What Is Electronic Speed Control?

Definition

• An electronic speed control is a circuit utilized to manipulate an electronic motor's direction and rate of speed. Electronic speed controls can also be used as a dynamic brake, or a means of slowing a motor by returning its energy or power to the supply line.

Process

• An electronic speed control receives control information and uses it to manipulate the switching in its network of transistors, which controls the motor via electricity. Electronic speed devices use a BEC, or battery eliminator circuit, to regulate voltage for the receiver, an electronic circuit that receives its input from a radio-signal antenna.

Applications

• Electronic speed control is often used in radio-controlled car and aircraft models. Electronic speed control for cars sends voltage to the motor, forcing it to act as a generator. When the car brakes, the electrical load is returned to the vehicle's drive batteries, allowing them to recharge. In the case of a helicopter aircraft model, no braking feature is typically used, but the electronic speed control uses a governor mode to allow the motor RPM to run at a constant speed.