I'll have to agree with Peter on this subject. I have access to lots of prototype sample parts including high dollar MOSFET's and electrolytics. I sometimes prefer to just buy or recycle an existing controller to save time. If you plan on designing your own control it may become a 'control project' instead of an EV project. Often a simple task that appears to look straight forward even for an experienced designer becomes bogged down with multiple unforeseen problems. I'm not trying to discourage you from designing your own control, I just think it may be better to get the EV running first, then going back to design your own components. Once you are bitten by the EV bug (that is driving your first conversion), you'll probably be more encouraged to put the time in your control.
Rod W8RNH hower.iwarp.com/photo.html 1994 Dodge TEVan 1995 Club Car 1970 GE Elec Trak 2002 Currie Scooter Just some thoughs, but I don't think that a DIY controller is going to be the cheapoest route. Have you ever built a high power motor controller before? If not then it will probably be much cheaper to buy a rebuilt or used controller than it will be to build your own. In fact it might even be cheaper to buy a new controller than to try building your own. Even the guys that build controllers for a living go through a LOT of silicon when working on a new design. I think the rule of thumb is that each new controller design requires approx a 5 lb coffee can worth of smoked MOSFETs, try pricing that many FETs. Also getting low ESR capacitors in small quantities tends to be very expensive, heck they ain't cheap in large quantities. > >Many of the components I will use I plan on designing myself. The dash >display I will either design myself or partially myself. The Motor >controller/Inverter I will try to design and build myself. I have pretty >good connections to the battery business, so I can get decent prices on >batteries, cable, SB-connectors etc. so that part is not a concern. My main >concern is getting the engineering down and getting good info so I can make >educated decisions on paths to take when I return home. > > >Thanks to all, >Eric Patchem. > > >
