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How to Use Castle Creations CC BEC 2.0: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

Image of Castle Creations CC BEC 2.0
Cirkit Designer LogoDesign with Castle Creations CC BEC 2.0 in Cirkit Designer

Introduction

The Castle Creations CC BEC 2.0 is a high-performance battery eliminator circuit (BEC) designed to provide a stable and adjustable voltage output for powering servos, receivers, and other electronics in remote control (RC) applications. By eliminating the need for a separate receiver battery, the CC BEC 2.0 simplifies power management and reduces the overall weight of RC systems. It is particularly well-suited for high-power setups where consistent and reliable power delivery is critical.

Explore Projects Built with Castle Creations CC BEC 2.0

Use Cirkit Designer to design, explore, and prototype these projects online. Some projects support real-time simulation. Click "Open Project" to start designing instantly!
Ghostbusters Trap Simulation with Arduino Mega and Adafruit Modules
Image of Copy of Trap Wiring1: A project utilizing Castle Creations CC BEC 2.0 in a practical application
This circuit simulates a ghost trap from the movie Ghostbusters, featuring a variety of components including servos, LEDs, a bargraph, a haptic motor, a DC motor, and a water pump to create an interactive experience. It is controlled by an Arduino Mega ADK microcontroller, which can be activated via a Bluetooth module or an encoder switch, and includes a music player shield for audio feedback. The encoder also adjusts the volume, and the system is powered by a rechargeable battery with a PowerBoost 1000C for charging and power management.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer
Interactive Touch and Motion Sensor System with Bela Board and OLED Display
Image of GIZMO Teaset: A project utilizing Castle Creations CC BEC 2.0 in a practical application
This circuit integrates a Bela Board with various sensors and actuators, including a TRILL CRAFT touch sensor, an ADXXL335 accelerometer, a vibration motor, and a loudspeaker. The Bela Board processes input from the touch sensor and accelerometer, and controls the vibration motor and loudspeaker, while an OLED display provides visual feedback.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer
ESP32-Based Security System with RFID and Laser Tripwire
Image of CPE doorlock system: A project utilizing Castle Creations CC BEC 2.0 in a practical application
This circuit is designed for a comprehensive security and access control system with motion detection, access via RFID, and a break-beam sensor. It includes a solenoid lock controlled by a relay, visual and audible alerts, and a robust power management system with solar and battery backup to ensure uninterrupted operation.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer
Arduino Mega 2560 Controlled Ghostbuster Trap Prop with MP3 Player and Haptic Feedback
Image of Trap Wiring: A project utilizing Castle Creations CC BEC 2.0 in a practical application
This circuit is designed to simulate a Ghostbuster trap prop with various interactive features. It includes an Arduino Mega 2560 to control a sequence of events such as playing audio tracks through an MP3 player module, creating vibrations with a haptic motor driver and DC motors, displaying patterns on a bi-color 24-bar LED bargraph, moving servos, and activating a relay-controlled water pump. The sequence is initiated by an IR receiver, and the circuit incorporates LEDs, resistors, a step-down buck converter for voltage regulation, and a Bluetooth module for potential wireless control.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer

Explore Projects Built with Castle Creations CC BEC 2.0

Use Cirkit Designer to design, explore, and prototype these projects online. Some projects support real-time simulation. Click "Open Project" to start designing instantly!
Image of Copy of Trap Wiring1: A project utilizing Castle Creations CC BEC 2.0 in a practical application
Ghostbusters Trap Simulation with Arduino Mega and Adafruit Modules
This circuit simulates a ghost trap from the movie Ghostbusters, featuring a variety of components including servos, LEDs, a bargraph, a haptic motor, a DC motor, and a water pump to create an interactive experience. It is controlled by an Arduino Mega ADK microcontroller, which can be activated via a Bluetooth module or an encoder switch, and includes a music player shield for audio feedback. The encoder also adjusts the volume, and the system is powered by a rechargeable battery with a PowerBoost 1000C for charging and power management.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer
Image of GIZMO Teaset: A project utilizing Castle Creations CC BEC 2.0 in a practical application
Interactive Touch and Motion Sensor System with Bela Board and OLED Display
This circuit integrates a Bela Board with various sensors and actuators, including a TRILL CRAFT touch sensor, an ADXXL335 accelerometer, a vibration motor, and a loudspeaker. The Bela Board processes input from the touch sensor and accelerometer, and controls the vibration motor and loudspeaker, while an OLED display provides visual feedback.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer
Image of CPE doorlock system: A project utilizing Castle Creations CC BEC 2.0 in a practical application
ESP32-Based Security System with RFID and Laser Tripwire
This circuit is designed for a comprehensive security and access control system with motion detection, access via RFID, and a break-beam sensor. It includes a solenoid lock controlled by a relay, visual and audible alerts, and a robust power management system with solar and battery backup to ensure uninterrupted operation.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer
Image of Trap Wiring: A project utilizing Castle Creations CC BEC 2.0 in a practical application
Arduino Mega 2560 Controlled Ghostbuster Trap Prop with MP3 Player and Haptic Feedback
This circuit is designed to simulate a Ghostbuster trap prop with various interactive features. It includes an Arduino Mega 2560 to control a sequence of events such as playing audio tracks through an MP3 player module, creating vibrations with a haptic motor driver and DC motors, displaying patterns on a bi-color 24-bar LED bargraph, moving servos, and activating a relay-controlled water pump. The sequence is initiated by an IR receiver, and the circuit incorporates LEDs, resistors, a step-down buck converter for voltage regulation, and a Bluetooth module for potential wireless control.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer

