1. Introduction
Thank you for purchasing the E-flite 60-Amp Pro Switch-Mode BEC Brushless ESC V2 (EFLA1060B). This Electronic Speed Control (ESC) is designed for use with brushless motors in RC aircraft, providing reliable power delivery and integrated functionality. Please read this manual thoroughly before installation and operation to ensure safe and optimal performance of your model.
2. Safety Precautions
Failure to follow these safety guidelines may result in property damage, personal injury, or death. Always operate your RC model responsibly.
- Battery Safety: Always use appropriate Li-Po or Ni-MH/Ni-Cd batteries as specified. Never short-circuit battery terminals. Disconnect the battery when not in use.
- Motor Safety: Brushless motors can generate significant power. Keep hands and loose clothing away from rotating propellers or rotors.
- ESC Placement: Ensure adequate airflow around the ESC to prevent overheating. Mount securely to prevent vibration damage.
- Wiring: Double-check all connections for correct polarity and secure fit before applying power. Incorrect wiring can cause damage to the ESC, motor, or battery.
- Water and Moisture: Keep the ESC away from water and moisture. This unit is not waterproof.
- Children: This product is not a toy. Keep out of reach of children under 14 years of age. Adult supervision is required for users under 18.
3. Product Overview
The E-flite 60-Amp Pro Switch-Mode BEC Brushless ESC V2 is a high-performance electronic speed control designed for various RC aircraft applications. It features an integrated switch-mode BEC (Battery Eliminator Circuit) for efficient power supply to your receiver and servos, eliminating the need for a separate receiver battery.
Image 1: The E-flite 60-Amp Pro Switch-Mode BEC Brushless ESC V2 with its heat sink, capacitors, and various connectors for battery, motor, and receiver.
Key Features:
- Up to 60 amps continuous current with proper air flow and 75 amps burst current (15 seconds).
- 5A continuous current, 5V switch-mode BEC circuit (proper cooling and airflow required).
- Stronger BEC for support of most 3-axis stabilization systems.
- Drives up to 7 analog or 6 digital standard-sized servos with the BEC on any recommended input voltage.
- Supports 3- to 6-cell Li-Po, 9- to 18-cell Ni-MH/Ni-Cd input voltage.
- Finned heat sinks for improved thermal management.
- Programmable motor braking.
- Safe power-arm mode prevents accidental starts.
- Programmable low voltage cutoff with settings for 3-cell Li-Po (9V), 4-cell Li-Po (12V), 5-cell Li-Po (15V), 6-cell Li-Po (18V) or 74% of battery starting voltage.
- Programmable throttle input range (1.1ms–1.9ms or 1.2ms–1.8ms).
- Programmable soft start for helis and airplanes.
- Auto motor shut down if signal is lost or there is interference.
- Programmable timing—5 user-selectable ranges for use with a large variety of brushless motors.
- Utilizes new smaller MOSFET technology to minimize weight.
- Radio system power on/off switch.
- Pre-wired connectors—E-flite EC3 connector on battery input and 3.5mm gold bullet connectors on motor output leads.
4. Setup Instructions
4.1 Wiring Connections
Carefully connect the ESC to your motor, battery, and receiver as described below. Ensure all connections are secure and correct before powering on.
- Motor Connection: Connect the three 3.5mm gold bullet connectors from the ESC to the corresponding motor wires. The order of these wires determines the motor's rotation direction. If the motor spins in the wrong direction, swap any two of the three motor wires.
- Battery Connection: Connect the E-flite EC3 connector from the ESC to your compatible Li-Po or Ni-MH/Ni-Cd battery. Ensure correct polarity (red to positive, black to negative).
- Receiver Connection: Plug the BEC output cable (usually a standard servo connector) from the ESC into the throttle channel of your receiver. The BEC provides power to the receiver and servos, so no separate receiver battery is needed.
- On/Off Switch: Utilize the integrated radio system power on/off switch to control power to the receiver and servos.
4.2 Mounting the ESC
Mount the ESC in a location that allows for adequate airflow to the finned heat sinks. This is crucial for maintaining optimal operating temperatures and preventing thermal shutdown. Use double-sided foam tape or zip ties to secure the ESC firmly within the aircraft fuselage, away from sources of vibration or interference.
4.3 Throttle Range Calibration
For proper operation, the ESC's throttle range must be calibrated to your radio transmitter. Refer to your transmitter's manual for specific instructions on setting throttle endpoints. Generally, the process involves:
- Turn on your transmitter and set the throttle stick to its maximum position.
- Connect the flight battery to the ESC. The ESC will emit a series of beeps.
- Once the ESC recognizes the maximum throttle signal, it will emit a confirmation tone.
- Move the throttle stick to its minimum position. The ESC will emit another confirmation tone, indicating the throttle range is set.
- Disconnect the battery to save the setting.
