1. Safety Information
WARNING: Read the ENTIRE instruction manual to become familiar with the features of the product before operating. Failure to operate the product correctly can result in damage to the product, personal property and cause serious injury. This is a sophisticated hobby product. It must be operated with caution and common sense and requires some basic mechanical ability. Failure to operate this Product in a safe and responsible manner could result in injury or damage to the product or other property. This product is not intended for use by children without direct adult supervision. Do not use with incompatible components or alter this product in any way outside of the instructions provided by Horizon Hobby, LLC. The product manual contains instructions for safety, operation and maintenance. It is essential to read and follow all the instructions and warnings in the manual, prior to assembly, setup or use, in order to operate correctly and avoid damage or serious injury.
2. Product Overview
The E-flite 3 AMP 5V 6V BEC (Battery Eliminator Circuit) is designed to provide a stable and regulated power supply to your receiver and servos in remote control aircraft. It converts a higher input voltage from the main flight battery to a lower, constant voltage (either 5V or 6V, selectable) suitable for sensitive electronic components, eliminating the need for a separate receiver battery.
What's in the Box:
- 1x E-flite 3 AMP 5V 6V BEC
Image: The E-flite 3 AMP 5V 6V BEC (EFLA950) unit, showing the input and output wires with connectors.
3. Specifications
| Model Number | EFLA950 |
| Product Dimensions | 6 x 4 x 0.2 inches |
| Item Weight | 0.352 ounces |
| Manufacturer | Horizon Hobby |
| Recommended Age | 14 years and up |
4. Installation and Setup
The E-flite 3 AMP 5V 6V BEC is designed for straightforward integration into your RC aircraft's power system. Ensure all connections are secure and correct before applying power.
- Identify Connections: The BEC has an input side (typically with a larger connector for the main flight battery) and an output side (typically with a standard receiver connector). Refer to the product image for visual identification.
- Input Connection: Connect the input wires of the BEC to your main flight battery or the appropriate power output from your Electronic Speed Controller (ESC) if it does not have a built-in BEC. Ensure correct polarity (red to positive, black to negative).
- Output Connection: Connect the output wire of the BEC to an available channel on your receiver. This will supply regulated power to the receiver and all connected servos.
- Voltage Selection: The EFLA950 BEC allows selection between 5V and 6V output. Consult the physical unit for any jumpers or switches used to select the desired voltage. Ensure the selected voltage is compatible with your receiver and servos.
- Secure Mounting: Mount the BEC securely within your aircraft using double-sided tape or a similar method, ensuring it is protected from vibration and potential damage.
Image: Close-up of the E-flite 3 AMP 5V 6V BEC (EFLA950), highlighting the input and output connectors for installation reference.
5. Operation
Once installed, the BEC operates automatically to provide a stable voltage to your receiver and servos. Before each use, perform a pre-flight check:
- Power On: Connect your main flight battery. The BEC will power up the receiver and servos.
- Function Check: Verify that all servos respond correctly to control inputs from your transmitter. Check for smooth movement and proper centering.
- Voltage Stability: If possible, use a voltage meter to confirm the output voltage from the BEC is stable and matches your selected 5V or 6V setting.
- Heat Check: After a short period of operation, carefully check the BEC for excessive heat. While some warmth is normal, extreme heat may indicate an overload or issue.
The BEC is designed to handle up to 3 amps of continuous current, which is sufficient for most standard RC aircraft setups. Avoid exceeding this current rating to prevent damage or failure.
6. Maintenance
The E-flite BEC requires minimal maintenance to ensure reliable performance:
- Regular Inspection: Periodically inspect the BEC and its wiring for any signs of damage, fraying, or loose connections.
- Cleanliness: Keep the unit free from dust, dirt, and moisture. Use a soft, dry brush or cloth for cleaning.
- Storage: Store the BEC in a dry, cool environment away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures when not in use.
7. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your E-flite BEC, consider the following troubleshooting steps:
- No Power to Receiver/Servos:
- Check all input and output connections for proper seating and polarity.
- Ensure the main flight battery is charged and connected correctly to the BEC input.
- Verify the BEC's voltage selection (5V/6V) is set appropriately.
- Test the BEC with a different power source or receiver if available to isolate the problem.
- Intermittent Power/Brownouts:
- This can indicate the BEC is being overloaded. Check the current draw of your servos, especially under load.
- Ensure all connections are solid and free from corrosion.
- Consider if the BEC's 3 AMP rating is sufficient for your setup. High-torque or numerous servos may require a higher-rated BEC.
- BEC is Hot:
- Some warmth is normal, but excessive heat suggests an overload. Reduce the load on the BEC or consider a higher-rated unit.
- Ensure adequate airflow around the BEC if it's enclosed.
If problems persist, contact Horizon Hobby customer support for further assistance.
8. Warranty and Support
This E-flite product is manufactured by Horizon Hobby, LLC. For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please refer to the official Horizon Hobby website or contact their customer support directly.
It is recommended to retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
Manufacturer: Horizon Hobby
Website: www.horizonhobby.com
