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  #1  
Old 09-27-2015, 02:20 PM
UlteriorModem UlteriorModem is offline
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Default Estes Pro series II launch controller question....

I have been looking at the Estes Pro series II launch controller as an upgrade.

By default it uses 4 C cell batteries but they also mention it accepts alternate power sources.

However it does not go into any detail about what power sources and how. I did see one mention of someone using a LiPo and that makes me curious as I have lots of those and know they can deliver tremendous amounts of current very quickly from a small package and would seemingly be ideal.

Anyhow I searched the web and came up empty.

Anyone know or have some linkage??

Thanks!
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Old 09-27-2015, 02:43 PM
Rex R Rex R is offline
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the only launch controller I found by that name uses 6(six) C cells (alkaline). it has a 'JST' socket in the battery compartment for external power(off hand I would suggest a 3s lipo pack if you want to go with that option). the 30' launch wire is IMO a tad short, 40 - 50' would be better. from what I could find via a google search(which led to the rocketry forum) it would appear to be a serviceable unit.
Rex
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Old 09-27-2015, 02:52 PM
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BEC BEC is offline
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I have two of them. I like 'em.

One of them has an Electrifly 3s LiPoly inside. It works very nicely and has even managed to fire the infamous Copperhead ignters a couple times. As Rex noted there is a two-pin JST socket inside for the alternate power source. Space inside is kind of tight because this alternate power source has to fit between the springs for the C-cells.

Heck - I should just go grab it, take a couple of pics with my iPhone and post 'em here.

Back in a little while......
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Old 09-27-2015, 03:24 PM
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OK - here we go.

This particular unit was inadvertently left behind at a launch in eastern Washington and collected several days later after it had been rained on a bit - no issues.

An odd feature is that there are two clips on each of the two leads - essentially a built-in clip whip. The trick is to get one clip from each on the igniter

Pictures - exterior with a ruler and an Electron Beam for scale. Then back cover, open with the 3s 1200 mAh LiPoly in it, some details of how that's connected, and a view with the C-cells.
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Old 09-27-2015, 03:25 PM
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Only five per post, so here's the C-cell view - note it takes six, not four.

This controller is like a couple of its predecessors in that it takes two hands to fire it. The yellow button on the left is essentially a second arming (after the key is in) and a beeper sounds. You have to hold that one down and press the red one to fire the igniter(s).
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Old 09-27-2015, 04:03 PM
UlteriorModem UlteriorModem is offline
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Wow perfect!

I cant thank you enough. Answered every question I had.

Thanks!
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