Picoo Z

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Front view of the Picoo Z.
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Front view of the Picoo Z.
Rear view of the Picoo Z.
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Rear view of the Picoo Z.

The Picoo Z (also sold under the brand name of Havoc Heli as well as Honey Bee in Japan, China, and other countries) is a miniature remote control helicopter manufactured by Silverlit Toys.

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[edit] Features and capabilities

The Picoo Z measures 6 inches long, weighs 10 grams, and is controlled using a 2-channel infrared controller. It is designed for indoor flying but can also be flown outdoors in calm conditions. The Picoo Z is made of tough EPP (expanded polypropylene) foam and comprises a lithium polymer rechargeable battery and 2 micro motors. The helicopter is recharged by plugging it into the controller. Charging generally takes 20 minutes and will give the Picoo Z a flight duration anywhere between 5 to 7 minutes. Range is limited due to the controller interfacing with the helicopter through infrared instead of a more common radio frequency. MSRP is around $30 USD.

[edit] Instant popularity

The Picoo Z was released in the summer of 2006. Due to the magnitude of popularity from the consumers and the manufacturer and distributers underestimating this popularity, the first shipments were sold out instantly when they arrived in the stores.[1] This instant popularity has made some resellers offer the Picoo Z for premium prices upwards of $150 USD.[2] It has also rather quickly spawned a number copy products to the market. The manufacturer expects to ramp up production and distribution in time for the 2006 holiday season.[1]

The popularity of the Picoo Z has also led to a fan base that has created several web sites that include forums, modification information, and tips.[3][4] There are also a growing number a fan made videos being posted on video sharing sites such as YouTube.[5]

[edit] Specifications

Picoo Z charged directly from the 2-channel controller.
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Picoo Z charged directly from the 2-channel controller.
  • Main Rotor Diameter: 130 mm (5.25 in)
  • Length: 170 mm (6.5 in) excluding rotors
  • Rear Rotor diameter 30 mm (1.25 in)
  • Weight: 10 g
  • Charge time: 20 minutes for full charge
  • Flight duration: 5 to 7 minutes between charges
  • Control Specification: 2-channel proportional infrared control dystem
  • Flight: take off, hover and descend, turn left and right
  • Range: Up to 10 m (30 ft)

[edit] References

[edit] External links