What amplifier tube is used in model aircraft?
Model aircraft ESC (electronic speed regulator) is one of the core components of remote control model aircraft, drones and other equipment. It is responsible for controlling the speed and direction of the motor. As a key component in the ESC, the power amplifier tube (power amplifier tube) directly affects the efficiency and performance of the ESC. This article will combine the hot topics and hot content on the Internet in the past 10 days, analyze the types of power amplifier tubes commonly used in model aircraft ESCs and their characteristics, and provide structured data for reference.
1. Common types of electronically controlled power amplifier tubes for model aircraft

There are two main types of power amplifier tubes commonly used in model aircraft ESCs: MOSFET (Metal Oxide Semiconductor Field Effect Transistor) and IGBT (Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistor). Here's how they compare:
| Type | Features | Applicable scenarios |
|---|---|---|
| MOSFET | Fast switching speed, high efficiency and low cost | Small and medium power model aircraft ESCs (such as drones, fixed-wing aircraft) |
| IGBT | High voltage resistance, high current, good heat dissipation performance | High-power aircraft model ESC (such as large aircraft model, industrial drone) |
2. Analysis of popular model aircraft ESC power amplifier tube models
According to recent hot topics of discussion, the following are the commonly used power amplifier tube models and parameters in model aircraft ESCs:
| Model | Type | Maximum current (A) | Withstand voltage (V) | encapsulation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| IRLZ44N | MOSFET | 47 | 55 | TO-220 |
| IRF3205 | MOSFET | 110 | 55 | TO-220 |
| STP80NF70 | MOSFET | 80 | 70 | TO-220 |
| FGH40N60SFD | IGBT | 40 | 600 | TO-247 |
3. How to choose the appropriate power amplifier tube
When choosing an aircraft model ESC power amplifier tube, you need to consider the following factors:
1.Power requirements: Select the power amplifier tube of appropriate specifications according to the power and current requirements of the motor. For example, small drones often use MOSFETs, while large model aircraft may require IGBTs.
2.Thermal performance: The packaging form of the power amplifier tube (such as TO-220, TO-247) directly affects the heat dissipation effect and needs to be selected according to the design of the ESC.
3.cost: MOSFET is generally more economical than IGBT and suitable for users with limited budget.
4.switching frequency: High-frequency applications (such as brushless motors) require MOSFETs with fast switching speeds.
4. Recent hot topics: replacement and upgrade of power amplifier tubes
In the past 10 days, model aircraft enthusiasts have been discussing a lot about the replacement and upgrade of power amplifier tubes. The following are some popular opinions:
1.Domestic replacement: Some users have begun to try domestic MOSFETs (such as Hua Microelectronics models), which are cost-effective but need to be verified for reliability.
2.SiC (silicon carbide) devices: The new silicon carbide MOSFET has become a hot topic due to its high efficiency and high temperature resistance, but its cost is high.
3.Thermal optimization: Many users share their experience in improving the performance of power amplifier tubes by improving heat dissipation design (such as adding heat sinks or fans).
5. Summary
The choice of power amplifier tube for model aircraft ESC directly affects the performance and reliability of the equipment. MOSFET has become the mainstream choice due to its high efficiency and low cost, while IGBT is suitable for high-power scenarios. Recently, domestic substitution and new SiC devices have become a hot topic. Users should choose appropriate power amplifier tubes based on actual needs and pay attention to heat dissipation design to extend service life.
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