Bullet connectors, also known as bullet plugs, are a type of electrical connector commonly used in radio-controlled (RC) vehicles such as drones, cars, and boats. These connectors are used to connect the electronic speed controller (ESC) to the motor, and the size of the connector can have a significant impact on the performance and safety of your RC vehicle. In this blog post, we will discuss the different sizes of bullet connectors and the factors to consider when choosing the right size for your ESC.
When it comes to bullet connectors, the size refers to the diameter of the connector. The most common sizes for bullet connectors are 2.5mm, 3.5mm, 4.0mm, and 5.5mm. Each size has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, and the right size for you will depend on the specific needs of your RC vehicle.
2.5mm bullet connectors are the smallest size and are commonly used in small RC vehicles such as micro drones and indoor flying planes. They are lightweight, easy to handle, and provide a secure connection. However, they are not recommended for high-powered vehicles or large drones as they have a lower current rating and can overheat.
3.5mm bullet connectors are slightly larger than 2.5mm connectors and are commonly used in medium-sized RC vehicles such as park flyers and sport planes. They offer a higher current rating than 2.5mm connectors and are less likely to overheat, making them a good choice for high-powered vehicles. However, they are still not recommended for large drones or heavy-duty vehicles as they have a lower current rating than larger connectors.
4.0mm bullet connectors are the most popular size for high-powered RC vehicles such as large drones and heavy-duty vehicles. They offer a higher current rating than smaller connectors, making them less likely to overheat and providing a more stable and reliable connection. However, they are larger and heavier than smaller connectors, which can make them more difficult to handle.
5.5mm bullet connectors are the largest size and are commonly used in large RC vehicles such as large drones and heavy-duty vehicles. They offer the highest current rating of all bullet connector sizes, making them the most suitable for high-powered vehicles. However, they are also the heaviest and most difficult to handle, which can make them less suitable for small or lightweight vehicles.
When choosing the right size of bullet connector for your ESC, it is important to consider the current rating of your ESC, the weight and size of your RC vehicle, and the specific needs of your application. For example, if you are building a small drone that will be flown indoors, a 2.5mm connector would be a suitable choice. However, if you are building a large drone that will be flown outdoors, a 4.0mm or 5.5mm connector would be a better choice.
It’s also important to ensure that the connectors you use are compatible with the ESC you are using. Many ESCs come with specific connectors preinstalled, and it’s important to use connectors that are compatible with those. If you are using a third-party ESC, you should check the documentation for the connector type and size that is recommended.
Another important factor to consider is the quality of the connectors. Not all connectors are created equal, and it’s important to use connectors that are made from high-quality materials and are rated for the current and voltage that your application requires. High-quality connectors are less likely to fail, which can help to ensure the safety of your RC vehicle and the people around it.
In conclusion, the size of the bullet connector you use for your ESC can have a significant impact on the performance and safety