E-flite Apprentice S 15e RTF with SAFE User Manual
Apprentice® S 15e
Instruction Manual
Bedienungsanleitung
Manuel d’Utilisation
Manuale di Istruzioni
EN
NOTICE
All instructions, warranties and other collateral documents are subject to change at the sole discretion of Horizon Hobby LLC. For up-to-date product
literature, visit www.horizonhobby.com and click on the support tab for this product.
The following terms are used throughout the product literature to indicate various levels of potential harm when operating this product:
NOTICE: Procedures, which if not properly followed, create a possibility of physical property damage AND little or no possibility of injury.
CAUTION: Procedures, which if not properly followed, create the probability of physical property damage AND a possibility of serious injury.
WARNING: Procedures, which if not properly followed, create the probability of property damage, collateral damage, and serious injury OR create a high
probability of superficial injury.
WARNING: Read the ENTIRE instruction manual to become familiar with the features of the product before operating. Failure to operate the product
correctly can result in damage to the product, personal property and cause serious injury.
This is a sophisticated hobby product. It must be operated with caution and common sense and requires some basic mechanical ability. Failure to operate this
Product in a safe and responsible manner could result in injury or damage to the product or other property. This product is not intended for use by children
without direct adult supervision. Do not use with incompatible components or alter this product in any way outside of the instructions provided by Horizon Hobby
LLC. This manual contains instructions for safety, operation and maintenance. It is essential to read and follow all the instructions and warnings in the manual,
prior to assembly, setup or use, in order to operate correctly and avoid damage or serious injury.
Age Recommendation: Not for children under 14 years. This is not a toy.
Safety Precautions and Warnings
As the user of this product, you are solely responsible for operating in a manner
that does not endanger yourself and others or result in damage to the product
or the property of others.
• Always keep a safe distance in all directions around your model to avoid
collisions or injury. This model is controlled by a radio signal subject to
interference from many sources outside your control. Interference can cause
momentary loss of control.
• Always operate your model in open spaces away from full-size vehicles,
traffic and people.
• Always carefully follow the directions and warnings for this and any optional
support equipment (chargers, rechargeable battery packs, etc.).
• Always keep all chemicals, small parts and anything electrical out of the
reach of children.
• Always avoid water exposure to all equipment not specifically designed and
protected for this purpose. Moisture causes damage to electronics.
Meaning of Special Language:
• Never place any portion of the model in your mouth as it could cause serious
injury or even death.
• Never operate your model with low transmitter batteries.
• Always keep aircraft in sight and under control.
• Always use fully charged batteries.
• Always keep transmitter powered on while aircraft is powered.
• Always remove batteries before disassembly.
• Always keep moving parts clean.
• Always keep parts dry.
• Always let parts cool after use before touching.
• Always remove batteries after use.
• Always ensure failsafe is properly set before flying.
• Never operate aircraft with damaged wiring.
• Never touch moving parts.
Charging Warnings
The Battery Charger included with your aircraft is designed to safely balance and charge the Li-Po battery.
CAUTION: All instructions and warnings must be followed exactly. Mishandling of Li-Po batteries can result in a fire, personal injury, and/or property damage.
• NEVER LEAVE THE POWER SUPPLY, CHARGER AND BATTERY
UNATTENDED DURING USE.
• NEVER CHARGE BATTERIES OVERNIGHT.
• By handling, charging or using the included Li-Po battery, you assume all
risks associated with lithium batteries.
• If at any time the battery begins to balloon or swell, discontinue use
immediately. If charging or discharging, discontinue and disconnect.
Continuing to use, charge or discharge a battery that is ballooning or
swelling can result in fire.
• Always store the battery at room temperature in a dry area for best results.
• Always transport or temporarily store the battery in a temperature range of
40–120º F (5–49º C). Do not store battery or aircraft in a car or direct sunlight.
If stored in a hot car, the battery can be damaged or even catch fire.
• Always charge batteries away from flammable materials.
• Always inspect the battery before charging and never charge damaged batteries.
• Always disconnect the battery after charging, and let the charger cool
between charges.
2
• Always constantly monitor the temperature of the battery pack while
charging.
• ONLY USE A CHARGER SPECIFICALLY DESIGNED TO CHARGE LI-PO
BATTERIES. Failure to charge the battery with a compatible charger may
cause fire resulting in personal injury and/or property damage.
• Never discharge Li-Po cells to below 3V under load.
• Never cover warning labels with hook and loop strips.
• Never leave charging batteries unattended.
• Never charge batteries outside recommended levels.
