Do you have a question about the HobbyKing YEP Series and is the answer not in the manual?
Sets Lipo battery type (2S-6S) and auto-detection for ESC.
Configures NiCd/NiMh battery type and under-voltage limit for ESC.
Step-by-step guide for initial ESC configuration and throttle calibration.
Specific advice for helicopter pilots regarding throttle stick input for autorotation.
Accessing and navigating the advanced configuration options for the ESC.
Adjusts brake force and activation for the ESC.
Selects between NiMh, Auto, or Reserved battery types for the ESC.
Configures motor timing from 0° to 30° or uses Autotiming.
Sets the PWM switching rate from 8 KHz to 16 KHz.
Enables or disables the governor mode for speed regulation.
The YEP Series of Electronic Speed Controllers are designed to manage and regulate the speed of electric motors in various applications, offering a range of customizable features for optimal performance and safety. These controllers are particularly suited for models requiring precise motor control and battery management.
The primary function of the YEP Series ESCs is to convert the DC power from a battery into a variable AC current to drive brushless electric motors, thereby controlling their speed and direction. They incorporate advanced features for efficient power delivery and motor protection.
The ESCs offer flexible motor timing adjustments, with 6 steps of adjustable timing or an automatic timing adjustment feature. This allows users to fine-tune motor efficiency and performance based on the specific motor and application. The PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) frequency is also adjustable from 8 KHz to 16 KHz in 1 KHz steps. Higher frequencies are beneficial for low inductive motors, while lower frequencies can reduce switching losses.
The controllers are compatible with both Lipo (Lithium Polymer) and NiMh (Nickel-Metal Hydride) battery types, with an auto-detection feature for Lipo cells (2-6S, up to 14 cells). For reliable operation, especially with Lipo packs, the ESC performs an acoustic control check upon power-on to confirm the correct battery type and cell count. It is crucial to use fully charged battery packs for accurate cell recognition, particularly with higher cell counts, to prevent premature under-voltage protection triggers. The under-voltage protection is set at a conservative 3.1V per cell for Lipo batteries, which helps prolong battery life. For NiMh batteries, the under-voltage limit is approximately 0.65 times the open circuit voltage of each cell. A fixed under-voltage limit can also be programmed using the Prog Card II, which also supports LiFePo battery packs.
The ESCs feature an adjustable brake, with the amount and speed proportional to the soft-start setting. This allows for smooth motor stops and controlled deceleration. The soft-start function ensures a gradual increase in motor speed, preventing sudden jolts and reducing stress on the motor and drivetrain components.
The controllers are designed to fully utilize the throttle stick range, which can be programmed in the RC-Setup. This ensures precise control over motor speed across the entire throttle input spectrum.
An active free-wheel feature is included, which can be enabled or disabled via the Prog Card II. This feature reduces losses in the partial load range, improving efficiency. However, in rare cases, it can lead to rougher transitions from partial loads to full loads and may affect speed controller mode switching when using full power.
The ESCs offer two main programming modes: Basic-Setup and Advanced-Setup.
Basic-Setup: This mode is designed for initial setup and essential configurations. It involves a sequence of throttle stick movements and auditory feedback (beeps) to set parameters such as neutral throttle position, brake activation, and soft-start. The process ensures that the ESC recognizes the desired settings before arming. For extremely fast response, particularly in non-helicopter applications, a "Quick Start" option is available, which bypasses some soft-start delays. However, users are cautioned that very fast response times can lead to higher current draw and should be used judiciously.
Advanced-Setup: This mode provides access to more detailed parameters after the Basic-Setup has been performed at least once. It involves a similar sequence of throttle stick movements and auditory cues to navigate through various menu options, including Brake, Battery-Type, Timing, PWM-Frequency, and Governor mode. Only one menu option can be selected at a time, and the selection is confirmed by auditory feedback.
The Governor mode, when activated, allows the ESC to maintain a constant motor RPM regardless of load changes. After setting the speed regulation, the ESC learns the operating speed at the next start. It is important to wait for a small speed jump, indicating that the regulation has been activated, before proceeding.
The ESCs rely heavily on an auditory feedback system, using various beep sequences to communicate status and programming steps. For example, a monotonous continuous beep indicates programming mode, descending beeps signify signal reception, and ascending beeps confirm the ESC is armed. Specific beep patterns are used to identify Lipo cell counts (e.g., two identical beeps for 2S Lipo, three for 3S Lipo). For higher cell counts (more than 6), the system uses two high-pitch beeps followed by two low-pitch beeps, simplifying the recognition process.
While many settings can be adjusted via the transmitter, the Prog Card II offers a more convenient and comprehensive way to program and fine-tune the ESC parameters. This external device simplifies complex configurations and allows for precise adjustments that might be cumbersome with stick programming alone. It is recommended for setting the number of cells permanently, especially with high cell counts, and for programming fixed under-voltage limits.
The ESC provides clear auditory feedback for critical conditions, such as incorrect signal reception during programming. If continuous beeps are not heard during setup, users are instructed to immediately disconnect the battery and try again, ensuring the transmitter is within range of the receiver. This immediate feedback helps in troubleshooting and ensures correct setup.
The manual emphasizes several safety protocols, such as ensuring the ESC is off before connecting the battery and holding the model securely during setup. It also highlights the importance of correct battery cell detection to prevent premature under-voltage protection or, conversely, late triggering that could damage the battery. For helicopter pilots, specific instructions are given regarding throttle stick position during auto-rotation training to prevent inadvertent auto-rotation aborts and ensure the motor maintains a certain RPM.
The ESC continuously monitors its settings, providing feedback through beeps that always start with the current setting. This allows users to confirm the active configuration and make informed adjustments. After setting any parameter, moving the stick back to the full back position will arm the ESC, or it can be disconnected and reconnected to allow setting of other parameters, providing flexibility in the programming workflow.
| Type | Brushless ESC |
|---|---|
| Programming | Card programming |
| Features | Low voltage cutoff |
| Input Voltage | 2S-6S LiPo |
| PWM Frequency | 8KHz |
| Weight | Varies by model |
| Dimensions | Varies by model |
| Protection Features | Low voltage cutoff |
| BEC | Yes (linear or switching, depending on the specific model) |
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