Description
Drivers and pilots enjoy even more Smart advantages when using Spektrum™ Smart G2 30C LiPo batteries. New "Generation 2" features make these powerful LiPo packs even simpler and safer to use together with your Smart charger.
For example, Spektrum™ Smart G2 technology makes it much easier to balance charge your LiPo batteries. Balancing information travels through the unique data wire of each Smart G2 battery's innovative IC3® or IC5® connector. As a result, only a single connection is needed — no separate balance lead is required.
Smart G2 batteries come from the factory programmed to discharge automatically to a safe storage voltage of 3.90V after 72 hours of inactivity. The benefits include longer battery life, better performance over the life of the pack, and the peace of mind that comes from knowing your Smart battery is maintenance-free. You can change the battery's Auto Storage settings based on your own preferences. G2 batteries also offer a storage discharge rate that's three times faster than the previous G1 Smart batteries.
Smart G2 30C soft-case LiPo packs also include thicker internal metal side plates. These plates improve heat dissipation and provide more protection for the cells against punctures during rough landings or in similar impact-prone situations.
As with other Smart batteries, you'll never have to set your own charging preferences for a Spektrum™ Smart G2 battery until you want to. When a Smart G2 LiPo battery is connected to a Spektrum™ Smart charger, its unique charging parameters and health information upload to the charger from the battery's integrated memory microchip. Through the charger you can view and set preferences such as charge rates, so all that's required to charge the pack is connecting it to your Smart charger. Smart technology takes care of the rest.
Spektrum™ Smart G2 30C LiPo batteries store a wide variety of essential information, including:
- Battery Brand
- Battery Type
- Battery Capacity
- Battery C Rating
- Individual Cell Voltage
- Battery Temperature
- Charge/Discharge Cycles
Spektrum™ Smart G2 LiPo 30C batteries also maintain an error log including the number of over-heat, over-discharge and over-charge incidents. This data can be helpful in assuring that the battery you've chosen is right for the application. Innovative Spektrum™ Smart G2 LiPo 30C batteries are so easy to use, they nearly take care of themselves. It's easy to achieve peak battery performance, reliability and longevity with Smart G2 technology!
Note: G2 batteries require the use of a Spektrum™ G2 Smart Charger or earlier Smart Charger with G2 update (available at spektrumrc.com).
Features
- Simpler and safer to use
- Balance charge through the IC3® or IC5® connector data wire — with only one connection, no balance lead required
- Faster Auto Discharge at up to 1.5A to safe storage voltage for long battery life and improved performance
- Thicker internal metal side plates protect cells and improve heat dissipation
- Integrated microchip stores unique parameters for each battery
- IC3® and IC5® connectors are also compatible with EC3™ and EC5™ styles
- Spektrum™ G2 Smart Charger required (or earlier Smart Charger with G2 update, available at spektrumrc.com)
Smart Battery Technology — One Smart Connection
When connected to a Spektrum™ Smart charger, a Smart G2 battery's unique parameters, health, and balancing information upload automatically from its memory microchip through the IC3® or IC5® connector's data wire. To charge and balance the pack, you simply connect it to your Smart charger. Safe charging begins automatically, and no separate balance lead is needed.
Data Rich
An integrated microchip allows each Smart G2 battery to save vital information such as battery brand, chemistry, cell count, capacity, number of charging cycles, number of discharges, C rating, battery temperature, and internal resistance. Additionally, each battery will save a log of unhealthy events such as over-charge, over-discharge, and over-temperature. This allows you to make the most informed decision about each battery when you are getting your gear ready to go out and have fun.
Smart Auto Storage Discharge
Spektrum™ Smart G2 batteries practically take care of themselves. G2 batteries come from the factory programmed to automatically discharge to a safe storage voltage of 3.90V after 72 hours of inactivity. The results are longer battery life, better performance over the life of the pack and peace of mind that your Smart battery comes maintenance-free. The battery's Auto Storage settings can be changed by the user based on preferences.
Simple and Quick
Preset charge, discharge, and storage parameters are automatically relayed from your Spektrum™ Smart G2 battery to your Smart charger, making charging as simple as plugging in the pack. Charge rate of individual batteries can also be user-customized, allowing you to take full advantage of packs with faster charge ratings. The battery's integrated microchip remembers the last charging rate you set, so the next time you plug it in, these settings will automatically take effect.
