Introduction
Congratulations on choosing the 9IMOD AM32 30A Brushless ESC! This Electronic Speed Controller (ESC) is designed for RC 1/18 and 1/24 Crawler Cars, including models like Axial SCX24 and TRX4M. It features AM32 custom firmware, optimized for smooth and quiet operation.
This manual provides essential information for the safe and effective use of your ESC. Please read these instructions, warnings, and safety notes carefully before using the product for the first time.
Product Overview
The 9IMOD AM32 30A Brushless ESC is a compact and powerful electronic speed controller. It comes with pre-soldered wires for easy installation and features an indicator light for operational status.
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand Name | 9IMOD |
| Battery Input | 2-3S Lipo (Recommended 3S) |
| Current | 20A (Maximum 30A) |
| Momentary Current (10s) | 80A |
| BEC | Continuous 1A (max 2A) output 6.0V, non-adjustable |
| Motor Compatibility | 1224/1621/2204 Brushless Motor |
| Four-wheel Drive Attributes | Assemblage |
| Remote Control Peripherals/Devices | ESC |
| Material | Composite Material |
| Dimensions | 285 x 19 x 9mm |
| Weight | 15g |
| Recommended Age | 14+y |
| Origin | Mainland China |
Setup and Connection
Connecting to a Power Source
The ESC supports two DC input methods:
- DC Input (10-28V): Connect to a compatible DC power source.
- PD Input (12-20V): Connect using a PD power supply.
Connecting the Battery
WARNING: To avoid short circuits, always power the charger first via the DC or PD port, then connect the battery to the Charge Port. When disconnecting, reverse the sequence.
The ESC features pre-soldered wires for convenience. Ensure proper polarity when connecting the battery.
Lithium Battery Connection with Balance Adapter
For safety, it is highly recommended to charge Lithium batteries (LiPo, Li-ion, LiFe, and LiHV) using Balance CHG mode, unless the battery lacks a balance wire. Ensure the balance wire is connected to the charger, with the black wire aligned with the negative marking. Check the polarity for correct connection.
NiMH Battery Connection with Balance Adapter
Connect your NiMH battery to the appropriate ports on the ESC.
Indicator Light
The ESC is equipped with an indicator light. It will illuminate after a successful connection and remain on during use. Note: The remote must be adjusted to the neutral position for the ESC to connect.
Operating Modes
The ESC supports various operating modes for different battery types:
| Battery Type | Working Mode | Description |
|---|---|---|
| LiPo/LiFe/Li-ion/LiHV | Balance CHG | Charges lithium battery in balance mode to ensure each cell's voltage is balanced. Balance lead must be connected. |
| Charge | Charges lithium battery without requiring a balance lead connection. | |
| Storage | Stores battery by charging or discharging to a specific storage value. | |
| Discharge | Discharges lithium battery to a specific value, which can be set before discharging. | |
| NiMH/NiCd | Charge | Charges NiMH/NiCd battery based on the selected charging rate. |
| Re-Peak | Charges battery twice in a row automatically, useful for ensuring full charge. | |
| C_D Cycle | 1 to 5 cyclic charge>discharge processes for refreshing/restoring performance. | |
| D_C Cycle | 1 to 5 cyclic discharge>charge processes for refreshing/restoring performance. | |
| Discharge | Discharges NiMH/NiCd battery based on the selected discharging rate. | |
| Pb (Lead-Acid) | Normal | Charges Pb battery based on the selected charging rate. |
| AGM Charge | Charges AGM battery based on the selected charging rate. | |
| Cold Charge | Charges Pb battery under low temperature based on the selected charging rate. | |
| Discharge | Discharges Pb battery based on the selected discharging rate. |
Operating Instructions
The ESC's operation is guided by its AM32 custom firmware, designed for safe, fast, smooth, and linear throttling. It is suitable for various vehicle types and flight controllers.
Program Flow Chart
The following chart illustrates the general program flow for operating the ESC. Specific steps for different battery types are detailed below.
Lithium Battery Program (LiPo/LiFe/Li-ion/LiHV)
To initiate a program for Lithium batteries:
- From the main screen, press the Enter button to access Charge Settings.
- Select the desired Battery Type (LiPo, LiFe, Li-ion, or LiHV).
- Set the Battery Cells (e.g., 1S-6S).
- Select the Task (e.g., Balance CHG, Charge, Storage, Discharge).
- Adjust the Condition (cut-off voltage) and Charge Current as needed.
- Confirm to start the program.
WARNING: Do not connect the battery before turning on the charger!
NiMH/NiCd Battery Program
To initiate a program for NiMH/NiCd batteries:
- From the main screen, press the Enter button to access Charge Settings.
- Select the Battery Type (NiMH or NiCd).
- Set the Battery Cells (e.g., 1S-15S).
- Select the Task (e.g., Charge, Re-Peak, C_D Cycle, D_C Cycle, Discharge).
- Adjust the Condition (cut-off voltage) and Charge Current as needed.
- Confirm to start the program.
For Re-Peak mode, ensure rest times are set appropriately.
Pb Lead-Acid Battery Program
To initiate a program for Pb Lead-Acid batteries:
- From the main screen, press the Enter button to access Charge Settings.
- Select the Battery Type (Pb).
- Set the Battery Cells (e.g., 3S/6S).
