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Motor Overview

Overview​

Motors are devices that convert electrical energy into mechanical motion. In FRC robotics, motors are the powerhouse that make everything move - from driving the robot around the field to operating mechanisms like arms, shooters, and intakes.

Types of Electric Motors​

Brushed Motors (The Older Type)​

Think of it like:

  • Something inside physically "switches" the electricity as it spins. Like little contacts rubbing.

Good parts:

  • Usually cheaper to make and buy. Simple.

Not-so-good parts:

  • Those rubbing contacts wear out over time, like pencil erasers. This means they don't last as long, create some friction (which wastes a little power and makes heat), and can be a bit noisy or sparky.

FRC legal motors:

  • CIM, Mini CIM, Bag, 775 pro, Venom

Brushless Motors (The Newer Type)​

Think of it like:

  • The switching of electricity is done electronically, with smart parts, instead of physically rubbing.

Good parts:

  • Last much, much longer because there's no rubbing to wear things out. More efficient (use less power to do the same work). Often more powerful and smoother.

Not-so-good parts:

  • Cost a bit more upfront because they need those smart electronic parts.

FRC legal motors:

  • Falcon, Kraken 60x, Kraken 44x, Neo

Motor Controller​

Think of a motor controller as the brain for an electric motor. Instead of just turning a motor on or off at full power like a simple switch, a motor controller lets you control it.

Types of Motor Controllers​

There are typically two main ways motor controllers work:

Integrated Controllers:

  • The controller is built right into the motor
  • Examples: Falcon 500, Kraken motors

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Non-Integrated (External) Controllers:

  • The controller is a separate unit connected by wires
  • Examples: Talon SRX, Spark MAX, Victor SPX alt text