• Never attempt to dismantle or alter the charger.
• Never allow minors to charge battery packs.
• Never charge batteries in extremely hot or cold places (recommended
between 40–120° F or 5–49° C) or place in direct sunlight.
EN
Introduction
Congratulations on choosing the E-flite® Apprentice® S 15e airplane. Within
your grasp is the most intelligent RC airplane ever offered by Horizon
Hobby. Based on the renowned original Apprentice model, at its heart is
groundbreaking SAFE™ (Sensor Assisted Flight Envelope) technology that
makes learning to fly RC easier than ever and more fun for the experienced
pilot too. That’s because SAFE technology makes the complexity of model
aircraft spatial awareness possible so that you get the innovative benefit of
flight envelope protection, smooth flight performance and more.
Multiple levels of flight envelope protection allow you to reduce or remove
assistance features from the transmitter instantly so your skills can progress
more quickly. In addition, a “panic” feature is always ready to instantly return
your model to level flight if you ever loose orientation.
Box Contents
Includes
Patented Z-Foam™ construction of the Apprentice S offers durability beyond
comparison. SpektrumTM DSMX® radio technology means that you get the
assurance of an interference-free 2.4GHz signal for industry-leading command.
Because great control is more fun with power, count on the installed E-flite
electronics and power system to deliver crisp response of your transmitter
commands, and the performance to make it more fun.
All you have to do next is read and apply the information presented in this
instruction manual. Once you’ve learned the basics of RC flight, feel free to
enjoy this aircraft to learn more advanced maneuvers. You can also consider
flying from a lake or pond by installing the optional Apprentice S Float Set
(EFLA550), available separately.
To register your product online, visit www.e-fliterc.com
Table of Contents
Charging the Flight Battery ........................................................................4
Landing Gear Installation ...........................................................................5
Tail Installation ...........................................................................................5
Wing Installation ........................................................................................6
Sensor Assisted Flight Envelope (SAFE) Technology ....................................7
Transmitter ................................................................................................ 9
Transmitter and Receiver Binding .............................................................10
Flight Battery Installation, SAFE system/ESC Arming ................................11
LVC (Low Voltage Cutoff) ..........................................................................11
Control Horn and Servo Arm Settings ......................................................12
Center of Gravity (CG) Verification ............................................................12
Control Direction Test ...............................................................................13
Flight Control ...........................................................................................14
Flight Training .......................................................................................... 15
Flight Trimming ........................................................................................ 16
Range Check ...........................................................................................17
Flying Tips ...............................................................................................17
Takeoff ....................................................................................................18
Flying ......................................................................................................19
Landing ...................................................................................................19
Post Flight................................................................................................20
Service and Repairs .................................................................................20
Service of Power Components .................................................................21
Propeller Maintenance .............................................................................21
Water Takeoff and Landing Using the Optional Float Set ...........................22
Receiver Setup ........................................................................................22
Optional Transmitter Setup .......................................................................23
Buddy Box Setup .....................................................................................23
AMA National Model Aircraft Safety Code .................................................24
Troubleshooting Guide for SAFE Technology ............................................. 25
Troubleshooting Guide .............................................................................26
Limited Warranty .....................................................................................27
Contact Information .................................................................................28
FCC Information .......................................................................................28
Compliance Information for the European Union .......................................28
Parts Contact Information ......................................................................107
Replacement Parts .................................................................................108
Optional Parts ........................................................................................108
Specifications
840Kv Brushless Outrunner (EFLM7215) Installed Installed
30-Amp Pro Switch-Mode BEC Brushless
ESC (V2) (EFLA1030B)
13 g Digital Micro Servo (EFLR7155) and
37 g Standard Servo (EFLR7150)
Apprentice S (SAFE RX) (EFLR310013) Installed Installed
3S 3200mAh Li-Po battery (EFLB32003S) Included Included
DC powered 2S–3S balancing fast charger (EFLC3010)
Spektrum DX5e with batteries (SPMR5510,
SPMR55101 (MD1))
42.5 inches (1080mm)
59.0 inches (1500mm)
Installed Installed
Installed Installed
Included Included
Included
Needed to
Complete
49.0 oz
(1390 g)
515 in²
(33.2 dm²)
3
EN
Charging the Flight Battery
Your Apprentice S trainer comes with a DC balancing charger and 3S Li-Po
battery. You must charge the included Li-Po battery pack with a Li-Po specific
charger only (such as the included charger). Never leave the battery and charger
unattended during the charge process. Failure to follow the instructions properly
could result in a fire. When charging, ensure the battery is on a heat-resistant
surface. Charge the battery pack while you are assembling the aircraft. You will
need the flight battery to confirm proper aircraft operation in future steps.
