Getting Started
Getting started with the microDRIVE LP units. The following checklist is a helpful starting point for new systems.
1. Wiring
Wiring-specific checks to perform when starting with a new system.
Ensure Bus Motor and Motor Phases are connected. It is recommended to keep the input lead length to a maximum of 3 metres [9 ft].
Ensure CAN Bus, DShot or PWM control signals are connected.
If using a tethered system or power supply for input power, confirm the AFW setting is disabled. This turns off the regenerative braking response and removes the risk of overvoltage events.
īģŋCheck that the VCC is supplied externally when using serial signalling protocols (DShot or PWM). īģŋ
2. Communications
The communication checks that should be performed on a new system.
The microDRIVE LP can be controlled over CANBus or DShot/PWM by default. Ensure atleast one valid control signal is being provided.
Set the motor pole pairs setting according to the motor connected, such that mechanical RPM is reported (rather than electrical RPM).
Enable the CAN Terminator setting on the unit furthest away from the flight controller on the CAN bus.
3. Mounting
Mounting checks that should be performed with a new system.
Ensure the motor controller is mounted securely to the vehicle.
Ensure cables are externally strain-relieved for long term reliability.
4. Protection Systems
The primary protection systems that are available on the microDRIVE LP, along with default behaviour. Activation of protection may cause unexpected system responses, which can affect a vehicle in flight. Check that the below behaviours are expected, and modify them as required for the application.
Over-temperature is activated when the temperature within the drive exceeds the set limit. The default behaviour is to ramp the output duty to 50%. The normal drive will resume once the temperature is reduced below the limit.
Signal timeout is activated when no valid signal is received within 500 ms. The drive will shut down. The drive will be resumed once a valid signal is returned and the throttle is 0%.
Require zero throttle can be overridden if the signal is lost and returned. Toggle this option to automatically disable the zero throttle setpoint requirement upon signal loss and re-establishment. When enabled, the ESC requires a 0% throttle signal to re-arm after signal loss.
Overvoltage is triggered when the overvoltage threshold is passed on the bus/input voltage. The normal drive will resume once the voltage settles below the limit. The default response will slowly limit the output power until the event clears.
Undervoltage is triggered when the undervoltage threshold is passed on the bus voltage. The normal drive will resume once the voltage settles above the limit. The default response is to perform no actions.