How to Use ESC 90A: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The FLYCOLOR 90A Electronic Speed Controller (ESC) is a high-performance component designed to control the speed, direction, and braking of brushless motors. With a current rating of 90 Amperes, this ESC is ideal for applications requiring precise throttle control, such as remote-controlled (RC) vehicles, drones, boats, and other hobbyist projects. Its robust design ensures reliable operation under demanding conditions, making it a popular choice for enthusiasts and professionals alike.

• RC drones and quadcopters
• RC cars and trucks
• RC boats
• Robotics and automation projects
• Electric-powered model aircraft

The following table outlines the key technical details of the FLYCOLOR 90A ESC:

The FLYCOLOR 90A ESC has the following connections:

1. Connect the Power Source: Attach the ESC's power input wires (red and black) to the battery terminals. Ensure the voltage matches the ESC's input range (2S–6S LiPo).
2. Connect the Motor: Attach the three motor output wires to the brushless motor. If the motor spins in the wrong direction, swap any two wires.
3. Connect the Signal Input: Connect the white signal wire to the PWM output pin of your flight controller or RC receiver.
4. Connect the Ground: Ensure the ESC's ground wire is connected to the ground of the flight controller or receiver.
5. Calibrate the Throttle:
   • Power on the transmitter and set the throttle to maximum.
   • Power on the ESC while holding the throttle at maximum.
   • Wait for the calibration tones, then move the throttle to the minimum position.
   • Wait for the confirmation tones indicating successful calibration.
6. Secure the ESC: Mount the ESC securely in your vehicle or drone using zip ties or double-sided tape to prevent movement during operation.

• Cooling: Ensure adequate airflow around the ESC to prevent overheating during operation.
• Battery Compatibility: Use only LiPo batteries within the specified voltage range (2S–6S).
• Signal Quality: Use a high-quality PWM signal source to avoid erratic motor behavior.
• Wiring: Keep wires as short as possible to minimize resistance and electromagnetic interference.
• Pre-Flight Check: Always test the motor and ESC setup on the ground before flying or driving.

The following example demonstrates how to control the ESC using an Arduino UNO:

#include <Servo.h> // Include the Servo library to generate PWM signals

Servo esc; // Create a Servo object to control the ESC

void setup() {
  esc.attach(9); // Attach the ESC signal wire to pin 9
  esc.writeMicroseconds(1000); // Set throttle to minimum (1ms pulse)
  delay(2000); // Wait for the ESC to initialize
}

void loop() {
  esc.writeMicroseconds(1500); // Set throttle to mid-range (1.5ms pulse)
  delay(5000); // Run motor at mid-speed for 5 seconds

  esc.writeMicroseconds(1000); // Set throttle to minimum (stop motor)
  delay(5000); // Wait for 5 seconds before repeating
}

Note: Ensure the ESC is properly calibrated before running the code. Always test the setup without propellers for safety.

1. Motor Does Not Spin:

   • Check all connections, especially the signal wire.
   • Ensure the throttle is calibrated correctly.
   • Verify the battery voltage is within the ESC's input range.

2. Motor Spins in the Wrong Direction:

   • Swap any two of the three motor output wires.

3. ESC Overheats:

   • Ensure proper airflow around the ESC.
   • Verify the motor and propeller are not drawing excessive current.

4. No Power to Receiver or Servos:

   • Check the BEC output connections.
   • Ensure the ESC is powered by a compatible battery.

5. ESC Emits Continuous Beeping:

   • This indicates a throttle signal issue. Verify the signal wire is connected to the correct pin on the flight controller or receiver.

Q: Can I use this ESC with a brushed motor?
A: No, the FLYCOLOR 90A ESC is designed specifically for brushless motors.

Q: What happens if I exceed the ESC's current rating?
A: The ESC's overcurrent protection will activate, shutting down the motor to prevent damage.

Q: Can I use this ESC with a 7S LiPo battery?
A: No, the ESC supports a maximum of 6S LiPo batteries (22.2V).

Q: How do I update the firmware on this ESC?
A: The FLYCOLOR 90A ESC does not support firmware updates.

By following this documentation, you can effectively integrate the FLYCOLOR 90A ESC into your projects and troubleshoot common issues with ease.