Electronic speed controllers (ESC's) electronically regulate the voltage output from the battery to the motor on a radio controlled model from the operator's inputs made on the throttle stick on the transmitter. For aircraft the speed controller will need to be lightweight and compact, and this is now very acheivable with micro electronics. Aircraft speed controllers have no need of the bulky heatsinks that car and boat speed controllers often have, as they are air cooled. There are two types of speed controller, for brushed, or brushless motors. The limit of the ESC is rated in amps, and is usually indicated in the name. Check the motor specifications for the continuous current rating, and match the ESC to that, maybe allowing a little extra amperage for safety. Most modern ESCs have an automatic cut out protection, but this is not foolproof, and so matching the ESC to the motor is important.
Fusion Tornado 40A Car, Boat, Aircraft Speed Controller (FS-TBL40HV) Load Current 40A, Peak Current 50A, Dimensions (mm) 66x25x10, Weight 47g, No. of NiCD/NiMH Cells 6-18, No. of Lipo Cells 2-6, BEC @ 5.5V, Programmable Yes.
Stock:
Available from shops: Bristol: 1, Gloucester: 1 (explain )
