Many people may wonder about the difference between a computer-controlled (CCD) and an analog. The term ‘analog’ is relative, although both control systems do use electrical impulses to transmit information to the device. In the case of CCU’s, there is no mechanical way to transmit information to the device. Hence, we use the term ‘computer-controlled’ to describe a device that has been programmed in order to send signals to the device. It’s a means of controlling how the device behaves.
When one is referring to an analog, it is an indication of the signal that comes from the flight controller. So, an analog signal is like a digital signal in the sense that they have the same waveform. The difference is that they do not go through a resistor or capacitor when traveling through the air. Therefore, this is a great advantage for a flight controller, as it does not require any power. The controller only asks for the signal to be sent to the device to be read.
The flight controller connects to a current generator. So, the controller sends a signal into the current generator, which is in use to power the system.
Analog control is much like flight controllers in that it uses electrical signals to function. However, it doesn’t connect to a current generator. Instead, the controller utilizes signals that come from electronic logic gates, to generate the signals that it sends to the devices.
Differences Between Analog And Flight Controllers
The functions of an analog and flight controllers are very similar. Both control systems must send signals from the device to the controller in order to generate the control signals. Hence, if the controller doesn’t receive a signal, the device will not respond to the commands being sent to it.
One of the main differences between the two controllers is the design. While the flight controller is a more complex device, an analog is easier to program.
In the case of a flight controller, the control system connects to the engine’s throttle, which then sends a signal to the other control unit. The design of the throttle is to make the engine fly faster and higher, while the speed and pressure are calculated by the controller. It is the response of the engine that makes the controller move up or down on the plane.
For an analog controller, the process is a little different. The signal is brought about in a way that does not require a current generator. For an analog signal, they can use a transistor or diode to be the source of the signal. Also, there is no need for a current generator, as they can produce the signal through a resistor and capacitor.
More Differences
A flight controller is more complicated than an analog one. Thus, the device needs to be able to transmit signals without taking power from the battery. These signals will either be from the electronic keypad on the control panel, or they will be directly sent to the flight controller. The transmitter will be in the form of a radio signal, and the receiver will be in the form of an infrared tag. Either way, the flight controller will require an antenna.
As soon as the aircraft is airborne, the radio signal is sent to the transmitter. The signal given to the controller will consist of data such as altitude, time of flight, GPS coordinates, and the pilot’s time.
When he receives the information, the controller will then determine if the aircraft is above the horizon and has enough power to remain airborne. Furthermore, the controller will run some numbers and decide the best way to land the aircraft. This is the main difference between the two controllers.
The main advantage of the CCU is that it is more user-friendly. Hence, no matter the type of flight controller that you are using; there is always the option of plugging in the transmitter and having it to work with the flight controller. It’s also best to understand what type of system you are using. This is to ensure that you use the proper type of system for your needs.
