Horizon Hobby

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The Horizon Hobby logo Horizon Hobby logo.png
The Horizon Hobby logo

Horizon Hobby, LLC is an American multinational hobby-grade RC radio control (RC) model, model train manufacturer, and distributor. It was founded by Rick Stephens, Janet Ottmers, Debra Love, and Eric Meyers, [1] in July 1985, [2] and headquartered in Champaign, Illinois. [3] Horizon Hobby products are sold in more than 50 countries. [4] Additional facilities are in California and abroad in the United Kingdom, Germany, and China. [4]

Contents

History

The Early Years - 1985-1999

After Great Planes Model Distributors and Tower Hobbies merged in 1984, Hobbico, Inc. was created. [5] In July 1985, Stephens, along with Janet Ottmers, Debra Love, and Eric Meyers, formed Horizon Hobby. [5] October 1, 1985, was the first day of official business as the team started shipping inventory on orders they’d been taking the months prior. The company began distributing product lines such as Goldberg, Royal, K&B, Sullivan, and Du-Bro. [5]

In 1986, a second distribution center was opened in Paso Robles, California, allowing Horizon Hobby to service retailers west of the Rockies. [1] A year later, a third distribution center was opened in Ashland, Virginia, creating the ability to service retailers on the East Coast. [6]

The first proprietary brand, Dynamite, was created in 1988. [6]

Horizon Hobby purchased Hobby Dynamics in 1992 and secured exclusive distribution rights to brands such as JR radios and Saito engines, among others. [1]

Horizon Hobby acquired Indy R/C in 1998 and remade it into the first iteration of horizonhobby.com. [1] The early site featured the latest products, links to tech articles, a dealer locator, and more.

The Revolutionary Years - 2000-2017

In 2000, Horizon Hobby introduced the HobbyZone Firebird, the world's first Teach-Yourself-to-Fly RC airplane. The Firebird featured a patented design and a user-friendly two-channel control system, making it accessible to new enthusiasts. This all-inclusive package included the airplane, battery, charger, and radio, allowing beginners to fly on the very same day. [1]

Horizon Hobby merged with Team Losi, known for its leadership in engineering high-performance RC racing vehicles, in 2000. [6] This collaboration led to the launch of the Losi Mini-T in 2003, further enhancing the product portfolio. [6]

Another milestone came in 2004 with the introduction of the first 2.4 GHz spread spectrum radio systems for radio control models at the iHobby Expo in Rosemont, Illinois. [6] [7] Originally developed by Paul Beard, [7] this technology is akin to what's used in cell phones and Wi-Fi routers. ¬

Horizon Hobby welcomed Athearn Trains in 2004, [6] adding a comprehensive line of model railroad products, including train sets, locomotives, cars, controllers, tracks, and accessories.

2005 witnessed the introduction of three proprietary brands: Spektrum radios and accessories, Blade helicopters, and ParkZone planes. [6] [8] These brands brought innovative RC technology to hobby-quality aircraft, featuring plug-and-play accessories and multiple flight modes.

Joe Ambrose assumed the role of CEO in 2008. [9]

In 2009, Horizon Hobby created Airmeet, an annual event held at the airfield in Donauwörth, Bavaria. [6] [10] [11] Airmeet blends RC displays and flying with full-size airplanes and flight shows.

2010 saw the introduction of Spektrum AirWare firmware, allowing for pilot programming and customization. [12]

In 2011, Horizon Hobby unveiled the Blade CX2, the first coaxial mini helicopter with 2.4GHz control. [6] The same year, Team Losi Racing introduced the 22 platform [12], winning numerous national and international titles and industry accolades.