- Select the Task (e.g., Normal, AGM Charge, Cold Charge, Discharge).
- Adjust the Charge Current as needed. (Note: There is no option to change the condition for Pb batteries).
- Confirm to start the program.
DC Power Function
The ESC can also function as a DC power supply:
- On the main interface, hold the Enter button for a few seconds to enter System Settings.
- Select 'DC Power' and adjust the output voltage and current.
- Start to activate the power function.
- Connect your desired DC device.
Voltage Calibration
To calibrate the voltage:
- Connect a 6S battery to the balance port.
- On the main screen (battery voltage detection page), briefly press the Enter button to enter the cell voltage page.
- Simultaneously press and hold the Up and Down buttons to enter the calibration page.
- Use the Up/Down buttons to check and select the desired voltage.
- Adjust the value using the Up or Down buttons.
- After calibration, press the Enter button to confirm.
- Press and hold the Enter button to save the updated values.
Battery Voltage Meter
You can check battery voltage in two ways:
- Method 1 (During Charging): During the charging process, press the Enter button on the main screen to switch between the main display and the battery voltage values.
- Method 2 (Direct Connection): Connect the lithium battery's balance connector directly to the charger's balance port. The charger will automatically power on and display the battery voltage.
- Method 3 (System Settings): After connecting the charger to the power supply, press and hold the Enter button to enter System Settings. Select 'Battery Meter', then connect the battery to the balance port. Press the Enter button to detect voltage and use Up/Down to view individual cell voltages.
Battery Resistance Meter
You can check battery internal resistance in two ways:
- Method 1 (During Charging): During the charging process, press the Enter button on the main screen to switch between the main display and the internal resistance values of each cell.
- Method 2 (System Settings): Connect the charger to the power supply, then press and hold the Enter button to enter System Settings. Select 'Battery Meter', and connect the battery to the charger, ensuring the balance port is connected. Press the Enter button to measure internal resistance and use Up/Down to view individual cell resistance values.
Maintenance
Firmware Upgrade
To ensure optimal performance and access to the latest features, it is recommended to keep your ESC's firmware updated.
- Launch the 'Charger Master' software on your computer. It will automatically detect the ESC.
- If detected, click to check for firmware updates.
- If a new version is available, an 'Update' button will appear.
- Click 'Update' and wait for the process to complete.
WARNING: DO NOT power off or exit the program during the upgrade process!
Troubleshooting: Errors Explained
In case of a fault, the ESC may display an error message. Refer to the table below for troubleshooting based on the error code:
| Error Message | Explanation |
|---|---|
| DC In Too Low! | DC input voltage is lower than preset. |
| DC In Too High! | DC input voltage is higher than preset. |
| Connection Break! | The battery may be broken. |
| Cell Error! | The cells do not match. |
| Battery Type! | The battery type is wrong. |
| Overcharge Capacity Limit! | The charged capacity reaches the preset capacity limit. |
| Over Time Limit! | The program is timed out. |
| Int. Temp. Too High! | The internal temperature is high. |
| Over Load! | The charger is overloaded. |
| Reversed Polarity! | The battery connection is reversed. |
| Fully Charged! | The battery is already fully charged. |
| Outlet Volt. Too Low! | The DC output voltage is too low. |
| Outlet Overload! | The DC output is overloaded. |
| Balance Connection Error! | An error occurred with the balance connection. |
| Cell Volt Diff.! | The voltage difference between each cell is high. |
| Set Power Error! | There is an error in setting the DC power. |
User Tips
- Solid Connections: Users report solid connections and good quality, often superior to other AM32 ESCs.
- BEC Considerations: The built-in BEC provides 6.0V at 1A (max 2A). If your setup requires higher current for servos or other accessories, consider using an external BEC.
- Heat Management: The ESC is designed with a clear heat shrink tube. While compact, ensure adequate airflow around the ESC, especially during demanding use, to prevent overheating. Some users note the heat shrink might impede airflow to the heatsink fins; monitor temperatures during initial runs.
- Software Adjustments: The ESC uses AM32 custom firmware. For adjustments and configuration, you will need to use the 'Charger Master' software. If you encounter issues connecting for adjustments, ensure your software and drivers are up to date.
Warranty and Support
Liability Exclusion
This charger is designed and approved exclusively for use with the types of battery stated in this Instruction Manual. SkyRC accepts no liability of any kind if the charger is used for any purpose other than that stated. SkyRC is not responsible for loss, damage, or costs incurred due to incompetent or incorrect use and operation of its products.
Warranty and Service
The product is guaranteed to be free of manufacturing and assembly defects for a period of one year from the time of purchase. The warranty applies only to material or operational defects present at the time of purchase. During this period, defective products will be repaired or replaced free of service charge.
This warranty is not valid for any damage or subsequent damage arising from misuse, modification, or failure to observe the procedures outlined in this manual.
Note:
- The warranty service is valid in China only.
- For overseas warranty service, please contact your dealer in the first instance. Due to high shipping costs and complicated customs clearance procedures, SkyRC cannot provide direct warranty service to overseas end users.
- For any questions not covered in this manual, please email info@skyrc.com.
A detailed user manual in PDF format is available for download. Please refer to the official SkyRC website or the provided link for the latest version: User Manual (PDF)