A hummingbird controller is a type of electronic speed controller (ESC) that is designed specifically for controlling brushless motors used in small, lightweight drones like quadcopters. Hummingbird controllers allow quadcopter motors to spin at the very high speeds required for stable, agile flight while also enabling precise control of motor speed and direction.
How do hummingbird controllers work?
Hummingbird ESCs work by taking the control signal from the quadcopter’s flight controller and rapidly switching the power sent to the motors on and off. By adjusting how long the power is on versus off, the speed of the motors can be varied. The basic operating principles are:
- The flight controller sends a control signal in the form of a varying pulse width modulation (PWM) signal to the ESCs.
- The ESCs interpret the PWM signal and rapidly switch the power to the motors on and off to match the PWM duty cycle.
- A higher duty cycle (longer on time vs. off time) makes the motors spin faster, while a lower duty cycle slows them down.
- Reversing the polarity of the power sent to the motors reverses the direction they spin.
Hummingbird ESCs can switch power to the motors on and off thousands of times per second, enabling very precise control of motor speed and direction. The ESCs also regulate the voltage and current going to each motor for optimal operation.
Key features of hummingbird controllers
Some of the key features that make hummingbird ESCs ideal for quadcopters include:
- High switching frequency – Can switch power to motors on/off up to 32kHz for fine control.
- Fast response – React quickly to changes in control signal to alter motor speed.
- Current limiting – Prevent damage to motors by limiting current when overloaded.
- Voltage regulation– Maintain steady voltage to motors during flight as battery drains.
- Brake mode – Can stop motors rapidly when throttle lowered all the way.
- Input voltage range – Support a wide range of input voltages (e.g. 2S-4S LiPo batteries).
- Size and weight – Compact and lightweight to suit small quadcopters.
- Connectivity – Standard 3-wire connector to motors and servo connectors for signal input.
These capabilities allow hummingbird ESCs to deliver the instant throttle response and precise speed control needed for agile FPV and racing drones while protecting the motors and accommodating various battery voltages.
Types of hummingbird controllers
There are a few common types and sizes of hummingbird ESCs designed for micro and mini quadcopters:
- 6-12A ESCs – For very small brushed motors on micro quads under 250g takeoff weight.
- 15-20A ESCs – For micro quads using smaller brushless motors.
- 20-30A ESCs – For larger motors on 250-300mm mini quads.
- 30A+ ESCs – For larger motors and frames above 250g takeoff weight.
The current rating of the ESC determines how much current it can supply to the motors. Using an ESC with too low current rating can cause overheating and damage, so it’s important to match the rating to your motors. More expensive ESCs tend to have better performance and features.
Setting up hummingbird ESCs
To use hummingbird ESCs in a quadcopter, there are a few key steps:
- Connect the ESC signal wires to the flight controller motor output pins.
- Connect the ESC power wires to the battery +/- terminals (must match battery voltage).
- Connect the ESC output wires to the motors (making sure polarity is correct).
- Calibrate the ESCs so full throttle signal corresponds to maximum RPM.
- Program any special features like brake mode or beeper.
- Test motor response in betaflight configurator.
Proper setup is important for getting the best performance and avoiding issues. The ESC manual will provide calibration and programming instructions specific to that model.
Advantages of hummingbird controllers
Some of the key benefits that make hummingbird ESCs a good choice for mini and micro quads include:
- Smooth throttle response and resolution for precise control.
- High RPM operation for plenty of thrust with small propellers.
- Compact size and light weight keeps overall drone weight low.
- Reliable operation and resistance to noise interference.
- Affordable price from most RC manufacturers.
- Easy to integrate and customize with flight controllers like Betaflight.
By using hobby market hummingbird ESCs designed for RC planes and helicopters, quadcopter builders can get excellent performance in a proven, cost-effective package.
Disadvantages and limitations
The main disadvantages and limitations of using hummingbird ESCs include:
- May lack some of the smoothed throttle response of more expensive “drone” ESCs.
- Durability may be less than high-end ESCs designed for racing quads.
- Limited control options compared to programmable drone ESCs.
- May not handle very high power builds (>500W) without overheating.
- Requires careful setup for optimal throttle range and response.
- Small size leaves little room for heat sinking.
While they perform very well for average pilots, hummingbird ESCs may not satisfy pros who want the highest performance options. Careful component selection and setup is also important to get good results.
Popular manufacturers
Some of the major manufacturers of hummingbird ESCs for quadcopters include:
- DYS
- Racerstar
- Emax
- Diatone
- Rotorgeeks
- Hobbywing
- Aikon
- Pyrodrone
These companies offer ESCs in the typical sizes needed for mini and micro quads, with some differentiation in features and performance. DYS, Racerstar, and Emax tend to offer a good balance of price and quality for most builders.
Conclusion
A hummingbird ESC is designed to provide the fast, precise motor control that micro and mini quads require. Their small size, affordable price, and easy integration make them a popular choice to drive brushed and brushless motors. While not as sophisticated as high-end ESCs, they offer excellent performance for recreational and FPV drones. With proper component selection and setup, hummingbird ESCs provide a great motor control solution.