DC Li-Po Balancing Charger Features
• Charges2-to3-celllithiumpolymerbatterypacks
• Variablechargeratesfrom500mAhto3-amp
• Simplesinglepush-buttonoperation
• LEDchargestatusindicator
• LEDcellbalanceindicator
• Audiblebeeperindicatespowerandchargestatus
• AlligatorClipinputcord
Specifications
• Inputpower:10.5–15.0VDC,3-amp
• Charges2-to3-cellLi-Popackswithminimum
capacity of 500mAh
3S 11.1V 3200mAh Li-Po Battery Pack
The E-flite® 3S Li-Po battery pack features a balancing lead that
allows you to safely charge your battery pack when used with the
included E-flite Li-Po balancing charger.
CAUTION: The balance connector must be inserted into the correct
port of your charger prior to charging.
The Battery Charging Process
1. Charge only batteries that are cool to the touch and are not damaged. Look at the battery to make sure it is not damaged e.g., swollen, bent, broken
or punctured.
2. Attach the input cord of the charger to the appropriate power supply (12V accessory outlet).
3. When the Li-Po charger has been correctly powered up, there will be an approximate 3-second delay, then an audible “beep” and the green (ready) LED
will flash.
4. Turn the control on the Amps selector so the arrow points to the charging rate required for the battery (the 3200mAh Li-Po battery will charge at 3.0
amps). DO NOT change the charge rate once the battery begins charging.
5. Move the cell selector switch to 3-cell for your battery.
6. Connect the balancing lead of the battery to the 3-cell (4 pin) charger port and press the Start button to begin battery charging.
7. The green and red LEDs may flash during the charging process when the charger is balancing cells. Balancing prolongs the life of the battery.
8. When the battery is fully charged, a beep will sound for about 3 seconds and the green LED will shine continuously. Attempting to charge an over-
discharged battery will cause the charger to repeatedly flash and beep, indicating an error has occurred.
9. Always unplug the battery from the charger immediately upon completion of charging.
CAUTION: Overcharging a battery can cause a fire.
CAUTION: Only use a charger specifically designed to charge a Li-Po battery. Failure to do so could result in fire causing injury or property damage.
CAUTION: Never exceed the recommended charge rate.
NOTICE: If using a battery other than the included Li-Po battery, refer to your battery manufacturer’s instructions for charging.
4
EN
Landing Gear Installation
1. Remove the spinner, nut, washer, spinner back plate and propeller
assembly (A). Remove 3 screws (B) and the cowling (C) from the
fuselage (D). Tools are required to loosen the nut and screws.
2. Turn the model so you can see the bottom of the fuselage.
3. Under the fuselage, loosen the screw (E) in the nose gear steering arm
and insert the strut (F) (flat spot facing to the front) fully in the mount (G).
D
C
B
A
4. Fully tighten the screw onto the flat spot of the strut.
5. Push together the main landing gear struts (H) and insert the top loop into
the slot in the fuselage as shown.
6. Reinstall the cowling, propeller and spinner.
Disassemble in reverse order.
TIP
Carefully support the aircraft while installing or removing screws.
Tail Installation
1. Install the horizontal tail (A) on the fuselage under the linkages as shown.
H
E
F
G
C
2. Carefully insert the 2 pins (B) of the vertical fin (C) through the horizontal
tail holes into the fuselage holes.
3. Under the fuselage, install the 2 screws (D) into the fuselage and the
vertical fin pins. Tighten the screws, but do not break the plastic.
4. Connect the respective clevises in the outermost holes in the rudder
and elevator control horns. Refer to the clevis adjustment instructions to
center the rudder and elevators.
Disassemble in reverse order.
B
A
D
5
EN
Wing Installation
1. Carefully apply the 2 strips of double-stick tape (A) to the root of the wing
as shown. Assemble the wings on the carbon wing tube (B) so there is no
gap. No epoxy is required to hold the wings together; however, if desired,
epoxy may be used (instead of the tape) to adhere the wings to each
other on the wing tube.
2. Ensure the wings are correctly aligned. Using double stick tape, install
the front (C) and rear (D) wing covers in their respective slots on the wing
as shown.
A
B
D
3. Connect the right and left aileron servo arms to the respective control
horns by using the included linkages and clevises in the outermost holes.
Refer to the clevis adjustment instructions to center the ailerons.
