Ron and Tom explain electric RC motors, ESCs, BECs, batteries, watts, and a practical method for sizing a complete power system.
In this episode
- Episode Topics
Chapters
00:39 — Electric-power terminology and the big picture
13:02 — Brushed motors and basic motor operation
26:05 — Brushless motors, KV, and wiring
39:15 — ESCs, BECs, and receiver power
52:08 — Voltage, current, watts, and batteries
65:11 — Sizing a power system with worked examples
Episode Topics
Motor fundamentals
The episode compares brushed and brushless motors, explains KV, and connects motor speed and torque to voltage and propeller load.
ESC and BEC functions
An electronic speed controller manages motor power, while the BEC can supply regulated power to the receiver and servos.
Understanding the electrical numbers
Voltage, amperage, capacity, C rating, and watts describe different parts of the system and must be considered together.
Choosing a matched system
Airplane weight, desired performance, motor limits, ESC headroom, battery capability, propeller choice, and cooling all contribute to a reliable setup.
Key Takeaways
- Size the system around airplane weight and desired performance.
- Keep motor, ESC, battery, and propeller within their published limits.
- Provide useful current headroom in the ESC.
- Confirm the BEC can support the installed servos.
- Use a wattmeter to verify the completed setup on the ground.
For diagrams, definitions, formulas, and expanded examples, see the Electric RC Motors & ESC Guide.
Episode 20 Transcript
This transcript has been lightly edited for readability. Timestamps are retained.
Read the full transcript
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