The RC Speed Controller, what it does and why it is needed.

Why a RC Speed Controller is needed.

What is the function of a RC speed controller.

All electric RC trucks and cars have to run some type of RC speed controller either a mechanical or electronic. A mechanical rc speed controller (MSC) can only used on brushed motors. While some rc electronic speed controllers can be used on both.

If you do use a electronic rc speed controller on a brushed motor just be positive that your ESC is compatible and is set for a brushed motor or you will FRY your ESC. A large investment up in smoke, not a good idea.

Understanding the differences between a MSC and an ESC, you first need to understand how batteries work and why a speed controller is needed.

Batteries are either "on" or "off", that is it. Nothing fancy. So, as soon as you pull the trigger on your remote control the batteries release all 7.2 volts.

Then with no kind of rc speed controller it would be full throttle or nothing.

In a mechanical rc speed controller a resistor burns off voltage as heat to control the amount of throttle you desire. So, if you want 1/2 throttle your mechanical rc speed controller burns off half the volts to accomplish this.

Not a very efficient way to control the throttle, while losing a lot of your stored energy in your batteries. Rc Electronic speed controller image With an electronic rc speed controller it all works much differently. An electronic rc speed controller does not throw away your stored electric energy with a resistor.

An electronic rc speed controller switches on and off the motor very quickly to control the speed. The switching rate varies from at least 60 cycles per second to 4000 cycles per second.

These switching rates are the "frequency" of an electronic rc speed controller. The higher "frequency" the smoother the throttle feels. Plus, the ESC is more efficient.

Except for the initial cost of an electronic speed controller, there is no downside to using one. An electronic speed controller requires no maintenance.

Gives you better throttle control and response. Plus, adds to your run time by extending battery life.

One minor disadvantage to the electronic rc speed controller is in the area of programing all the components (radio, motor and ESC).

With the electronic rc speed controller (ESC) being a micro processor you will need to program your ESC to be compatible. Your owner's manual for your ESC should walk you through the steps required to get the programing done correctly.

If, you are having any problems getting this accomplished contact tech support at the manufacture. All manufactures of ESC's have a great tech department.

Rc Electronic speed controller cooling fan image

Also, remember that your rc speed controller can produce a significant amount of heat. Heat is an rc ESC's worst enemy. You do need to plan on how you are going to cool your rc speed controller.

There are many cooling fans and mounting hardware combinations available. You may not need a cooling fan, but do check the running temperature of your ESC.

If you are not getting enough air movement over your rc speed controller consider adding a cooling fan.

Return from Rc Speed Controller to Rc Truck n Car Tuning Home Page

Back to Introduction to Rc Electric Motor

Check your Local Weather Here

check out the Rc Truck n Car Tuning swicki at eurekster.com

Return to top of RC Speed Controller

footer for rc speed controller page