VESC Tool for Mac: Understanding ERPM and Reverse Function

When using the VESC tool on your mac, you may have noticed that the motors struggle to stop moving at very low speeds. This is because the board doesn't quite understand what 'zero' speed means, leading to some frustration when trying to reverse or brake. But fear not, dear ESC enthusiasts! Today, we'll explore how to find the perfect ERPM for your VESC tool and learn about the intricacies of reverse function.

The Challenge: Finding the Perfect ERPM

The ERPM (Electric RPM) is a crucial parameter that determines how well your board responds to throttle and brake inputs. When driving backwards, you need to release the throttle and brake again to engage the normal brake. However, if you're above 4000 ERPM in the reverse direction, the board will accelerate instead of braking. This can be problematic when trying to slow down or stop.

The Solution: Enabling Maximum ERPM for Direction Switch

To overcome this limitation, you can enable the 'Maximum ERPM for direction switch' parameter in your VESC tool settings. This allows your board to brake normally again once you drop below 4000 ERPM. But be warned: if you brake too hard while moving forward, the wheels may start spinning backward.

Watt Control Mode: A New Era of Motor Control

The VESC tool also offers a new control mode called Watt Control. This mode allows you to specify a maximum power output, which can help prevent motor overheating and improve overall controllability. The wattage is calculated based on the battery voltage and maximum current draw.

For example, if you're using a 10S4P battery with a maximum current of 25A, your maximum reachable watts would be 900 Watts (3.6V x 10S x 25A). You can set limits on the maximum watts in the motor settings, making it easy to program a beginner mode with a lower power output.

The VESC tool for mac offers a range of features and settings that can help you get the most out of your electric motor. By understanding how ERPM affects reverse function and using Watt Control Mode, you can improve the overall performance and controllability of your board. With the right settings, you'll be carving up the trails in no time!

Vesc tool mac