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controlling an electric motor
Posted: Mon Aug 13, 2007 10:38 pm
by jon_89
does any body know what i would use to control a 12v dc motor?
Posted: Mon Aug 13, 2007 10:40 pm
by homedepotpro
what do you need it for, like what is it going to power.
Posted: Mon Aug 13, 2007 10:42 pm
by hi
a speed controller, a reciever and a transmitter. you can get it all at your local hobby shop, but it wont be cheap. maybe $250. chech ebay. if you need more detailed help let me know.
Posted: Mon Aug 13, 2007 10:49 pm
by jackssmirkingrevenge
Posted: Mon Aug 13, 2007 10:52 pm
by jon_89
i am looking for something cheap. can i use a potetiometer?
Posted: Mon Aug 13, 2007 11:08 pm
by pyrogeek
Pots vary in how much variance they have. There are definitely ones that work though, since there are fan controllers on computers.
Posted: Tue Aug 14, 2007 12:03 am
by jon_89
ok so i am going to use a starter motor or a fan motor from a car on a minibike frame. i wonder if a could rig up one of the electric trolling motors used for troll fishing?
Posted: Tue Aug 14, 2007 3:06 am
by Gepard
You can't use a pot to control a motor that size you'll end up melting it.
Go with a normal R/C type car setup.
Michael
Posted: Tue Aug 14, 2007 3:52 am
by shud_b_rite
What range of speed do you want. If you want a full range of speeds then you will need a speed controller, but that is going to be difficult to make or buy for a starter motor as it draws a lot of current.
If you want only 2 or 3 speeds then you could make your own resistors and wire them to SPDT switch. Note that this is probably not the best option, it it not efficient at all and produces a lot of heat which will probably melt your resistors.
Posted: Tue Aug 14, 2007 10:42 am
by jon_89
any idea how long a deep cycle marine battery would last? i geuss for speeds i will have a low and a high .
Posted: Tue Aug 14, 2007 11:54 am
by jimmy101
Making a regulator that'll control a starter motor powered by a 12V automotive type battery is going to be really expensive. IIRC, a starter draws a couple hundred amps, not something your run of the mill electronics can handle.
Your best bet is to just use a low voltage switch to control a starter relay which in turn controls the power to the motor. You might be able to scrounge a starter relay for cheap from a junk yard. Or
here is one for $6.50 rated at 225 amps.
Only two speeds; "full power" and "off".
Posted: Tue Aug 14, 2007 7:48 pm
by clide
I don't think starter motors have a very high duty cycle, so be careful or you might burn it up pretty quick.