Common Applications and Use Cases

  • RC airplanes, helicopters, cars, and boats
  • Powering servos and receivers in high-current systems
  • Providing stable voltage for FPV (First-Person View) equipment
  • Applications requiring adjustable voltage output for sensitive electronics

Technical Specifications

The CC BEC 2.0 is available in two variants: Standard and High Voltage (HV). Below are the key specifications for both models:

Specification Standard Version High Voltage (HV) Version
Input Voltage Range 2S to 6S LiPo (8V–25.2V) 2S to 12S LiPo (8V–50.4V)
Output Voltage Range 4.75V to 12V (adjustable) 4.75V to 14V (adjustable)
Maximum Continuous Current 15A 15A
Peak Current (2 seconds) 20A 20A
Efficiency Up to 90% Up to 90%
Dimensions 1.69" x 1.3" x 0.94" 1.69" x 1.3" x 0.94"
Weight 0.9 oz (25.5 g) 0.9 oz (25.5 g)

Pin Configuration and Descriptions

The CC BEC 2.0 has a simple wiring interface for easy integration into RC systems. Below is the pin configuration:

Pin/Wire Color Description
Red Wire Positive output voltage (VOUT)
Black Wire Ground (GND)
Yellow Wire Signal wire for programming (optional)
Input Wires Two thicker wires for battery input (polarity marked)

Usage Instructions

How to Use the CC BEC 2.0 in a Circuit

  1. Connect the Input Wires: Attach the input wires to the main battery pack of your RC system. Ensure correct polarity (positive and negative terminals are clearly marked).
  2. Connect the Output Wires: Connect the red (positive) and black (ground) output wires to the receiver or other electronics requiring power.
  3. Adjust the Output Voltage (if necessary):
    • Use the Castle Link USB programming kit or a Castle Field Link card to adjust the output voltage.
    • Connect the yellow signal wire to the programming device and follow the manufacturer's software instructions.
  4. Secure the BEC: Mount the CC BEC 2.0 securely in your RC vehicle using double-sided tape or zip ties to prevent movement during operation.

Important Considerations and Best Practices

  • Voltage Compatibility: Ensure the output voltage is compatible with the connected electronics to avoid damage.
  • Heat Dissipation: The CC BEC 2.0 is highly efficient, but it may generate heat under high loads. Install it in a location with adequate airflow.
  • Current Limits: Do not exceed the maximum continuous current rating of 15A to prevent overheating or damage.
  • Programming: Use the Castle Link software to fine-tune the output voltage and other settings for optimal performance.

Example: Connecting to an Arduino UNO

The CC BEC 2.0 can be used to power an Arduino UNO in projects requiring a stable voltage source. Below is an example of how to connect it:

  1. Set the output voltage of the CC BEC 2.0 to 5V using the Castle Link software.
  2. Connect the red wire (VOUT) to the Arduino's 5V pin.
  3. Connect the black wire (GND) to the Arduino's GND pin.
// Example Arduino code to test power delivery from the CC BEC 2.0
void setup() {
  pinMode(LED_BUILTIN, OUTPUT); // Set the built-in LED pin as an output
}

void loop() {
  digitalWrite(LED_BUILTIN, HIGH); // Turn the LED on
  delay(1000);                     // Wait for 1 second
  digitalWrite(LED_BUILTIN, LOW);  // Turn the LED off
  delay(1000);                     // Wait for 1 second
}

Troubleshooting and FAQs

Common Issues and Solutions

  1. BEC Overheating:

    • Cause: Exceeding the maximum current rating or poor airflow.
    • Solution: Reduce the load on the BEC or improve ventilation around the component.
  2. Output Voltage Not Stable:

    • Cause: Incorrect input voltage or damaged wiring.
    • Solution: Verify the input voltage is within the specified range and check all connections for damage or loose wires.
  3. Receiver or Servos Not Powering On:

    • Cause: Incorrect output voltage setting or wiring issue.
    • Solution: Use the Castle Link software to confirm the output voltage is set correctly. Double-check all connections.
  4. Programming Issues:

    • Cause: Yellow signal wire not connected properly to the programming device.
    • Solution: Ensure the yellow wire is securely connected to the Castle Link or Field Link device and follow the software instructions.

FAQs

Q: Can I use the CC BEC 2.0 with a 3S LiPo battery?
A: Yes, both the Standard and HV versions support 3S LiPo batteries. Ensure the input voltage is within the specified range.

Q: How do I know if the BEC is overheating?
A: The BEC may shut down or reduce output power if it overheats. Check for excessive heat during operation and ensure proper airflow.

Q: Can I power multiple servos with the CC BEC 2.0?
A: Yes, as long as the total current draw does not exceed the maximum continuous current rating of 15A.

Q: Is the CC BEC 2.0 waterproof?
A: No, the CC BEC 2.0 is not waterproof. Protect it from water exposure to avoid damage.

By following this documentation, users can effectively integrate the Castle Creations CC BEC 2.0 into their RC systems for reliable and efficient power management.