In 2012, the Losi 5IVE-T 1/5 scale 4WD Off-Road Truck earned the title of Car Action Magazine Truck of the Year. [12]

2013 brought the introduction of the E-flite Apprentice, heralded as the most intelligent RC airplane ever offered at the time. [12] Continuing to serve RC beginners, Horizon Hobby launched the ECX Torment and Ruckus, the first monster truck and short course truck specifically designed for novice enthusiasts. [12]

In 2014, Horizon Hobby underwent a significant change as it was acquired by a group of investors led by Joe Ambrose, forming Horizon Hobby, LLC. [1] [13]

The year 2015 brought the Blade Inductrix, the first ultra-micro First-Person View (FPV) quadcopter designed to be accessible to all skill levels. [6] In the same year, Horizon Hobby introduced SAFE (Sensor Assisted Flight Envelope) Technology, enhancing the safety and ease of flying RC aircraft. [6]

2016 marked the introduction of AVC (Active Vehicle Control) Technology, a groundbreaking advancement in RC vehicle stability and control. [6]

Horizon Hobby continued to push the boundaries in 2017 with the introduction of the iX12, the industry's first internet-capable radio transmitter. [6]

Since its inception in 2017, Horizon RC Fest has grown to become the largest gathering of radio-controlled cars, trucks, airplanes, helicopters, and drones in the Midwest. [6] [10] [14] This three-day event brings thousands of enthusiasts [6] together to enjoy everything radio control, featuring demo stations, "Try Me" tents, air and racing shows, and more.

The Post-Hobbico Years: 2018-Present

In 2018, then-CEO Joe Ambrose led the efforts to purchase Hobbico. [1] [15] [16]

Logic RC became the UK distributor of Horizon Hobby products in 2018. [8]

Launched in 2019, the Spektrum Smart Technology ecosystem puts enthusiasts in complete control of their equipment as well as making vital components of their model more accessible and easier to use. [6]

After the untimely passing of Joe Ambrose in January 2019, Chris Dickerson was named President. [9] [17]

In 2020, Horizon Hobby announced the acquisition of Pro-Line Racing, [18] the leading innovator in the RC performance and customization accessory market, and PROTOform, the world’s premier RC racing body manufacturer delivering the most innovative, functional, and attractive on-road RC race bodies on the market. [6] [18]

In 2021, Horizon Hobby announced the acquisition of AKA Products. [19] In November of that same year, Horizon Hobby announced the acquisition of RC flight simulator software, RealFlight, from Knife Edge Software. [6] [19] [20] [21]

In 2023, Horizon Hobby announced the acquisition of Trinity Racing, a premier developer and manufacturer of RC racing accessories. [6] [22]

Proprietary Brands

Horizon Hobby consists of several brands: [23]

Events

Horizon Hobby hosts several radio control gatherings: [10]

Airmeet Airmeet is an annual RC event held in Donauwörth, Bavaria. [6] [10] [11]

RC Fest RC Fest is an annual RC event held at Eli Field in Monticello, Illinois. [6] [10] [14]

AxialFest There are two Axialfest locations held each year – Axialfest itself in Pollock Pines, California, and Axialfest Badlands in Attica, Indiana. [24] [25]

Pro-Line by the Fire Held annually in Apple Valley, California, Pro-Line by the Fire is three days of RC events and family fun. [10]

Innovations

Horizon Hobby has championed many radio control innovations.

2.4GHz Technology

2.4GHz Technology was introduced at the 2004 iHobby Expo at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, Illinois. Similar to the technology in computers and telephones, it eliminated interference, increased signal resolution, pioneered the way for better communication and faster response rates for RC models, and made the frequency flag and transmitter impounds obsolete. [6] [26] [27]

DSMR and DSMX Technology

DSMR and DSMX are wideband, frequency-agile 2.4GHz signal protocols and the most advanced spread spectrum RC technology. The DSM stands for Digital Spectrum Modulation and is what creates pure digital control providing an impenetrable radio link immune to all types of interference. [6] [26] [27]

Bind-N-Fly RC Aircraft

A single Spektrum radio transmitter can be bound to (or paired with) multiple Bind-N-Fly (BNF) aircraft that come with a Spektrum receiver installed. All Spektrum transmitter owners need to do to fly is choose the BNF airplane, helicopter, or quadcopter they want to fly and bind the receiver to their transmitter. [28]

