Turnigy Aquastar ESC 120A - User Manual

Warnings
· Strongly recommend to calibrate the throttle range of transmitter when you first use the controller or
when using a new/different transmitter or receiver.
·When connecting the ESC to battery pack, please ensure the polarity is correct. Incorrect polarity may cause
permanent damage to the ESC and such damage is not covered by manufacturer’s WARRANTY.
·When you use the ESC, turn on the transmitter BEFORE powering on the receiver.
·When you finish the running, power off the receiver BEFORE turning off the transmitter.
·Changing the PWM may cause the motor to heat ahead of time.
·Never disconnect the battery pack while the motor is running, as this could cause damage to the speed
controller and/or motor.
·Connectors with low conductivity may cause erratic motor rotations or other unexpected
movements.
·If you do not use the BEC function of the ESC and are using a separate receiver pack or UBEC to power
receiver and servos instead, please disconnect the red wire from the ESC’s receiver lead.
·The controller will automatically power off the motor if the battery voltage drops below the programmed
cut-off voltage (factory preset at ‘6.0V’).
Thanks for purchasing Turnigy
®
AQUASTAR ESC speed controllers. Turnigy
®
AQUASTAR ESC are
specifically developed to supply stable and strong power for r/c model boats beyond you expected.
Please read the instruction booklet carefully before use.

Summary

Warnings and Precautions

Calibration Procedure

Recommends calibrating the throttle range for new transmitters or receivers.

Power Safety and Sequencing

Emphasizes correct polarity, power on/off sequence, and avoiding disconnection while running.

Operational Warnings

Warns about PWM heat, connector conductivity, BEC usage, and low voltage cutoff.

ESC Features Overview

Key ESC Features

Lists features like microprocessor control, waterproofing, full protection, programming methods, and compatibility.

Technical Specifications

Throttle Range Calibration

Board Style Transmitter Calibration

Step-by-step guide for calibrating board-style transmitters for ESC setup.

Pistol Style Transmitter Calibration

Step-by-step guide for calibrating pistol-style transmitters for ESC setup.

ESC Programming Options

Programmable ESC Settings

Details adjustable parameters like LVC, brake type, timing advance, and PWM rate.

ESC Programming Methods

Programming via TX Stick

Explains how to program the ESC directly using the transmitter's control stick.

Programming via LCD Program Box

Details using the Turnigy LCD program box for ESC configuration.

Programming via PC Software

Explains the process of programming the ESC using dedicated software on a computer.

Ready for Operation

Software Installation to PC

System Requirements

Lists the necessary computer hardware and operating system for software installation.

Hardware Components

Identifies the included hardware: ESC, USB Linker, and setup CD.

Software Installation Steps

Provides a guide on how to install the Turnigy Aquastar ESC software from the CD.

Driver Installation

Silicon Labs CP210 x VCP Driver Installation

Details the installation process for the Silicon Labs CP210x VCP drivers.

Software Installation Confirmation

Confirms successful installation of the Turnigy Aquastar ESC software.

ESC Programming via USB

Connecting USB Linker

Instructions for connecting the USB linker to the ESC and PC.

Identifying COM Port

Guide to finding the correct COM port in Device Manager for ESC communication.

ESC Parameter Adjustment

Using the ESC Software

Steps to open the software, connect ESC, and adjust parameters.

Saving Parameter Modifications

Instructions on how to save changes made to ESC parameters.

Firmware Upgrade Procedure

Accessing Firmware Upgrade

Steps to navigate to the firmware upgrade utility within the software.

Upgrading ESC Firmware

Guide to selecting the firmware file and initiating the upgrade process.

ESC Settings Features

Low Cut-off Voltage Options

Details various low voltage cutoff settings for battery protection.

Brake Type Options

Describes different brake types: disabled, soft brake, and hard brake.

Timing Advance Options

Explains recommended timing advance settings for various motor types.

Additional ESC Settings

Cutoff Type Options

Details options for hard cutoff and soft cutoff upon reaching low voltage.

Start Type Options

Describes soft start, standard start, and fast start options for motor startup.

PWM Switching Rate Options

Recommends PWM switching rates for different types of brushless motors.

Operational Flowchart

Main Loop Programming Flowchart

Visual guide illustrating the main loop for programming the ESC using the throttle.

Turnigy Aquastar ESC 120A Specifications