Q: How to program ESC (Electronic Speed Controller) for brushless motors?
Answer
ESC programming via UART/Servo PWM interface: (1) Configure motor timing (8/16/24 degrees advance) – higher timing for outrunner motors. (2) Set governor mode (open-loop speed or closed-loop RPM). (3) Configure acceleration/deceleration rates (ramp). (4) Set cutoff voltage (LiPo 3.0-3.3 V/cell). (5) Configure motor direction (normal/reverse). (6) Set startup strength (soft/normal/hard). Use DSHOT protocol (digital 4x faster than PWM) for multi-rotor ESCs. For custom ESC using STM32: implement the ESC API (BLDC 6-step commutation or FOC) using sensor feedback (Hall or BEMF). Run the commutation timer at PWM frequency (8-32 kHz) with complementary outputs and dead-time. Calibrate the throttle range on first use. Use current limiting to protect motor and battery.
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