4. Ensure the 2 DIP switches (E) on the receiver (F) are in the OFF position,
or the included DX5e transmitter (with 3 position ch 5 switch) and
SAFE technology will not operate as described. Refer to the Receiver
Setup Instructions in this manual if using a transmitter with a 2-position
Channel 5 switch.
5. Connect the aileron servo connectors to the included Y-harness (G) in
the fuselage. The left and right servos can be connected to either side of
the Y-harness. Ensure the Y-harness is connected to the AILE port of the
receiver.
6. Install the wing on the fuselage.
CAUTION: DO NOT crush or otherwise damage the wiring when attaching
the wing to the fuselage.
7. Install 8 rubber bands (H) on the front and back rods to
complete the installation.
Disassemble in reverse order.
C
F
E
IMPORTANT: The rubber bands prevent wing damage from impact. Always
replace worn or broken rubber bands.
We recommend removing the wing from the fuselage for transport and storage
of your model.
Before each flight, ensure the wing is centered, straight and secure on the
fuselage.
TIP
Ensure the caps are secure on the ends of the rods. If needed, apply CA
(cyanoacrylate adhesive) to secure a cap on the rod.
6
G
H
EN
Sensor Assisted Flight Envelope (SAFE) Technology
Sensor Assisted Flight Envelope (SAFE) Technology
SAFE technology is a revolutionary flight training system designed to
give you a stable platform for safely developing your flying skills. This is
not an autopilot or self-guiding robot. The sensors and software in this
system help you fly the aircraft where you want to go while decreasing the
risk of an out-of-control crash. You can progress through the Beginner,
Intermediate and Experienced flight modes as your skills increase, all with
the confidence of an optional Panic recovery mode. At any time during a
flight you can switch between the 3 flight modes or use Panic recovery to
get your aircraft to a safe flying attitude.
SAFE Flight Modes
Beginner Mode
RollPitch
• Envelope limit: Pitch (nose up and down) and Roll (wing tips up and
down) angles are limited to help you keep the aircraft airborne
• Self-leveling: when the pitch and roll controls are returned to neutral,
the aircraft returns to level flight
• Stability assisted takeoff and landing
• Throttle based climb and descent
Panic Recovery
• Immediate recovery to a safe flying attitude
• Return all transmitter controls to neutral for the quickest recovery
• This mode is intended to provide the pilot with the confidence to
continue to improve their flight skills
1. Pilot loses control of the aircraft
1
in any flight mode.
2. Pilot pulls and holds the Panic
2
Recovery switch and returns all
other controls to their neutral
position. The aircraft will roll
wings level and pull out of a
dive...
Intermediate Mode
RollPitch
• Natural Flight Experience: In normal training flight conditions, the pilot
experiences natural AS3X® flight for smooth handling and outstanding
precision
• Large Flight Envelope: The pilot is only prevented from entering extreme
flight conditions outside the training flight envelope
Experienced Mode
RollPitch
• Natural Flight Experience: The pilot experiences natural AS3X flight for
smooth handling and outstanding precision
• Unlimited Flight Envelope: No limit on Pitch and Roll angles (airframe limited)
3. ...once the aircraft is flying
3
straight and level, the pilot
releases the Panic Recovery
switch and continues a gentle
climb to a safe altitude.
IMPORTANT: Aircraft will recover to a safer attitude even if sticks are held.
Some control input is still used with panic activated.
®
AS3X
Horizon Hobby has always made RC sport, scale and unique aircraft with
the kind of performance experts appreciate. Now the exclusive Artificial
Stability 3 axis (AS3X) system helps take performance expectations in
aircraft a quantum leap higher. Based on the successful use of MEMS
sensor technology within the AS3X Stabilization System essential to Blade®
ultra micro flybarless helicopters, the specifically tuned AS3X System for
airplanes helps invisibly correct for turbulence, torque and tip stalls when
encountered. Furthermore, the outstanding control agility delivers an ultra
smooth, locked-in feel that obeys your every command with performance
that’s natural feeling. It’s so gratifying, in fact, that it’s as though you’re
the RC pilot of an expertly tuned, giant-scale aircraft. AS3X will change the
way you’ll want to fly now and in the future. To see what we mean, go to
www.E-fliteRC.com/AS3X.
technology
7
EN
Sensor Assisted Flight Envelope (SAFE) Technology
You control the help SAFE™ technology provides while you learn to fly.
As your flying skills grow, decrease SAFE technology assistance. Change
aircraft response at any time by moving the Channel 5 (SAFE Flight mode)
switch on your transmitter.
