bbfwd

Hi guys,

I have a switching power supply with variable voltage 5v to 15v. It says in the instruction not to run motors from it. Why is that? Would I be able to connect an ESC to the power supply and run the motor that way? The reason is I would like to test the motor at lower and higher voltages (within reason).

Thanks!

andsetinn

If the SMPS can deliver enough "clean" (steady voltage) amps it shouldn't be a problem to run motor or ESC from it. If the output is "dirty" (choppy voltage) it might kill your ESC.

Since the ESC is switching the motor (big load) on and off at high frequency, the ESC might kill your SMPS. Check manufacturers specs.

Ideally you'd get Oscilloscope and monitor the voltage from the SMPS at load to see if it's safe.

Adjustable voltage SMPS are usually too low amperes to run motors from.

XrayFK

iTrader: (1)

What about using a charger? Most of the current chargers have some sort of run in mode. If you know anyone with a GFX, ask them if they can do it for you.

bbfwd

My power supply is rated at 30Amps continuous, which I think should be enough for low power motors under no load. You stated that the ESC's switching may kill the SMPS. What would remedy this? Could a large capacitor smooth out the on/off load? What if I run the motor directly off of the power supply? Would this be unsafe? Why? Is it the back EMF?

XrayFK

iTrader: (1)

Diodes prevent back EMF

bbfwd

Would it be safe, then, if I added a schottky diode to the motor? What would be a good rating for the diode?

Iceracer

iTrader: (1)

I'd be inclined to follow the instructions. The switching supply may not like inductive loads. What was this supply made for?

bbfwd

It's this power supply, from KO propo:

http://www.shopatron.com/product/pro...0.4839.0.0.0.0