VEX ESC
(modified)
Voltage: 8.5V official,
14.8V reported
Current: 3A official
Dimensions: 0.6 x 1.1
x 0.21 inches without
case
Cost: $9.99
Features: Modifiable.
Comments: The VEX
ESC is an odd case in
that you have to modify the controller to get the most
out of it. When properly modified, the VEX ESC is a
highly capable unit for the 1-3 lb classes. The modified
VEX ESCs have been gaining in popularity, and
recently have become available pre-modified through
Titan TechIndustries.com for $19.99. If you’re looking
for a cheap, compact, no frills ESC for the 1-3 lb class,
the modified VEX ESC is a solid option.
Special Note: Modification documentation is available
at http://thevariableconstant.blogspot.com/
2013/05/thrifty-roboting-vex-motor-
controller-29.html.
Robot Power
Wasp
Voltage: 6.5V-28V
Current: 10A
continuous, 30A peak
Dimensions: 0.65 x
1.85 x 0.44 inches
Weight: 9.0 g
Cost: $69.99
Features: Full current
limiting and overtemp
limiting, limit switch
inputs, BEC if used at or below 18V.
Comments: The Wasp is a compact single channel ESC
from the same company that makes the Scorpion XL and
XXL. The Wasp is best suited for use in 3-12 lb robots;
however, due to its small size, caution must be used
when attempting to use it in a 12 lb robot as many
common 12 lb drive solutions can stall well in excess of
the 30A limit.
While you may not fry the controller, the overtemp
protection may result in the robot stopping in the middle
of a match if you spend too much time near
the current limit.
30:1 Micro
Gearmotor
(0-PL1093)
Dimensions: 0.94 x
0.47 x 0.93 inches
( 24 x 12 x 10 mm)
Nominal Voltage:
6V
RPM: 1,000
Stall Torque:
0.5 in-lbs
Stall Current: 1.6A
Shaft: 3 mm
Weight: 0.34 oz
Cost: $15.95
Comments: This gearmotor is one of many variations of
the same design. Two of the major sources for variations
of this gearmotor are robotmarketplace.com and
botbitz.com. These gearboxes are frequently used in the
150 g and 1 lb classes, and are a decent option. In the
1 lb class, you will likely need four if you are not planning
on a weapon focused machine. It is also advisable to
protect or cover the exposed gears to prevent jamming
or unnecessary damage during operation. The short shaft
limits wheel options and makes external shaft support
difficult. If you want an extremely light, compact
gearmotor for a 150 g to 1 lb bot, this is
worth considering.
FingerTech
Robotics
Silver Spark
(11:1 - 50:1)
Dimensions: 0.63 in
( 16 mm) diameter,
1.58-1.63 inches long
Nominal Voltage: 6V
RPM: 850 for 11:1;
189 for 50:1
SERVO 12.2013 25
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Product Spectrum:
Gearmotors for Bots 30 lbs
and Under
There are quite a few good drive options available for obots 30 lbs and under. In the case of some of the
gearmotors presented here, they are representative of
several options and/or competing products that have
essentially the same parts. They may be different ratios
from the same manufacturer or several variants on the
same gearbox from multiple sources.
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