What ESC does a helicopter need?
In the field of drones and model helicopters, ESC (electronic speed regulator) is one of the crucial components. It is responsible for controlling the speed and direction of the motor, which directly affects flight performance and stability. This article will discuss in detail the types of ESCs required for helicopters, their functions, and how to choose the right ESC.
1. Basic functions of ESC

The main function of the ESC is to convert the DC power from the battery into three-phase AC power to drive the brushless motor. Additionally, it has the following features:
| Function | Description |
|---|---|
| Speed control | Adjust the motor speed by receiving signals from the flight control or remote controller. |
| Current protection | When the current exceeds the rated value, the power supply is automatically cut off to protect the motor and battery. |
| Brake function | Quickly stop the motor rotation, suitable for certain flight scenarios. |
| Signal decoding | Parses the PWM signal and converts it into motor control instructions. |
2. Helicopters’ special requirements for electric control
Helicopters are different from ordinary multi-rotor drones. Their flight modes are more complex, so their requirements for electronic control are also higher. The following are several key points that helicopter ESCs need to meet:
| request | Description |
|---|---|
| High response speed | The helicopter needs to quickly adjust the rotational speed to maintain balance, and the response speed of the ESC must be fast enough. |
| High current carrying capacity | The main rotor motor of a helicopter usually requires a large current, and the ESC needs to have a high current carrying capacity. |
| Stability | ESCs need to remain stable under long-term high-load operation to avoid overheating or failure. |
| Compatibility | It needs to be compatible with the helicopter's flight control system and remote control to ensure correct signal transmission. |
3. How to choose the appropriate ESC
When choosing a helicopter ESC, you need to consider the following factors:
| factors | Suggestions |
|---|---|
| Current rating | Choose an ESC with a current rating slightly higher than the motor's maximum current to ensure safety. |
| voltage range | Select the ESC according to the battery voltage and make sure the ESC supports the battery voltage range. |
| Dimensions and weight | Choose a size and weight suitable for helicopter installation to avoid affecting flight performance. |
| Brand and reputation | Choose well-known brands to ensure quality and after-sales service. |
4. Recommended popular ESCs
The following are several popular ESCs suitable for helicopters currently on the market:
| brand | Model | Current rating | voltage range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hobbywing | Platinum V4 | 60A-120A | 6S-12S |
| Castle Creations | Talon 90 | 90A | 6S |
| YGE | LVT 65 | 65A | 6S |
5. Precautions for installation and debugging
When installing and debugging the ESC, please pay attention to the following points:
| steps | Things to note |
|---|---|
| Wiring | Make sure the power cable and signal cable are connected correctly to avoid short circuit. |
| Heat dissipation | Install a heat sink or fan to prevent the ESC from overheating. |
| Calibration | Calibrate the ESC according to the instructions to ensure the throttle range is correct. |
| test | Conduct a low-speed test on the ground to confirm that the motor's steering and speed are normal. |
6. Summary
The selection and installation of helicopter ESCs directly affect flight safety and performance. By understanding the functions of ESCs, the special requirements of helicopters for ESCs, and how to choose the right ESC, you can better equip your helicopter with the right ESC. Hope this article can provide you with valuable reference.
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