How to Use ESCON 70/10: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The ESCON 70/10, manufactured by Maxon Motors, is a high-performance electronic speed controller (ESC) designed for precise control of brushless DC motors. It is widely used in applications requiring smooth motor operation, such as model aircraft, remote-controlled vehicles, robotics, and industrial automation. The ESCON 70/10 offers advanced features like programmable throttle response, braking, and protection mechanisms, making it a versatile and reliable choice for motor control.

• Remote-controlled vehicles (cars, boats, and aircraft)
• Robotics and automation systems
• Industrial machinery requiring precise motor control
• Drones and UAVs
• Laboratory equipment and test setups

The ESCON 70/10 is engineered to deliver high efficiency and reliability. Below are its key technical details:

The ESCON 70/10 features a set of input/output pins for power, control, and motor connections. Below is the pinout description:

The ESCON 70/10 is designed for easy integration into motor control systems. Follow the steps below to use the component effectively:

1. Power Supply: Connect a DC power supply (10 V to 70 V) to the VIN+ and VIN- pins. Ensure the power supply can deliver sufficient current for your motor's requirements.
2. Motor Connection: Connect the three motor phases to the M1, M2, and M3 pins. Ensure the connections are secure and match the motor's specifications.
3. Control Signal: Provide a PWM signal (typically 1 kHz to 20 kHz) to the PWM_IN pin to control the motor speed. The duty cycle of the PWM signal determines the motor speed.
4. Enable Operation: Pull the ENABLE pin high to activate the ESCON 70/10. Pulling it low will disable the motor.
5. Braking: Use the BRAKE pin to apply braking. Pulling this pin high activates the braking function.

• Heat Dissipation: Ensure proper ventilation or use a heatsink to prevent overheating during operation.
• Wiring: Use appropriately rated wires for power and motor connections to handle the current without excessive heating.
• Protection Features: The ESCON 70/10 includes overcurrent, overvoltage, and thermal protection. Ensure these limits are not exceeded to avoid damage.
• PWM Signal: Use a microcontroller (e.g., Arduino UNO) or a dedicated PWM generator to provide a stable control signal.

Below is an example of how to control the ESCON 70/10 using an Arduino UNO:

// Example: Controlling ESCON 70/10 with Arduino UNO
// This code generates a PWM signal to control motor speed via the ESCON 70/10

const int pwmPin = 9;  // PWM output pin connected to ESCON's PWM_IN
const int enablePin = 8;  // Enable pin connected to ESCON's ENABLE

void setup() {
  pinMode(pwmPin, OUTPUT);  // Set PWM pin as output
  pinMode(enablePin, OUTPUT);  // Set Enable pin as output

  digitalWrite(enablePin, HIGH);  // Enable the ESCON 70/10
}

void loop() {
  // Gradually increase motor speed
  for (int dutyCycle = 0; dutyCycle <= 255; dutyCycle++) {
    analogWrite(pwmPin, dutyCycle);  // Write PWM signal
    delay(20);  // Wait for 20 ms
  }

  // Gradually decrease motor speed
  for (int dutyCycle = 255; dutyCycle >= 0; dutyCycle--) {
    analogWrite(pwmPin, dutyCycle);  // Write PWM signal
    delay(20);  // Wait for 20 ms
  }
}

• Always test the setup with a low voltage and current before full-scale operation.
• Use proper insulation and shielding to minimize electrical noise.
• Regularly inspect connections and components for wear or damage.

1. Motor Does Not Spin

   • Cause: The ENABLE pin is not pulled high.
   • Solution: Ensure the ENABLE pin is connected to a high logic level.

2. Motor Vibrates or Runs Erratically

   • Cause: Incorrect motor phase connections or damaged motor.
   • Solution: Verify the motor connections and check the motor for faults.

3. Overheating

   • Cause: Insufficient cooling or excessive current draw.
   • Solution: Improve ventilation or use a heatsink. Ensure the motor's current rating matches the ESCON 70/10's specifications.

4. No Response to PWM Signal

   • Cause: Incorrect PWM frequency or duty cycle.
   • Solution: Verify the PWM signal parameters and ensure they are within the ESCON 70/10's supported range.

• Q: Can the ESCON 70/10 be used with brushed DC motors?
  A: No, the ESCON 70/10 is designed specifically for brushless DC motors.

• Q: What is the maximum PWM frequency supported?
  A: The ESCON 70/10 supports PWM frequencies up to 50 kHz.

• Q: Does the ESCON 70/10 support regenerative braking?
  A: Yes, the ESCON 70/10 includes a braking function that can be activated via the BRAKE pin.

• Q: Can I use the ESCON 70/10 in outdoor environments?
  A: Yes, but ensure it is protected from moisture and extreme temperatures beyond its operating range.

By following this documentation, users can effectively integrate the ESCON 70/10 into their motor control systems and achieve reliable performance.