The RL-1 is a custom design that was developed to add certainty to the ignition process of launching model rockets. There are two modular devices connected by a standard 3.5mm, 3 conductor wire. Each modular device is described as TX and RX.
At the end of the 3-5 second period the circuit is disabled, making it safe to approach the launch pad (the BLUE LED in the RX unit turns off).
The external battery circuit was designed using a rechargeable 7.2 volt RC battery and a rechargeable 12 volt lead acid battery typically found in a uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS).
IMPORTANT
Safety Note: if using an external battery, do not reverse the polarity of the battery inputs. Damage could result to the ignition components and may render the RX unit in-operable.
Observe battery polarity indicators when installing fresh CR-123 batteries inside the RX unit.
Safety Note: it is the users responsibility to operate the launcher in a safe area away from dry brush, debris, homes, airports and flight paths, roads, children’s playgrounds, forested areas, etc.
It is NOT recommended, NOT necessary, to use a 12 volt automotive battery.
The latest project is the "STROBE". This device is small enough to place inside a rocket that has a clear tube container built into the nose of the rocket. It simply flashes white LED's that are placed on either side of the circuit board. The strobe effect is visible from a fair distance to aid in tracking the rocket in the event line of sight is lost at any point during the launch. The additional clear tube container provides a method of displaying the strobe at the launch pad.
The device is powered by TWO - 3volt (CR1025) lithium coin batteries.