At the request of several users, here is a detailed explanation of how GliderKeeper behaves under the different settings of the "Keeper Conf." menu. It shows how easy it is to configure this AMRT in the field.
From version 1.22 you can see your firmware and standard UI in the blue ribbon of all GliderKeeper pages. Depending on the firmware type, you will have more or less access to these settings.
Competition settings — these control how GliderKeeper manages your throttle.
- Training / ESC Setup — you have throttle control ALL THE TIME. Use it to calibrate your ESC, or for the very first flights of your model.
- FAI Mode — behaviour according to the FAI rules for "F5J – RC Electric Powered Thermal Duration Gliders". Per 5.5.11.1.3.h) ii, the motor is restricted to a single continuous run not exceeding 30 seconds: you control the throttle during the first 30 seconds, or until you retract it below the threshold; after that, GliderKeeper holds it at the value stored at power-up.
- Altitude Shut — GliderKeeper shuts the throttle upon reaching the stored altitude, 30 seconds, or a lever retract below the threshold, whichever comes first. The target altitude is set in metres.
- Time Shut — shuts the throttle upon reaching the stored number of seconds, or a lever retract, whichever comes first.
F5J height calculation — all of the above settings allow an F5J height calculation, most meaningful in FAI mode, but also useful for training and other competitions.
Enable emergency motor — applicable to FAI, Altitude and Time modes. If enabled, GliderKeeper returns throttle control to the pilot after 30 seconds of motor shut. Using the emergency motor deletes that flight's calculated F5J height and shows "—.-" (a zero score) — but it may save the airframe.
Important note: in strict compliance with FAI rules, this cancellation can happen even if a flight duration has been calculated, if the throttle lever is advanced. In competition, mind your throttle lever both for safety and for your score.
Show flight time on display — if muted, the flight time is not shown on the OLED screen.
Logging settings — these show when data logging starts. Always: on device initialization (important to track the "altimeter zero"). On motor: after the motor is started. On Altitude: after the chosen trigger altitude is exceeded.
GliderKeeper orientation — select Flat if it is mounted in the canopy or the bottom of the fuselage; deselect it if mounted on the side. The long dimension of GliderKeeper must be parallel to the flight direction.
Always tap "save" so the changes take effect at the next power-up.
Firmware types
- STD — all of the above options are available.
- FAI_F (First Class competitions) — only allows "Show Flight Time" and "Orientation"; the rest is fixed to: FAI mode, emergency motor disabled, logging Always.
- FAI_S (Second Class) — allows emergency motor, "Show Flight Time" and "Orientation"; the rest is fixed to: FAI mode, logging Always.
If the rules change or new developments recommend it, new firmware types may be published.
We hope you find these descriptions useful and that they help you get the most out of your GliderKeeper. The happiest landings!