IMPORTANT: These instructions are for the included DX5e transmitter
(or similar transmitters) with a 3-position switch for Channel 5. If you fly this
aircraft with a Spektrum transmitter other than the included DX5e, refer to
Optional Transmitter Setup and Receiver Setup.
SAFE Flight Modes Channel 5 Switch Position
Beginner Mode Position 0
Intermediate Mode Position 1
Experienced Mode Position 2
Trainer/ Panic Switch
Channel 5 Switch
(SAFE Flight Mode)
Back
1
2
0
Front
OFF
Back
Front
ON
Activating SAFE Technology
SAFE technology is not active until you advance the throttle past 25%.
Once the SAFE technology is active, the control surfaces may move on the
aircraft. This is normal. The SAFE technology will remain active until the ESC
is turned off.
Understanding Oscillation
In some flight conditions, you may see oscillation. If oscillation
occurs, decrease the airspeed. If oscillation still persists, refer to the
Troubleshooting Guide for more information.
CAUTION: Flying in level forward flight and calm wind conditions
at full throttle in any mode or long high-speed dives may result in strong
oscillation that can damage the aircraft.
If there is oscillation in any mode, decrease throttle immediately. If
oscillation persists, refer to the Troubleshooting Guide.
CAUTION: Beginner, Intermediate, and Panic modes are intended
for the training environment. Flying continuous high-G maneuvers (such
as loops) in Experienced mode for an extended period of time may lead to
inconsistent flight envelope and Panic mode behavior. If this occurs, land in
Experienced mode and power cycle the receiver before flying again.
Panic Recovery Mode
If you get into distress while flying in any mode, pull and hold the Trainer
(Panic) Switch and move the control sticks to their neutral position. The
SAFE technology will return the aircraft to a stable attitude, if the aircraft is
at a sufficient height with no obstacles in its path. Release the Panic Switch
to turn off Panic mode and return the current SAFE flight mode. If you get
into trouble and need to go back to Beginner mode for maximum stability,
remember to fully move back the Channel 5 switch.
SAFE Technology makes this aircraft a better learning tool,
but you must set yourself up for success in flying:
•SAFE technology is designed as flight assistance, not an autopilot. The pilot
is always in control and required to fly the aircraft at all times
•Follow the instructions provided in this manual to maintain your aircraft in
top flying condition
•Seek qualified model flying instruction through your local model flying club. A
qualified flight instructor can propel your advancement in this hobby
•Wind and environment can affect SAFE technology flight performance
•Ensure you have no distractions so you benefit from every moment of flight time
•You must still fly the aircraft away from obstacles and at an altitude that will
allow for a safe recovery
SAFE
Landing
SAFE
Take Off
Launch and Landing Assistance
Take off and landings can be better managed by using the Beginner mode.
If the model is launched incorrectly, or is landing at a less than perfect
attitude, pull and hold the Panic Switch. The model can correct and help to
prevent a crash.
See the Take Off and Landing sections in this manual.
IMPORTANT: A level runway is required for takeoffs in Beginner mode due
to throttle climb assistance.
Failsafe
In the unlikely loss of radio connection, failsafe will turn the aircraft in a
descending circle to the ground, unless the radio connection is restored.
8
EN
Transmitter
Installing the Transmitter Batteries
Your Spektrum DX5e comes prebound to
the aircraft.
Remove the battery cover, install the four included batteries
(noting proper polarity) and reinstall the
battery cover.
Low Battery Alarm
When the battery voltage drops below 4.7 volts, an alarm
sounds and the voltage LEDs flash. The batteries must be
replaced immediately. If this happens while flying, land
your aircraft as soon and as safely as possible.
CAUTION: If using rechargeable batteries, charge
only rechargeable batteries. Charging non-rechargeable
batteries may cause the batteries to burst, resulting in
injury to persons and/or damage to property.
Understanding the Controls of the Transmitter
KEY
Antenna
A
Trainer/Bind/Panic Switch
B
(CH 5) SAFE Flight Mode
C
LEDs
D
Left Control Stick
E
Trim button (for Up-down on stick)
F
Trim button (for Left-right on stick)
G
Power Switch (ON/OFF)
H
Servo Reverse Switches
I
Hi/Lo Rate Switch
J
Right Control Stick
K
Trim button (for Up-down on stick)
L
Neck Strap Connection
M
Trim button (for Left-right on stick)
N
Handle
O
Trainer Port
P
Battery Cover
Q
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
Turn
the antenna tip
to point away from the
model and the ground.
Signals transmit strongest
perpendicular from the
antenna shaft, not
the tip.
A
Mode 2
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
C
J
Mode 1
B
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