Controllers - General

RC models are highly responsive and agile aircraft. Precise, simultaneous control inputs across all axes: throttle, pitch, roll, yaw, are essential to keep the model flying accurately and safely. The controller you choose directly affects your experience.

RCE supports all input methods:

  • RC Transmitter-type USB controller - Recommended. Replicates real-world RC flying with two sticks, switches and knobs for additional channels. This is the closest experience to standing at a real RC field.
  • RC Transmitter via USB dongle - Highly recommended for experienced RC pilots. Connect your actual transmitter to the PC using a dedicated USB dongle, and fly RCE with your own real-world TX. VSKYLABS recommends this option but cannot guarantee or provide support for specific dongle and transmitter configurations.
  • Standard USB joystick - Usable, not ideal. A single stick and full scale rudder does not provide the simultaneous two-stick control that RC flying demands.
  • Keyboard - Functional for basic testing only. Not suitable for actual flying.
  • PlayStation / Xbox controller - Possible, not recommended. The sticks are shorter and less precise than RC transmitter sticks, lacking the analog refinement that RC flying demands. Additionally, all axes on these controllers are spring-centered - a fundamental mismatch for RC flying, where the throttle and collective axes must be non-spring-loaded to hold position naturally.

VSKYLABS is not affiliated with any controller manufacturer. The recommendation is simple: if you own an RC transmitter with a USB or trainer port, use it. If you are starting from scratch, an entry-level RC transmitter-type USB controller is an inexpensive investment that transforms the RCE experience.

Controllers and Options - TX Modes

RC transmitters use a "mode" system that defines how the two control sticks are mapped to the four primary flight axes. There are four modes in use worldwide, but Modes 1 and 2 are by far the most common.

Mode 1 (less popular):

  • LH stick: Elevator (U/D) and Rudder/Yaw (L/R)
  • RH stick: Throttle (U/D) and Ailerons (L/R)

Mode 2 (most popular - recommended):

  • LH stick: Throttle (U/D) and Rudder/Yaw (L/R)
  • RH stick: Elevator (U/D) and Ailerons (L/R)

VSKYLABS recommends Mode 2, as it is the most widely used configuration globally and the one all RCE documentation and examples refer to.

An important note: in both modes, the throttle axis has no centering spring. It holds position where you leave it, exactly like a real TX. Make sure your USB controller or dongle-connected transmitter matches your intended mode, including the correct non-spring-loaded throttle axis.

If you are already an RC pilot, fly the mode you know. Do not change modes for RCE.

Controllers and Options - Trim sliders:

RC TX transmitter-type controllers and real-world transmitters feature a trim slider for each axis. These trimmers set a new zero-point for each axis, within the total control throw.
  • Older RC transmitters often have analog trim sliders/levers beside the sticks. They physically offset the stick channel signal.
  • Newer radios usually use digital/clickable trims, where each trim changes stored trim value. 
In case of the older analog trim levers - setting back to zero-point is seamless. Simply slide the lever to the center, or to any desired direction. This will add slight throw to the controls and allows fine-trimming.

In case of the newer radios - digital trim position is shown on the TX screen (if it is equipped with a screen), or with other ques. If your TX controller does not have its own feedback system, a good practice is to go to the Joystick setup screen, and visually monitor the Joystick input bars. If you recognize an offset - simply 'blip' the trim in the opposite direction until coming back to the absolute center-point. 

Remember - if you use digital trim while flying, and your TX controller is not equipped with built-in feedback system, make sure that you set the trim back to zero, or to any desired position before your next flight, especially if you switch and aircraft.
Controllers and Options - Calibration

Before flying, calibrate your controller in X-Plane to ensure full and accurate axis travel. This is done in X-Plane Settings under the Joystick tab, using the Calibrate function.
  • If your TX controllers has analog trim-sliders (older generation RC type):
    During calibration, slide each trim to its extreme position while simultaneously moving the corresponding stick to its full travel. This ensures X-Plane registers the maximum possible throw for each axis. Once calibration is complete, return all trim sliders to center. Skipping this step may result in reduced control authority or asymmetric response - where the stick does not reach full deflection in X-Plane even when pushed to its physical limit.

  • If your TX controllers has digital trim-sliders:
    Axis response should be full regardless trim position.