Features
External one-button setup and programming
4 profiles +1 PC profile
Adjustable current limiter, drag brake/auto-roll, max. brake,
and brake frequency
Fully replaceable wires (inc. radio leads)
Auto-off with transmitter
14-minute data logger
Upon removing the iCUBE from the packaging, you'll notice its
small size (27x25x13.5mm), comparable to others in its class.
The wired external on/off switch also houses the socket for
their optional PC interface, which is required if you want to
tap into the unique data logging feature. All wires are
replaceable, including the radio wires, so you can shorten or
lengthen it if needed for your own custom application.
Testing
I ran the iCUBE in my XRay T2 007, simulating laps around our
parking lot behind the XRC offices. I made sure to run the same
line in order to check out the PC-Interface later. As for the
iCUBE's performance, it pretty much did as advertised. Response
was good, and brake feel was consistent. Changing settings was
easy, due to the external switch, which required no extra
tools--just your finger. After a run, the heatsink was warm, but
not burning hot. Having the ability to turn the car off with
just the radio was a novelty (just hold full brake for about
seven seconds, and the ESC will shut down automatically).
Back in the office I borrowed Oliver's PC laptop, loaded up the
PC-Interface software and had it up and running within seconds.
I plugged one end of the interface cable into the port on the
iCUBE's external switch, and the other end into a free USB port
on the laptop. Firing up "Trace" (the name for the
data logging software), I imported about 15 laps of data in
about 12 seconds, and the next thing I knew, I was staring at a
graphical representation of the entire run. I could easily see
throttle position, motor current, battery voltage, and other
statistics. Also, Trace automatically analyzed my data to plot
out each individual lap. Although not as accurate as an actual
lap counting system, it was useful information nevertheless.
There isn't any stand-alone ESC currently in the market that can
do what the iCUBE can do. With this info (and some calculating,
which I had to learn on my own since the Trace program didn't
come with any instructions), anyone using the iCUBE's data
logging feature can get a better gauge of overall improvement,
driving consistency, and performance of motor and batteries.
Conclusion
When looking at the ESC side of things, the iCUBE doesn't
disappoint. It's a solid, high-performance speed controller that
not only stays toe-to-toe with its competition, but also takes a
step beyond, due to its data logging features. It's too bad that
the PC-Interface is a little pricey for what amounts to a 5' USB
cable and an interface adapter (the software is basically free,
since you can download it from the Robitronic website). The data
logging is a definite plus on the scale, and although there was
no guide to utilize all of the data to its full potential, any
RC racer can still get some good use out of the program. All in
all, Robitronic's iCUBE ESC is one for all racers to consider.
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HITS
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Performs like a pro ESC
should
Very compact package
Automatic data loggin is useful
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MISSES
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No reverse-polarity
protection
$75 for a cable?
No guide to using Trace software
MANUFACTURER: Robitronic
PART NUMBER(S): RS1146T
STREET PRICE: $250
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