4.4 Programming Options
The E-flite 60-Amp Pro ESC V2 offers several programmable options to fine-tune its performance for your specific aircraft and motor combination. These settings can typically be adjusted using your transmitter stick movements or a dedicated programming card (sold separately).
- Brake Setting: Enable or disable motor braking.
- Low Voltage Cutoff (LVC): Select the appropriate LVC voltage for your battery type (Li-Po cells or percentage of starting voltage).
- Throttle Input Range: Adjust for compatibility with different transmitters (1.1ms–1.9ms or 1.2ms–1.8ms).
- Soft Start: Configure for smoother motor startup, especially useful for helicopters or models requiring gentle acceleration.
- Motor Timing: Choose from 5 user-selectable ranges to optimize efficiency and power with various brushless motors. Consult your motor's specifications for recommended timing.
Refer to the detailed programming instructions provided with the ESC or on the E-flite website for a complete guide on accessing and modifying these settings.
5. Operating Instructions
5.1 Pre-Flight Check
Before each flight, perform the following checks:
- Ensure all wiring connections are secure.
- Verify the battery is fully charged and properly connected.
- Check that the propeller/rotor is securely attached and free from damage.
- Confirm the radio system is functioning correctly and the throttle stick is at its lowest position.
5.2 Power-Up Sequence
Follow this sequence to power up your aircraft safely:
- Turn on your radio transmitter.
- Ensure the throttle stick is at the lowest position.
- Connect the flight battery to the ESC.
- Turn on the ESC's integrated power switch (if applicable and separate from battery connection).
- The ESC will initialize and emit a series of tones, indicating battery cell count and readiness.
- The ESC will enter "Safe Power-Arm Mode," preventing accidental motor starts until the throttle is advanced past a certain point.
5.3 During Flight
Monitor your aircraft's performance and battery voltage. The programmable low voltage cutoff will reduce motor power or shut down the motor to protect your battery from over-discharge. If signal is lost or interference occurs, the auto motor shut down feature will activate for safety.
5.4 Post-Flight
After each flight:
- Turn off the ESC's power switch (if applicable).
- Disconnect the flight battery from the ESC.
- Turn off your radio transmitter.
- Allow the ESC to cool down before handling or storing.
6. Maintenance
Proper maintenance ensures the longevity and reliable performance of your ESC.
- Cleaning: Keep the ESC clean and free from dust, dirt, and debris. Use a soft brush or compressed air to gently clean the heat sinks and connectors.
- Inspection: Regularly inspect all wires and connectors for signs of wear, fraying, or corrosion. Replace damaged components immediately.
- Storage: Store the ESC in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- Cooling: Ensure that the ESC always has adequate cooling during operation. Overheating can significantly reduce its lifespan.
7. Troubleshooting Guide
This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your E-flite 60-Amp Pro ESC V2.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Motor does not start or stutters. | Incorrect motor wiring; throttle not calibrated; low battery voltage; motor timing incorrect. | Check motor wire connections; recalibrate throttle range; charge battery; adjust motor timing. |
| ESC overheats. | Insufficient airflow; motor/propeller combination too large; excessive current draw. | Improve ESC ventilation; use a smaller propeller or different motor; check for binding in drivetrain. |
| Motor runs in the wrong direction. | Incorrect motor wire connection order. | Swap any two of the three motor wires. |
| No power to receiver/servos. | BEC cable disconnected; ESC power switch off; damaged BEC circuit. | Ensure BEC cable is securely plugged into receiver; turn on ESC power switch; contact support if BEC is damaged. |
| Motor cuts out during flight. | Low Voltage Cutoff (LVC) activated; signal loss/interference. | Charge battery fully; check battery health; ensure good radio link and minimize interference. |
8. Specifications
Detailed technical specifications for the E-flite 60-Amp Pro Switch-Mode BEC Brushless ESC V2 (EFLA1060B):
- Continuous Current: 60 Amps (with proper airflow)
- Burst Current: 75 Amps (15 seconds)
- BEC Type: Switch-Mode
- BEC Output: 5A continuous, 5V
- Input Voltage: 3-6 Cell Li-Po, 9-18 Cell Ni-MH/Ni-Cd
- Motor Connectors: 3.5mm Gold Bullet
- Battery Connector: E-flite EC3
- Dimensions (L x W x H): Approximately 8 x 4.5 x 0.79 inches
- Weight: Approximately 2.08 ounces
- Programmable Features: Motor Braking, Low Voltage Cutoff, Throttle Input Range, Soft Start, Motor Timing.
- Compatible Devices: RC Aircraft, Helicopters, Airplanes
9. Warranty and Support
E-flite products are manufactured to high standards. For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please contact Horizon Hobby customer service. Keep your proof of purchase for any warranty claims.
Manufacturer: Horizon Hobby
For the most up-to-date support information, visit the official E-flite or Horizon Hobby website.