AS3X (Artificial Stabilization – 3-aXis) Technology

AS3X technology works behind the scenes to smooth out the effects of turbulence and torque. It allows for RC pilots to feel like they’re flying an expertly tuned model in any weather condition. [29]

SAFE (Sensor Assisted Flight Envelope) Technology

Using a combination of sensors and flight control software, SAFE technology makes an RC aircraft aware of its attitude relative to the ground. This attitude awareness makes it possible to program all types of aircraft, fixed wing or rotor, with multiple flight modes that are specialized for different applications or experience levels. [6] [30]

AVC (Active Vehicle Control) Technology

Using sensors and exclusive software, AVC makes hundreds of steering and throttle corrections per second so drivers can go faster without having to work as hard to stay in control. [6] [31]

Smart Technology

Spektrum Smart Technology is an RC ecosystem that puts drivers and pilots in complete control while making vital components easier to use than ever before. Smart technology ensures the model's electronics work together seamlessly for the greatest efficiency and performance. It provides real-time telemetry without the clutter and cost of additional cords and components and makes the entire system more responsive and simpler to use. [6] [32]

MS6X (Motorcycle Stabilization – 6-aXis) Technology

Designed to work behind the scenes, an MS6X System delivers instantaneous corrections regarding banking, self-leveling, wheelie control, and more, with a natural feel and wholly accurate commands for two-wheeled radio control vehicles. [33]


Notes

    Related Research Articles

    <span class="mw-page-title-main">Model aircraft</span> Physical model of an aircraft for display, research, or amusement

    A model aircraft is a physical model of an existing or imagined aircraft, and is built typically for display, research, or amusement. Model aircraft are divided into two basic groups: flying and non-flying. Non-flying models are also termed static, display, or shelf models.

    Radio-controlled cars, or RC cars for short, are miniature vehicles controlled via radio.

    <span class="mw-page-title-main">Radio-controlled model</span>

    A radio-controlled model is a model that is steerable with the use of radio control (RC). All types of model vehicles have had RC systems installed in them, including ground vehicles, boats, planes, helicopters and even submarines and scale railway locomotives.

    Japan Remote Control Co., Ltd. was a Japanese manufacturer of popular radio control devices including transmitters, receivers, servos, electronics, programmable robots and model aircraft. JR has ceased production of RC equipment.

    Futaba Corporation is a Japanese company founded in 1948, originally to produce vacuum tubes. As time passed, production and elemental techniques of the vacuum tube transformed into the manufacturing of vacuum fluorescent displays (VFDs), tool and die set components, radio control equipment and OLED displays.

    <span class="mw-page-title-main">Radio-controlled aircraft</span> Aircraft controlled remotely via radio control

    A radio-controlled aircraft is a small flying machine that is radio controlled by an operator on the ground using a hand-held radio transmitter. The transmitter continuously communicates with a receiver within the craft that sends signals to servomechanisms (servos) which move the control surfaces based on the position of joysticks on the transmitter. The control surfaces, in turn, directly affect the orientation of the plane.

    <span class="mw-page-title-main">ParkZone</span>

    ParkZone was a brand specializing in intermediate-level, radio-controlled electric model aircraft. It was created and distributed by Horizon Hobby, an American hobby manufacturer based in Champaign, Illinois, United States. The term "park flyer" inspired the brand name, signifying compact models suitable for flying in parks.

    <span class="mw-page-title-main">HobbyZone</span>

    HobbyZone is a brand of electric-powered radio controlled aircraft, car, and boat models distributed by Horizon Hobby of Champaign, Illinois.

    <span class="mw-page-title-main">Radio-controlled helicopter</span> Model aircraft

    A radio-controlled helicopter is model aircraft which is distinct from a RC airplane because of the differences in construction, aerodynamics, and flight training. Several basic designs of RC helicopters exist, of which some are more maneuverable than others. The more maneuverable designs are often harder to fly, but benefit from greater aerobatic capabilities.

    Associated Electrics, Incorporated of Lake Forest, California, is one of the world's leading manufacturers of radio controlled cars, trucks and accessories. Associated Electrics is now owned by Thunder Tiger Corporation from Taiwan. The company is usually referred to as Team Associated.

