How to Use the Regent Electronics SmartElex Motor Driver in RC Mode
Looking to control your motors using an RC transmitter? The Regent Electronics SmartElex Motor Driver makes it simple and efficient. In this guide, we’ll walk you through using the SmartElex 15D Motor Driver in RC (Radio Control) Mode, including how to wire, configure, and operate it using a basic RC transmitter setup.
Introduction to Motor Drivers
Motor drivers act as a bridge between control systems (like microcontrollers or RC receivers) and electric motors. They enable control of speed, direction, and torque. The SmartElex series by Regent Electronics offers advanced features like thermal protection, multiple input modes, and wide voltage compatibility—making them ideal for robotics and automation projects.
SmartElex Motor Driver Input Modes
The SmartElex series supports four different control input modes:
- PWM Mode (Pulse Width Modulation)
- RC Mode (Radio Control)
- Analog Mode
- Serial Mode
Each mode is tailored for specific applications. In this tutorial, we’ll focus on RC Mode, where motor control is achieved through a radio transmitter and receiver system.
SmartElex Motor Driver Comparison Chart
| Sr.No. | Model | Input Voltage | RC Mode | Analog Mode | PWM Mode | Max. Continuous Current | Channels |
| 1 | 30D Dual Channel 30A | 7–30V | Yes | Yes | Yes | 30A | 2 |
| 2 | 15D Smart Motor Driver | 7–30V | Yes | Yes | Yes | 15A | 2 |
| 3 | 15D Dual Channel DC | 6.5–30V | No | No | Yes | 13A | 2 |
| 4 | 15S DC Motor Driver | 6–30V | No | No | Yes | 15A | 1 |
| 5 | 10D for Arduino | 7–30V | No | No | Yes | 10A | 2 |
| 6 | 10S for Arduino | 7–30V | No | No | Yes | 10A | 1 |
| 7 | 10D DC HAT for Raspberry Pi | 6.5–28V | No | No | Yes | 10A | 2 |
| 8 | L298 Driver with Arduino | 9–15V | No | No | Yes | 2A | 1 |
| 9 | L298 with Micro-USB | 9–15V | No | No | Yes | 2A | 1 |
What is RC Mode?
RC Mode allows you to control motor speed and direction using a standard RC transmitter and receiver. The SmartElex Motor Driver reads servo-style PWM signals from the RC receiver and translates them into motor actions.
This mode is perfect for RC cars, boats, and robotic platforms.
Key Features of SmartElex 15D Motor Driver
- Dual channel motor driver (2 motors)
- 15A continuous and up to 30A peak current per channel
- Operating voltage: 7V to 28V
- Input modes: RC, Analog, PWM, Serial
- Quiet 16kHz PWM switching frequency
- Overcurrent and thermal protection
- Onboard push buttons for manual control
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Range |
| Input Voltage | 7–28V |
| Continuous Current | 15A |
| Peak Current (10s) | 30A |
| Logic High | 3–5.5V |
| Logic Low | ≤0.5V |
| PWM Frequency | 16kHz |
DIP Switch Settings for Input Modes
| Mode | DIP 1 | DIP 2 | DIP 3 | DIP 4 |
| RC (Independent/Mixed, Linear/Exponential) | 0/1 | 0/1 | 0 | 0 |
| Analog | 0/1 | 0/1 | 0 | 1 |
| PWM | 0/1 | 0/1 | 1 | 0 |
| Serial (Baud Rate Select) | — | — | 1 | 1 |
Required Components
- SmartElex 15D Motor Driver – 1 unit
- DC Motors (30RPM, 12V) – 2 units
- Connecting Wires
- 12V Battery or Power Supply
- FlySky FS-i6X 2.4GHz Transmitter
- FS-iA10B 2.4GHz 10CH Receiver
Wiring the SmartElex 15D in RC Mode
- Power Input: Connect a 7–28V battery to VIN and GND.
- Motor Terminals: Connect Motor 1 and Motor 2 to their respective terminals.
- RC Input: Connect the receiver’s CH1 and CH2 to RC1 and RC2 on the driver.
- DIP Switch: Set DIP switches to RC mode (see table above).
⚠️ Use appropriate wire gauges to handle high current loads—10 to 12 AWG is recommended.
Binding the Transmitter to Receiver
To bind the FlySky FS-i6X to the FS-iA10B:
- Power on the receiver while holding the bind button.
- If the LED blinks, the receiver is in bind mode.
- Power on the transmitter; it should automatically bind.
- When the LED turns solid, binding is complete.
Operating the Motors in RC Mode
After successful binding:
- Move the throttle stick on your transmitter.
- Observe the motor response—forward, reverse, and stop.
- Ensure correct orientation and test with load.
You are now ready to use your motor system with RC control!
Final Thoughts
The SmartElex 15D Motor Driver from Regent Electronics is a powerful tool for any RC or robotics enthusiast. Its multiple modes, robust protection features, and high current capacity make it a versatile choice for both beginners and professionals.
Need help choosing the right motor driver? Contact our team at Regent Electronics—we’re happy to assist!