Spintend Ubox Motor Controller User Manual

1. Introducció

This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, setup, and operation of your Spintend Ubox 85V 150A Single Motor Controller. This controller is designed for various electric mobility applications, including electric scooters, ebikes, and Onewheel systems. Please read this manual thoroughly before use to ensure proper functionality and safety.

2. Advertències de seguretat

• Open Source Firmware: The Ubox controller utilizes open-source firmware, which carries inherent risks. Only hardware components are covered under warranty.
• Actualitzacions de firmware: The product is shipped with the latest firmware (version 6.2). Using unauthorized or 'unlimited' firmware will void the product warranty. Always ensure your firmware bin file name is correct for your Ubox model and use the right VESC tool version for compatibility.
• Seguretat elèctrica: Incorrect wiring can damage the Electronic Speed Controller (ESC) and other components. Always follow the provided wiring diagrams carefully.
• Límits actuals: The 12V power ports have a total current limit of less than 3A. Exceeding this limit can cause damage.
• Protecció de fusibles: The controller includes a 120A fuse. Understand its specifications and limitations to prevent damage from overcurrent.

3. Producte acabatview

The Spintend Ubox Motor Controller is a high-performance ESC featuring an aluminum base for efficient heat dissipation. It comes with a range of ports and accessories to facilitate integration into your electric vehicle project.

Característiques principals:

• Aluminum Power Board: Designed for rapid heat transfer and improved cooling.
• Multiple Power-On Options: Three convenient ways to turn the controller on/off.
• Protecció de circuits: All 12V/3.3V/5V power circuits and the ignite port are protected by recovery fuses.
• Dual 12V Power Ports: Two dedicated 12V power supply ports for lights, fans, or other accessories.
• NRF Port: An extra NRF port for Bluetooth or 2.4Ghz receivers, freeing up the COM port for other applications.
• Integrated BMI160 Module: Built-in BMI160 module for balanced board DIY projects.
• Stacked PCBA Design: Enhances cooling and structural reliability.

4. Especificacions

Accessoris inclosos:

• Power button (x1)
• PPM cable (x1)
• CAN bus cable (x1)
• Hall sensor cable (x1)
• 4pin 12V power cable (x1)
• Fan port transfer cable (x1)
• 3pin ignite port cable (x1)
• Multifunction cable (UART & ADC) (x1)
• NRF port cable (x1)

5. Instal·lació i cablejat

The wiring diagrams below illustrate how to connect your Ubox controller for various setups. All Ubox models share common port names: Comm port, NRF port, Power button, CAN, Servo, and Ignite key port. Note that the Lite version Ubox does not have 12V fan and 12V ports.

5.1. Single Motor Model: No ADC Adapter V3

This diagram shows the basic wiring for a single motor setup without the E-wheel ADC Adapter V3. This setup is suitable if you do not require control over scooter lights, horn, or brake via the adapter.

5.2. Dual Motor Model: No ADC Adapter V3

For dual motor configurations without the ADC adapter, all wiring is primarily done on the main ESC. The second ESC only requires connections for the hall sensor cable and motor cables. Ensure both motor phase cables are randomly hooked with each ESC, as VESC will auto-pair during detection.

5.3. Single Motor Model: With E-wheel ADC Adapter V3

If you intend to control scooter lights, horn, and brake functions, the E-wheel ADC Adapter V3 is recommended, especially for new users. This diagram illustrates the connections for a single motor setup with the adapter.

5.4. Dual Motor Model: With E-wheel ADC Adapter V3

For dual motor setups utilizing the E-wheel ADC Adapter V3, refer to the following diagrams. The Lite controller does not have 12V output; if you need to control lights and horn via the adapter, ensure proper wiring to the 12V port. If you don't need these controls, no wiring to the 12V port is necessary.

5.5. Using a Voltage Regulator with Ubox Alum Lite

The 12V regulator power will turn on/off with the ignite key. Ensure the total output current is less than 3A.

5.6. Why an ADC Adapter is Needed

The ADC input of VESC-based ESCs operates in a float mode without filtering, making it susceptible to electronic interference. This can lead to unstable throttle response or unintended motor operation if the throttle cable is disconnected.

• Interferència: Floating ADC input can cause misjudgment of signal voltage, leading to unstable throttle or unintended motor control.
• Voltage Incoherència: Most ebike/scooter throttles output 0-4V, while VESC operates at 3.3V. The ADC adapter helps bridge this voltage difference, preventing ESC malfunction.
• Wiring Complexity: The adapter simplifies complex wiring, reducing the risk of incorrect connections and potential ESC damage.

The E-wheel ADC Adapter V3 offers comprehensive control for electric skateboard/scooter DIY projects, including horn, lights (head, turn signal, brake, reverse), multi-level throttle, motor reverse, cruise, and buzzer functions. It supports both hall and mechanical brake inputs and bidirectional throttle. Each output port provides up to 3A at 12V.

Notes on ADC Adapter V3:

• Only connect one UART cable to the Ubox for two motors to run in sync.
• Connect both UART cables if you want independent motor control, then disable Ubox internal CAN bus.
• Cruise and Reverse functions are activated by a switch.
• Brake levers with internal switches can trigger the brake light.

6. VESC Tool Setup

The Ubox controller is shipped with firmware 6.02. It is recommended to use VESC Tool 6.02. Do not blindly update firmware, as incorrect updates can damage your ESC.

You can download the VESC Tool from the official Spintend weblloc: Spintend VESC Tool & Ubox Firmware Collections.

For more information on VESC Tool, refer to the VESC Project weblloc: VESC Project Tool.

6.1. Firmware Update Considerations

• Ensure your firmware .bin file name is correct for your specific Ubox model.
• Use the correct VESC Tool version that is compatible with your firmware version.

