Capacitors for cap packs..

[jingalls007]

Is it better to have more caps with less uF or fewer caps with higher uF?
This is a scenario I?m contemplating:
1). 6, 35v 2000uF capacitors.
2). 2, 35v 6000uF capacitors.

The capacity is the same in the above 2 examples. Is there an advantage or disadvantage to either configuration?

Thanks doodes!

[TRUCKPULL]

The higher the uf value of the cap's, the longer it will take to charge.
EX. - If you are going to run a high RPM, you may want a lower uf. so the cap can recharge faster, with the high PWM Frequency.
I would suggest for extra Cap's never go larger then the cap's that are already on the ESC, If anything -go smaller and more of them.

Larry

[jingalls007]

The higher the uf value of the cap's, the longer it will take to charge.
EX. - If you are going to run a high RPM, you may want a lower uf. so the cap can recharge faster, with the high PWM Frequency.
I would suggest for extra Cap's never go larger then the cap's that are already on the ESC, If anything -go smaller and more of them.

Larry

Thanks Larry!

Out of curiosity, do extra caps increase the amperage capability of the esc? I know they smooth out ripple current, and allow for longer battery/controller leads. What other benefits do they bring in our setups?
Thanks Larry!

[plinse]

The burst current capability is propably increased. You damp the ripple from switching and this ripple would kill the ESC if it is too high.
You won't be able to increase the thermal capability of the FETs so continuous current is not increased.

The Burst issue is a topic for SAW actually. If you really want to push the limits you will have to be pretty disciplined or you will burn the ESC.

[RaceMechaniX]

It is better to run a higher number of smaller caps versus a lower quantity with increased capacitance. The smaller caps have more surface area per capacitance making them more effective.
In the end it comes down to what you can package easily and what's available.

[jingalls007]

Hey thanks Tyler!