The Ultimate RC Submarine Guide
Do you love exploring the waters, whether pools, ponds, rivers, or lakes? If you do, then you might benefit by getting yourself a remote control submarine. RC submarines are fascinating gadgets that can be used by both kids and adults, and they are bound to get you addicted once you start exploring the waters. Getting a remote-controlled submarine lets you spend an unlimited amount of time underwater. However, identifying and buying the best RC submarine is not always easy; you must keep in mind that you will find many brands in the market from different manufacturers. As a result, you need to make some considerations before making a purchase, and this article is here to help you do just that because it is a comprehensive RC submarine buyer’s guide.
Types of RC Submarines
If you have just thought of getting yourself the best RC submarine, you must know that there are different types of submarines in the market. As such, you must settle on a sub that will make your hobby more intriguing.
Additionally, you must keep in mind that there are a device and method of controlling your underwater submarine. The sub is controlled through radio signals, allowing you to have a seamless operation.
Here are the types of RC submarines.
1. Dynamic remote control submarine
The first type of an RC submarine is the dynamic remote control submarine; a device designed and constructed using simple diving technologies. This type of RC submarine utilizes the dive planes it is fitted with to run underwater.
You can make it move under the water surface by relying on the control surfaces. A dynamic remote control submarine requires a significant amount of thrust so that it can move underwater. When the speed reduces, the submarine stays afloat. One of the best things about dynamic RC submarines is that they are economically priced, mainly because they do not have complex buoyancy control systems.
Moreover, you have little to worry about this type of submarine. This is because, despite its simple build, this type of submarine returns to the water surface when you lose radio contact. However, you need to know that the required forward speed to push this type of submarines is quite slow because they have huge dive plane surfaces.
2. Static remote control submarine
The other type of RC submarine is the static remote control submarine. Its operation is more seamless than that of the dynamic remote control submarine because it immediately submerges into the water once you place it on the water surface. It is also able to stay afloat easily by forcing the water out of the ballast with compressed gas or a pump.
The ability of the static remote control submarine to force water out of the ballast allows it to alter its displacement. However, it could also rely on the inflatable bladder or a piston to do this.
Keep in mind that models of this type of remote control submarine vary. There are those that push the water out through compressed gas while there are others that use water pumps. As such, you will need to choose the one that best suits your needs. Moreover, they are a bit expensive compared to dynamic remote control submarines.
Here is a video describing how remote control submarines work.
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eV_mmzh_F3A]
Things and Features to Look Out For Before Purchasing an RC Submarine
When you are in the market looking for an RC submarine, there are core features on these devices that you have to asses to ensure that you are getting a product whose quality matches its value. Here are the considerations you must make.
Set a spending limit
One of the things that you have to ensure to do before hitting the market to purchase a remote control submarine is fixing a budget. You need to understand that manufacturers price their products differently, and there are those that have more specs than others do.
Those with more specs will most likely cost higher than those with limited features do. That is why it is imperative for you to conduct adequate market research to determine the price range of the remote control submarine you would like to get. You can then set a budget, which will see you get a quality product at an affordable price. The quality of the submarine goes hand in hand with its features.
The controller range
Besides reviewing its price, you also need to assess the controller range of the remote control submarine you intend to get yourself. You need to keep in mind that a remote control submarine relies on radio transmissions for operation. Therefore, the control range must be looked at. You don’t want to lose control of your submarine when you are at the peak of enjoying your hobby. You must review its controller range and be able to determine its performance below the water surface if you want seamless control.
The design
Another crucial feature to look out for in a submarine is its design. There are different types of submarines, and each is built differently. As such, it is imperative that you get yourself a submarine that has an ergonomic design. The ergonomic design mostly applies to its remote controller. The controller should be easy to hold, allowing you seamless operation under the water surface.
You should expect to find great designs in infrared-powered or battery-powered remote controls. Interestingly, you could also download the remote controls as a software. However, you must ensure that they are compatible with your device.
Batteries and indicators
Being remote control devices, these submarines are bound to have batteries. Most of them are fitted with either AAA or AA batteries. Before you make your pick, therefore, you must ensure that you get a device whose battery life is long and dependable. You also need to know that the fact that batteries operate remote-controlled submarines, they are bound to run out of charge when you are playing.
The indicators are also a crucial feature because they indicate the battery levels. Fortunately, most of the models designed today have LED lights that let you know when the power level of your RC submarine needs checking.
The number of motors
When you are looking to purchase a remote control submarine, it is imperative that you consider the number of motors it has. The more the motors a submarine has, the more convenient it is to operate. That is why you should consider getting a remote control submarine with two or three motors as opposed to one motor. However, when it is at high speeds, one motor can do the job effectively. However, if you or your kids play with the RC submarine a lot, you will need to get one with more than one motor.
Wrap up
Getting a remote control submarine could see you enjoy your days in the water like never before. However, you must consider factors such as those mentioned in this guide if you want to get the best RC submarine. You could get an RC submarine from online stores, retail stores, or manufacturers’ websites.