Radio controlled (R/C) vehicles are controlled with a wireless, hand-held transmitter which communicates with the vehicle through radio frequencies, providing the advantage of long-range control. The following provides information on their use. Just as a radio station broadcasts on a specific radio frequency, an R/C transmitter sends radio frequency signals that tell its vehicle how to perform. The signals are sent to the vehicle’s receiver on one of the frequencies designated for use in R/C toys.
In order for two R/C vehicles to be operated at one time and in the same area, the vehicles must operate on different frequencies. Our higher-end R/C vehicles come with a removable frequency band crystal that allows you to operate the vehicle on up to 6 different bands within the frequency, e.g., for competitive racing.
Our R/C vehicles are either Full Function or Multifunction. Full Function land and water vehicles have standard forward, reverse & stop features, and can make left and right turns in both forward & reverse. In addition to these capabilities, Multifunction R/C vehicles have features such as a Differential Gear for better traction, Trim Adjustment for enhanced steering, working headlights, etc.
Multifunction Aeroplanes can turn left and right, have engine cut off switches for powerless gliding, elevation (rudder) control, and so on.
The range of a vehicle is the area in which the R/C vehicle can receive the radio frequency signals from the vehicle’s transmitter. The range can be anywhere from 50 to over 1500 feet and varies from vehicle to vehicle. Planes have the greatest control range. The range of R/C boats is generally greater than that of R/C land vehicles; however, it is best to operate your boat within 100 feet of your transmitter to avoid having to retrieve it from the water.
Range can be affected by weak transmitter batteries or interference from other items that emit radio frequency signals such as another R/C item on the same frequency, CB radios, cordless phones, high voltage transformers, etc. For best results, hold the transmitter so that the antenna is directed straight up, rather than toward the vehicle, and operate the vehicle away from any likely source of interference.
The scale size, e.g., 1/16, indicates the size of the R/C vehicle in comparison to an actual vehicle of that type. The smaller the scale fraction, the smaller the size of the item. For example, a 1/16 scale is much smaller than a 1/10 scale vehicle.
R/C items have regular steering - one position for right turns and one position for left turns. The turning radius is always the same. Many of our higher-end items have digital proportional steering, which is similar to that of a real car. Digital steering is very precise and allows for sharp or wide turns. This sensitive steering system is necessary for larger, high-performance vehicles in order to prevent them from flipping over or losing control.
R/C items have different battery requirements based on their size, features and performance. Look for the battery requirements under the individual vehicle description to determine what batteries are required and whether they are included. Whereas some of our smaller R/C vehicles require AA batteries, most other vehicles come complete with a rechargeable Ni-Cd (nickel cadmium) battery pack, charger, and a 9v battery for the transmitter.
All battery packs must be charged before use Battery packs may be charged hundreds of times. However, if the battery is continually overcharged or if the battery is recharged before power is completely drained, the battery life may be shortened. It’s a good idea to have an extra battery pack on hand to increase playing time. Extra battery packs are available for purchase by special order.
Run time varies according to the type and age of the battery pack, the size of the vehicle, the performance level of the vehicle, and the playing conditions. The larger the vehicle, the shorter the run time. Some vehicles, | 
