It would be nice to have an arming switch (With spark prevention) external to the model for high power electric model; to isolate the flight packs from the ESC and hence the motor.

I have heard that this will eventually become FAI mandatory. Not certain what power levels it would apply to.


F3A Typical 10S (36V) 100A Continuous Rated ESC
50CC IMAC Typical 12S (43.2V) 100A Continuous Rated ESC

Electric F3A models are becoming more and more popular

Emcotec do a couple of versions  with a magnetic flag actuator.
MPI do a hardware solution based on Anderson Power Pole switches although only low current connectors are used

Most people either direct connect and put up with the spark due to the inital short circuit seen at the ESC input capacitors.
Some add a resistor in series initially to charge ESC capacitors and this is then shunted with a full current shunt when power connected.
Some leave the resistor in parallel with the shunt however if the shunt is accidently removed the resistor is exposed to full current. This could possibly be entertaining.

My last model had a block of wood with two 6mm female bullets inserted. These were exposed externally and a small Male-Male shunt used to make the connection. I also used a momentary Push Button to initially connect with a series resistor for anti-spark.

I see a need for both an electronic version and a hardware solution.
I have seen the Emcotec in use at F3A comps and quite a few homegrown shunt arrangements.

My personal preference would be a neat and tidy external panel that allows for a small  high current shunt to be easily inserted and removed with some sort of anti spark  mechanism .

(Some of the newer high current ESC's incorporate anti - spark)



I would love a reasonably priced Australian Made commercial solution.


Peter Stapleton
P&DARCS (Victoria)
F3A and IMAC
Electronic/Electrical Engineer