IC3® and IC5® Connectors
The innovative Smart connection is made possible by a microchip installed in every battery, which feeds the battery's unique information through a data cable to its IC connector. Spektrum™ Smart IC3® and IC5® connectors have been designed from the ground up to provide a more solid connection, higher heat resistance, and effortless installation. IC connectors are also backwards compatible with EC connectors so you can use Smart batteries with older systems. Smart G2 batteries can be charged only with Smart chargers.
General frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Do you sell gift vouchers?
Yes! You can buy gift vouchers from £10 through to £1500 from our Gift vouchers page.
These can be delivered either via email or on a printed card in an envelope at your preference.
Is model rocketry legal in the UK?
My rocket won't launch what could be wrong?
Ignition problems can be frustrating but they usually turn out to be one of just a few things! It's always worth having some spare igniters, you can buy some on our Starters & Igniters page.
1) Your batteries may not have enough power, or not be able to supply enough power. We ship and sell Duracell Procell Intense batteries as these are designed to supply lots of current when needed. You can find these in the Batteries & Chargers page.
2) Check your batteries are secure, it's possible your battery springs may have been compressed if the batteries rattle preventing a good connection. Take out the batteries and stretch out the springs before re-installing.
3) You may have a short circuit on the igniter. Check that your launch controller clips or igniter wires are not touching each other. The Estes igniters can sometimes get the wires squeezed together when you install them in the engine with the plug. Ensure the plug is put in with the wires apart. It's also worth noting that if the clips are touching the blast plate then this will also short out your circuit.
4) Check for lots of residue on the clips. This could prevent a good connection to your igniter. If this is the case clean them with some fine sandpaper or steel wool.
5) If your igniter has burnt when you remove it then you may not have pushed the igniter all the way in to the motor. Make sure igniters are all the way into your motor and with higher power motors follow the instructions carefully.
6) You may have failed to put the safety key into the launch controller correctly, or forgotten to do so. It's rare but it can happen during the business of launch time.
7) You could have been very unlucky with a motor or igniter. Try another motor and igniter to see if your launch controller is OK and this was the case.
8) You could have a faulty launch controller. A multi meter could be connected to the clips to measure the current flowing. It should show a good few whole amps when the launch button is pressed. Any lower would suggest bad batteries, or none at all a bad controller. If in doubt please contact us for assistance if you've got this far on the checklist!
You may wish to buy a upgraded launch controller too if you want to be extra sure of great launches! The Klima launch controller can take two 9v batteries which gives it plenty of juice! If you want to stand a bit further back the Estes Pro launch controller or E launch controller have longer leads. Check out our Launch controllers page for more information.
What age is suitable for model rocketry?
Model rocketry when done safely and correctly is great at all ages. Of course you will want to apply some adult supervision for very young children.
Most rocket manufacturers suggest adult supervision under 10 or 12 years old.
Of course not all rockets and motors are the same and higher power motors may warrant waiting to be even older to fly without supervision.
A and B motors are great starter motors so it may be worth picking starter sets or rockets and motors in this category for younger children.
Regardless of the age using of rocket motors you need to be at least 18 years old to purchase and store any rocket motors in the UK.
We suggest parental guidance is the key when deciding what age and what level of supervision is required for your children. Ensure your children read and know all the safety information included with the rockets and motors before flying.
How soon will I receive my order?
We aim to ship all orders within 1 working day and it's rare we miss that target. If you order by 10am then your order will usually ship the same day although sometimes the odd order will ship the following day depending on how early our couriers collect and how busy we are. You can find more details on our delivery policy here: Our delivery terms & conditions.
What do I need to build and launch a model rocket?
Model rockets typically need the following pieces of the puzzle to launch. At least until you get to more complicated and higher power options.
1) A model rocket kit.
2) A launch pad.
3) A launch controller and batteries.
4) Model rocket motors for your rocket.
5) Recovery wadding for every launch.
Model rockets require different skills to construct with some being ready to fly or almost ready to fly. And others that will need construction with glue, some tools and paint. More details of what you require to complete your rocket should be in the description on each listing. We also include instructions manuals for rockets where possible which will also detail everything you need. If in doubt just drop us an email and we can assist you!
We do have some construction packs that you can find here: Rocket building supplies (set A)
How should I store my rocket motors?
Rocket motors life expectancy will vary greatly depending on how you store your motors.
In general you want to think of somewhere much like your living room in your house. A fairly constant temperature, not too dry nor too damp or too warm or too cold. And while that may sound like I've described every possibility do try to avoid cold damp places or extremely warm dry places. It's probably not wise to store them in the airing cupboard or in a damp outbuilding for example! You especially don't want to expose your motors to freezing temperatures or areas where condensation is apparent.
