THROTTLE CURVES

To the beginner, the idea of altering the factory settings on a new remote control helicopter may seem strange but if you  are serious about the hobby then you will need to get involved in the detail. For those just looking for a bit of fun then a less complicated, more stable, coaxial remote control helicopter would be a better choice. If you have opted for a
collective pitch model then be prepared for a steep learning curve.

When you see references to adjusting the throttle curve, what is meant is adjusting the feel of the throttle, ensuring that it is more responsive when you need it to be and stable at other times, such as in the hover.

The throttle curve basically sets a level of output for a particular stick position. If no alterations are made then you will get a 1:1 ratio. At a throttle position of 50% you will get output of 50%.

On more advanced transmitters you normally get to select up to 7 throttle / output settings. More experienced pilots usually change the settings to give a more “sensitive” response when spooling up the helicopter and reduce it as the helicopter transitions to a hover and then once the throttle is  moved to the 3/4 position the curve climbs steeply again.

Using this type of configuration means the helicopter will spool up quickly to reach a hover, settle down a bit in the hover and then accelerate faster as the throttle is increased.

As you can see getting a programmable transmitter is just as important as the helicopter itself