6.2. Setting Up Ubox in VESC Tool

1. Verifiqueu el cablejat: Double-check all wiring connections according to the relevant diagrams in Section 5.
2. Encendre i connectar: Power on the ESC and connect it to your PC via USB. For dual motor setups, connect the USB to the main ESC.
3. Run Motor FOC Setup: Follow the wizard for "Setup Motors FOC" step-by-step. For most scooter hub motors, the magnet pairs are typically 15. Input your actual motor specifications during this process.
4. Input Setup & Calibration: After completing the motor setup, proceed to the input setup. If using the E-wheel ADC Adapter V3, calibrate your throttle with the adapter before input setup. Refer to these videos for guidance:
   • Input Setup Tutorial: https://youtu.be/AMWHuRQtMSE
   • Input Setup Video: https://youtu.be/yEMXvkfj8aU
5. Map Throttle: In the VESC Tool, navigate to the 'App Settings' -> 'ADC' section. Hold your throttle to its maximum position; the bar should turn full blue. Release the throttle, and it should return to almost zero. Click the right column 'A' to save your setup.
6. Map Brake: In the same 'ADC' section, hold the brake lever. Click 'Apply' to set the brake mapping.
7. Test Throttle and Brake: After mapping, test both the throttle and brake to ensure they respond correctly.
8. Dual ESC Setup (Last Step): For dual motor setups, after configuring the main ESC, select the second ESC (the local side connected via USB to the main ESC) in the VESC Tool. Ensure the 'APP to Use' is set to 'NO app' for the second ESC.

7. 120A Fuse Information

The Ubox controller includes a 120A fuse to protect the battery line.

7.1. Electrical Features:

• Especificació: 60A x 2 (can be extended to 180A), 100V
• Connector: Amass XT90PW female and male connectors

7.2. Fuse Blowing Time:

The fuse is placed on the positive power line. For a 120A fuse:

• Blow current is 240A in one minute.
• Continuous time under 120A is more than 4 hours.

7.3. Is 120A Enough?

• Most electric skateboards do not continuously operate at 120A battery current. They typically draw low current with short bursts. The PCB allows for adding another fuse to extend the current to 180A.
• This fuse current specification is for battery current, not motor phase current. Battery current is generally much smaller than motor current, especially at low motor speeds. If your motor runs at high speed under high load, battery current may approach motor current. In such cases, you may consider extending the fuse current up to 180A.

7.4. How to Use the Fuse:

Connect the fuse between your VESC and the battery pack.

8. Instruccions de funcionament

Once the Ubox controller is correctly wired and configured using the VESC Tool, you can begin operating your electric vehicle. The power button LED provides functional indications:

• Llum verda: Córrer
• Dim green: Stop/beginning throttling
• Vermell intermitent: Estat anormal

Always ensure the power button LED indicates normal operation before riding.

9. Manteniment

Regular maintenance helps ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your Ubox controller:

• Mantenir net: Periodically clean the controller and its connections to prevent dust and debris buildup.
• Inspeccioneu el cablejat: Regularly check all wiring for signs of wear, fraying, or loose connections.
• Monitorització de la temperatura: While the aluminum base aids in heat dissipation, avoid operating the controller in excessively hot environments or under conditions that lead to overheating.
• Gestió de firmware: Only update firmware when necessary and always follow official guidelines to avoid issues.

10. Solució De Problemes

If you encounter issues with your Ubox controller, refer to the following common troubleshooting steps:

• Throttle or Brake Not Working: If the throttle or brake does not respond normally after setup, revisit Section 5 (Installation and Wiring) and Section 6 (VESC Tool Setup) to re-check your wiring and settings in detail.
• Abnormal LED Indication: A blinking red light on the power button indicates an abnormal condition. Check all connections and review VESC Tool logs for error codes.
• Control intermitent: If control is intermittent or unstable, especially without an ADC adapter, consider installing the E-wheel ADC Adapter V3 to mitigate electronic interference.

11. Consells d'usuari

• The Ubox Motor Controller is versatile and can be effectively used for building or upgrading electric bikes and electric scooters.
• For optimal performance and safety, especially when integrating complex controls like lights and horns, the E-wheel ADC Adapter V3 is highly recommended.
• Always ensure your battery pack is compatible with the controller's voltage i qualificacions actuals.

12. Garantia i Suport

All products sold by Spintend are inspected and tested to be free of material defects and manufacturing faults.

12.1. Període de garantia:

• Non-electronic components: 365 days (1 year) from the package received date.
• Consumable Electronic components: 60 days from the package received date.
• Motors: 60 days from the package received date. Warranty does not cover overheated, improperly used, or abused motors, nor wear and tear on parts designed to wear with use.

If a component is defective, Spintend will, at its discretion, repair, replace, or provide a discount for replacement. The customer is responsible for shipping fees for returning damaged products; return shipping is typically paid by Spintend.

12.2. Conditions Not Covered by Warranty:

• Impossibilitat de presentar el comprovant de compra.
• Mechanical damage to electronic components or PCB.
• PCBA board showing repair soldering iron traces (excluding bullet connector soldering).
• Wire damage or external impact damage.
• Water ingress (for non-waterproof products).
• Abnormal applications beyond product specifications.
• Ús o instal·lació inadequada.

Warranties are non-transferable. Spintend's liability will not exceed the actual purchase price of the product. Spintend values its customers and may offer discounts for user mistakes or incorrect installations.

13. Recursos addicionals

For more advanced control types and detailed information, please refer to the following resources:

• VESC ADC Modes and Wiring: GitHub Wiki
• Ubox Source Code: Google Drive Folder