Security of your motors is also a concern. You want to ensure you keep your motors away from metal, electricity supplies and other flammable and hazardous goods. You also want to ensure they are secured against theft or the risk of children accessing them with big ideas and no adult supervision.
A dedicated storage box made of wood or strong cardboard is a great option for storing your motors in. But ensure you don't store anything else with your motors, keep only motors in this storage container.
Can I come and visit you?
Yes, we'd love to see you. You can visit our warehouse in Millom, Cumbria. It does operate on a trade counter method from one store room, but we can bring you any item you'd like to have a look at should it not be in this area.
We are usually open from 9:30am until 4:00pm Monday to Friday but please contact us if you can't make those times and we may be able to accommodate your visit outside of these hours.
You can find our location details on the contact us page.
How can I get into rocketry? Can anyone do it?
The simple answer is Yes. Anyone can take part in model rocketry.
To fly safely you can attend a rocketry club to fly, or you can fly from home or land where you have permission to fly. There may be rules near airports that limit you maximum altitude although many starter sets do fly below these altitude limits. There is more information on this page about rocketry in the UK.
Regardless of your experience in rocketry or modelling in general you can get cracking with model rocketry. We have rockets for all skill levels and a selection of great starter sets that include everything except the glues & tools you may or may not need to get flying. (Some rockets are Ready to fly or extremely easy to assemble without glue for example).
Ready to fly starter sets.
Easy to build starter sets.
If you're limited on launch space then the starter sets with A size motors won't go terrifyingly high! If you have a bit more space or want something a bit more powerful then B motor starter sets are a great place to start. The included motors are listed on each product. You can also buy larger motors for your rockets too! All our A and B motor starter sets can take A, B and C motors. You can even go crazy and grab a Klima D9 motors for many of these rockets. Each time you advance a letter you double your total impulse of your motor. So a B motor is twice the power of an A, and a C motor is 4 times the power of an A motor for example.
We will only sell rocket motors or kits with rocket motors to people who are 18 or older. However model rocketry is great much younger than this! Most manufacturers suggest an age of 12+ for starter sets, and younger than this is still OK with adult supervision.
Model rocketry can grow with you regardless of your age with much higher power and advanced models possible in the UK perfectly legally. Please contact us for advice if you would like some and we'll be happy to assist you!
How much space do I need to launch my rockets?
The UK Rocketry association suggests the following sizes depending on your rocket motor size.
The table below lists the minimum site dimensions for each motor impulse class. The distances stated are the diameter of a circle centred at the location of the launch pad. The rocket flight should be planned such that all reasonable steps are taken to ensure that the rocket lands and may be recovered in this area.
For flights with increased safety considerations, the next largest distance must be used after the row associated with the Total Impulse. Examples of such flights where these considerations come into play are:
- The flight involves a boosted glider or winged recovery.
- The flight is considered Research or Experimental.
The site minimum dimension should be the maximum of:
- The distance from the table below, noting the previous statement regarding special
flights.
- Half the maximum expected flight altitude of any Rocket to be flown.
Total Impulse (equivalent Impulse Class) | Minimum site dimensions (Metric) | Minimum site dimensions (Imperial) |
---|
Up to 2.5 Ns (A) | 30 metres | 98 feet / 33 yards |
2.5 - 5 Ns (B) | 60 metres | 197 feet / 66 yards |
5 - 10 Ns (C) | 120 metres | 394 feet / 130 yards |
10 - 20 Ns (D) | 150 metres | 492 feet / 164 yards |
20 - 40 Ns (E) | 300 metres | 984 feet / 328 yards |
40 - 80 Ns (F) | 300 metres | 984 feet / 328 yards |
80 - 160 Ns (G) | 300 metres | 984 feet / 328 yards |
160 - 320 Ns (H) | 450 metres | 1476 feet / 492 yards |
320 - 640 Ns (I) | 450 metres | 1476 feet / 492 yards |
640 - 1,280 Ns (J) | 450 metres | 1476 feet / 492 yards |
1,280 - 2,560 Ns (K) | 450 metres | 1476 feet / 492 yards |
2,560 - 5,120 Ns (L) | 450 metres | 1476 feet / 492 yards |
5,120 - 10,240 (M) | 450 metres | 1476 feet / 492 yards |
10,240 - 20,480 Ns (N) | 600 metres | 1968 feet / 656 yards |
20,480 - 40,960 (O) | 900 metres | 2952 feet / 984 yards |
My rocket has had an accident, how can I get spare parts?