    <span class="mw-page-title-main">Spektrum RC</span> Radio control systems brand

    Spektrum is a brand of radio control systems designed for use with hobby radio-controlled cars and aircraft. Spektrum is a division of Horizon Hobby.

    <span class="mw-page-title-main">First-person view (radio control)</span> Controlling a radio-controlled vehicle from the driver or pilots view point

    First-person view (FPV), also known as remote-person view (RPV), or video piloting, is a method used to control a radio-controlled vehicle from the driver or pilot's viewpoint. Most commonly it is used to pilot a radio-controlled aircraft or other type of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) such as a military drone. The operator gets a first-person perspective from an onboard camera that feeds video to FPV goggles or a monitor. More sophisticated setups include a pan-and-tilt gimbaled camera controlled by a gyroscope sensor in the pilot's goggles and with dual onboard cameras, enabling a true stereoscopic view.

    <span class="mw-page-title-main">RealFlight</span> Model aircraft flight simulator series

    RealFlight RC Simulator is a radio-controlled airplane and helicopter simulation software series developed by Knife Edge Software and now published by Horizon Hobby. The software allows for the flying of numerous RC aircraft, helicopters and drones so that the user can learn to fly RC, practice their skills or fly with others in multiplayer mode.

    Hobbico, Inc. was a manufacturer and distributor of hobby products including radio control airplanes, boats, cars, helicopters and multirotors/drones. Other products include plastic model kits, model rockets, model trains, slot cars, crafts, jigsaw puzzles and games. The company had approximately 850 employees worldwide. On January 10, 2018, Hobbico filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection and announced the company is for sale. On April 13, Horizon Hobby acquired control of most Hobbico RC brands & IP. Estes Industries acquired the Estes-Cox business unit and a German venture capital group acquired Revell Germany whole and the Revell-Monogram brands, IP & molds.

    <span class="mw-page-title-main">Wings Across America 2008</span>

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    <span class="mw-page-title-main">Yokomo YZ-834B</span>

    Yokomo YZ-834B "Dog Fighter" is a 1/10 scale electric-powered 4WD radio-controlled vehicle made by Yokomo. Introduced in 1983 for off-road racing, it has been cited by the website, LiveRC, as the first racing specific 4WD buggy The car was marketed in Europe, sold by Graupner, as the Graupner Dogfighter and in the US by Delta Systems, as the Delta Dogfighter.

    HobbyKing is a Hong Kong–based sales site that mainly distributes products dedicated to model airplanes and remote controlled (RC) models.

    <span class="mw-page-title-main">1:10 radio-controlled off-road buggy</span> 1:10 scale radio-controlled dune buggy for off-road racing

    A 1:10 radio-controlled off-road buggy is a 1:10 scale radio-controlled dune buggy designed for off-road racing. These cars are based on their full-scale equivalents that are commonly found in desert racing. The buggies are split into two race categories, two (2WD) and four-wheel drive (4WD). These can easily be distinguished visually by their wheel size at the front. Cars are typically electric powered, but nitro versions do exist but are less common because racing classes exist for electric cars. The class is inexpensive and similar to a number of other classes, and this makes them popular with newcomers. The cars are also known as 1/10 off-road.

    Sanwa Denshi, widely known as Sanwa, is a brand of wireless equipment best known for its high end radio-control gear for scale modelling use. The company have been a subsidiary of the SMC Group since 1965 and began to diversify into the manufacturing of radio-control equipment in 1974 and remote control devices for home and industrial use since 1985.

