An EDF Brushless ESC regulates the power from the batteries to the motor. It must be properly selected in order to be able to handle the current draw demanded from the motor. It is recommended to choose a high quality ESC. The most common ESC is the ICE, ICE HV and ICE LITE series by Castle Creations. For the most part these high voltage and low voltage ESC’s will handle the majority of setups. Be sure the motor selected will not exceed the maximum continuous current rating of the ESC. If it does a higher rated ESC is needed. If you are using an ESC that has a linear BEC and you are planning to use more than 4s LiPo, it may be necessary to disconnect the BEC on the ESC and use a 4 or 5 cell NiMh receiver pack or 2 cell LiPo with voltage regulator.
This will be specified in the ESC manual whether this is required or not. To disconnect BEC remove the center wire on the ESC to RX lead. It can be pushed out with a pin and replaced later if needed.
Follow motor manufactures recommendations for motor timing. If unknown, keep low. For example Neu 1D motors must always be set for low timing.
Voltage cut off is standard at 3.0v per cell. However, if the power setup you are using does not draw a lot of power it’s recommend raising this value higher in order to stop a run a bit earlier leaving some capacity in the pack. In most cases many raise this cutoff to at least 3.2v per cell.