What accessories can I add to my rocket?
Rocketry is a very scalable hobby that offers great learning and plenty of technology to enjoy. As such you can add many items from Altimeters, electronics, trackers, cameras and even flight computers to control your flight and stability.
Many people like to add a camera to their rocket. We do sell some options in our Video Camera category.
Altimeters are also incredibly popular, especially the Jolly Logic altimeters that we stock which you can find in the Altimeters section. If you are launching a higher power rocket you may like to check out the Jolly logic chute release.
The Electronics and Payloads category has many more upgrades and accessories. Although there's nothing to stop you popping over to our scratch building section to create your own rockets too!
Shipping, delivery & returns
Shipping your order.
Once you have paid for your order we will work to dispatch your items.
All items on our website shown as in stock, are in our warehouse ready to ship unless stated otherwise on the product page.
We aim to ship orders within 1 working day of ordering on your chosen shipping method.
We do not guarantee this however, especially at extremely busy times of the year. Therefore if you do require your order urgently, please drop us a email after you order to let us know.
Please note that you must use a courier option if your order contains rocket motors, you can not use the Royal Mail for orders with motors. The website should automatically disable the Royal Mail shipping option once these items are added to your cart. However in the case of a website mistake you will need to use the courier option.
Orders will ship on your chosen courier, all UK Mainland couriers we offer are a next day service. The couriers however do not offer us a guarantee on this, so we are unable to pass one along.
Over 95% of our orders do arrive next day as intended.
If you require Saturday delivery there is a Saturday delivery option on the checkout page. DHL do not offer Saturday delivery by default.
Delivery options.
We offer a variety of delivery options on the checkout page. We also off the option to pickup your order from our warehouse in Millom, Cumbria, LA18 4JS.
You can use the Royal Mail option for smaller items up to 2Kg in weight as long as they do not contain motors.
Please be aware if you require AM or Saturday delivery these orders may still take up to 1 working day to dispatch. We do, however, prioritise express orders for dispatch.
Returns.
Returns for any reason
We will accept returns on all products for 90 days from the date of delivery.
If an item was sent un-tracked the delivery date is agreed to be 2 (two) days after shipment.
Changed your mind or do not like the product?
You are required to cover the cost of returning the item to us, we can send you a pre-paid label to deduct from your refund if it is convenient or cost effective for you.
Items without rocket motors
£7
Items with rocket motors
£13
These prices cover up to 25Kg in weight, and if the order is larger multiple labels will be required. These prices are for UK collections only, please contact us if outside of the UK.
Returned items should be undamaged and in a good condition suitable to be sold again. They need to arrive with us in this condition.
You must package the item well so that damage does not occur in transit, although you do not need to use the original packaging.
Item was damaged, faulty or other reasons?
We are happy to cover the cost of returning a product that has arrived damaged or faulty within 90 days.
We will offer to replace the faulty or damaged item, or refund you in full at your preference.
In regards to missing parts of kits we reserve the right to replace the required parts rather than the entire kit.
Was your item customised, personalised or ordered in specially?
Custom items & special order items can not be returned for a refund as they are not sellable or may be hard to sell again.
If the item arrives damaged or faulty we will of course still offer a refund or replacement on custom orders.
My item has not arrived can I have a refund?
If your item has not been dispatched, yet then we can cancel your order and refund you in full. Except if this is a special order item that we are unable to cancel and have already ordered from the supplier.
If your item has been dispatched then we will need to investigate with our couriers before continuing with our refund process. This may take up to 14 working days to complete although is usually a far quicker process. We will always offer a full refund or replacement for lost items.
Your refund
Refunds will be processed within 3 working days of your item being returned to us.
If you paid by BACS we will require your bank details to send a repayment via BACS.
BACS payments should usually arrive in your account the same day, however please allow up to 5 working days.
If you paid by PayPal (Debit or Credit Card) the refund will usually be processed on to the payment method used to make the payment. This may take up to 7 working days to complete but is usually within 3-5 working days.
If you paid via credit or debit card the refund will usually be with you within 1-5 working days.
If you paid by cheque we are unable to process a refund by any method other than cheque and this will be posted 2 working days after your payment cleared at the earliest. (This is the final clearing date defined by the latest time period in which the cheque can be reversed, not the initial funds release date.)