    References

    1. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 P., William (January 1, 2019). "The Rise of Horizon Hobby". Model Airplane News (January 2019): 10. Retrieved 2023-08-09.
    2. ↑ "Rick Stephens". LinkedIn. Retrieved 2024-04-01.
    3. ↑ "L&S sold to Horizon - 7/5/2007 11:52:00 AM - Playthings". Archived from the original on 2007-06-19. Retrieved 2008-12-04.
    4. 1 2 Horizon Hobby (Report). Mill City Capital LP. January 1, 2014. p. 10. Retrieved 2023-11-20.
    5. 1 2 3 Haughn, Rachelle. "Rachelle Haughn interviews Eric Meyers, cofounder of Horizon Hobby". The Park Pilot (Fall 2020). Retrieved 2023-10-05.
    6. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 "Our History". Horizon Hobby. Retrieved 2023-11-20.
    7. 1 2 Haughn, Rachelle (2013-03-01). "The AMA History Project Presents: Biography of Paul Beard" (PDF). Model Aviation. Academy of Model Aeronautics. Retrieved 2024-04-29.
    8. 1 2 "Horizon Hobby - A Short History". Al’s Hobbies. Retrieved 2024-04-29.
    9. 1 2 McGee, Noelle (2019-01-08). "A Life Remembered: Horizon Hobby CEO was 'hands-on with the entire company'". The News-Gazette. Champaign, IL. Retrieved 2024-04-29.
    10. 1 2 3 4 5 6 "Our Signature Events". Horizon Hobby. Retrieved 2023-11-20.
    11. 1 2 "Horizon Hobby Airmeet". Horizon Hobby. Retrieved 2023-11-20.
    12. 1 2 3 4 "Who We Are". Horizon Hobby. Archived from the original on 2019-12-16. Retrieved 2023-11-20.
    13. ↑ "Horizon Hobby being sold to investors". The News-Gazette. Champaign, IL. 2013-12-09. Retrieved 2024-04-29.
    14. 1 2 "Horizon Hobby RC Fest". Horizon Hobby. Retrieved 2023-11-20.
    15. ↑ Zigterman, Ben (2018-03-24). "Horizon Hobby agrees to make $18.8M bid for Hobbico units". The News-Gazette. Champaign, IL. Retrieved 2024-06-10.
    16. ↑ Zigterman, Ben. "Bankruptcy judge OKs Horizon's purchase of Hobbico's RC business". The News-Gazette. Retrieved 2020-07-29.
    17. ↑ "RCGroups Interview with Horizon Hobby President Chris Dickerson". RC Groups. Retrieved 2024-06-10.
    18. 1 2 Vogel, Greg (2020-08-10). "Horizon Hobby Acquires Pro-Line Racing". RC Driver. Brookfield, CT. Retrieved 2024-06-10.
    19. 1 2 "Horizon Hobby Acquires AKA Racing Products". Radio Control Car Action. Retrieved 2024-06-10.
    20. ↑ "Horizon Hobby Acquires RealFlight Flight Simulator". Horizon Hobby. Retrieved 2024-06-10.
    21. ↑ Trevor, Jim (2021-11-04). "Horizon Hobby Acquires RealFlight Flight Simulator". RCGroups.com. Retrieved 2023-08-10.
    22. ↑ "Horizon Hobby Acquiring Trinity Racing". Horizon Hobby. Retrieved 2023-11-20.
    23. ↑ "Our Brands". Horizon Hobby. Retrieved 2023-11-20.
    24. ↑ "Axialfest". Horizon Hobby. Retrieved 2023-11-20.
    25. ↑ "Axialfest East". Horizon Hobby. Retrieved 2023-11-20.
    26. 1 2 "Spektrum DSMX Technology". Spektrum. Retrieved 2024-07-06.
    27. 1 2 "Spektrum DSMR Technology". Spektrum. Retrieved 2024-07-06.
    28. ↑ "Spektrum Bind-N-Fly Technology". Spektrum. Retrieved 2024-07-06.
    29. ↑ "Spektrum AS3X Technology". Spektrum. Retrieved 2024-07-06.
    30. ↑ "Spektrum SAFE Technology". Spektrum. Retrieved 2024-07-06.
    31. ↑ "AVC (Active Vehicle Control)". Spektrum. Retrieved 2024-07-06.
    32. ↑ "Smart Technology". Spektrum. Retrieved 2024-07-06.
    33. ↑ "Spektrum MS6X". Spektrum. Retrieved 2024-07-06.
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