WATER & ELECTRONICS DON'T MIX! Do not
operate model in or around water. Never allow
water, moisture, or other foreign materials to get
inside the ESC (Electronic Speed Control).
4-10 CELLS (CYCLONE); 4-6 CELLS (ATOM) ONLY
Never use more than 10 sub-C cells (1.2 volts DC/cell)
in the Cyclone or 6 sub-C cells in the Atom’s main
battery pack.
MOTOR CAPACITORS REQUIRED Three 0.1µF (50V)
ceramic capacitors must be properly installed on every
motor to prevent radio interference.
POWER CAPACITOR REQUIRED It is necessary to use
the supplied power capacitor on the ESC in order to
dissipate noise and smooth out voltage spikes. It is also
necessary to use the Schottky diode with the Atom.
NO REVERSE VOLTAGE! Reverse battery polarity can
damage the ESC. Disconnect battery immediately.
DON'T LET TRANSISTOR TABS TOUCH Never
allow the two transistor tab banks or the heat sinks to
touch each other, solder posts or any exposed metal,
as this will create a short circuit and damage the ESC.
DISCONNECT THE BATTERIES Always disconnect the
battery pack from the ESC when not in use.
TRANSMITTER ON FIRST Always turn on the
transmitter first. This will give you control of the
radio equipment when you turn on the ESC.
DON'T GET BURNED! Transistor tabs can get hot. Do
not touch them until they have cooled.
PRECAUTIONS
INSULATE WIRES Always insulate exposed wiring
with heat shrink tubing to prevent short circuits.
PLEASE FOLLOW ALL INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY!
CYCLONE & ATOM INSTRUCTION MANUAL 1
CYCLONE & ATOM
OWNER’S MANUAL
OWNER’S MANUAL
The Novak Cyclone (#1765) and Atom (#1770)
Programmable ESCs, are all-digital, microprocessor-based
electronic speed controls which use advanced micro
components to deliver the best possible performance with the
smallest size and lightest weight.
The following instructions will help provide you with troublefree speed control operation. These steps will allow your speed
control to achieve maximum performance and minimize the
chance of problems due to incorrect installation.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Precautions ........................................................................ 1
Table Of Contents .............................................................. 2
Features Listing .................................................................. 3
STEP 1: Changing The Input Harness ................................. 4
STEP 2: Mounting Instructions ........................................... 7
STEP 3: Hook-Up Instructions............................................. 8
STEP 4: Transmitter Adjustments...................................... 14
STEP 5: Speed Control Set-Up.......................................... 17
STEP 6: Throttle Profile Selection ..................................... 19
Minimum Brake Adjustment ............................................. 21
FET Servo Connection ...................................................... 22
Using a Receiver Battery Pack ........................................... 23
Installing Brake Lights....................................................... 23
Trouble-Shooting Guide ................................................... 26
Service Procedures ........................................................... 28
Cyclone & Atom Specifications......................................... 31
Product Warranty ............................................................. 32
Cyclone & Atom Hook-Up Photo ................................... 33
2 CYCLONE & ATOM INSTRUCTION MANUAL
FEATURES LISTING
The Cyclone and Atom ESCs are loaded with features, such as:
• Highest motor control frequency (up to 23,400 Hz).
• 256 discrete steps forward & 256 discrete steps braking
for smoothest trigger response available (0.39% per step).
• Adjustable minimum brake that can be set from 0% to
75% with the use of a simple adjustment pot.
• Three different user-selectable profiles to suit the desired
application (off-road, touring sedan, 1/12 scale, oval, etc.)
and ability to store one Custom Profile (created with the
optional Pit Wizard #1035 or ESC Profile Software #1030).
Accessed with the One-Touch Set-Up™ button, these profiles
give racers extreme flexibility and a competitive advantage.
• The Data Link™ allows the ESC to be connected to the
Novak Pit Wizard or ESC Profile Software w/IBM compat. PC.
• Quickest response to change in transmitter signal (fewer
than 500 micro seconds).
• Low-voltage operation enables the ESC’s control electron-
ics to work error free down to 2 volts DC.
• Polar Drive Technology™ and HYPERFET III™ transistors
provide smooth throttle control and cool running operation.
This technology also provides improved radio system perfor-
mance by reducing motor-generated radio interference.
• Radio Priority Circuitry™ maintains control of the vehicle
after the battery pack has “dumped,” and helps eliminate
servo jitters during heavy-load applications.
• Built-in 6-volt/3-amp BEC (Battery Eliminator Circuit) to
power the radio system and the most power-hungry servos,
without the use of an external receiver battery. The BEC cir-
cuit is fully protected from overloading.
• Low-resistance Solder Posts for quick installation, clean re-
placement, and unlimited positioning of any size power wires.
• Built-in Brake Light Circuitry and Brake Light LED Kit are
included to power two external LEDs, adding realism to
Formula 1 and touring cars. (Cyclone only)
CYCLONE & ATOM INSTRUCTION MANUAL 3
STEP 1: CHANGING THE INPUT HARNESS
1. The Cyclone and Atom ESCs include the Novak Input Plug
System™ to convert the Futaba J style signal harness to be
compatible with Airtronics/Sanwa (AIR), KO, Kyosho (KYO),
and JR/Hitec/AIR Z (JR) receivers. Refer to Figures 1-5
NOTE: It is important that the metal locking tabs do not extend
outside the plastic plug housing.
FIGURE 1 Additional Plugs Included
AIR KO KYO JR
Airtronics/Sanwa KO Propo Kyosho JR/Hitec/AIR Z
FIGURE 2 With a small standard
screwdriver, press on each of the
three metal prongs until the wires
are easy to remove. Remove wires.
Continued
4 CYCLONE & ATOM INSTRUCTION MANUAL
STEP 1: Changing the Input Harness (continued)
FIGURE 3 With the screwdriver, carefully lift each of the
metal locking tabs to the angle shown below.
FIGURE 4 Insert each pin into the correct plug slot. Each
pin should "click" into place. (Airtronics plug shown)
The locking tab must
not extend outside the
plastic plug housing.
WHT = White wire terminal (signal)
BLK = Black wire terminal (negative)
RED = Red wire terminal (positive)
CAUTION: Improper installation of these wires may cause
damage to the receiver, servo, and speed control.
CYCLONE & ATOM INSTRUCTION MANUAL 5
STEP 1: Changing the Input Harness (continued)
• If you have an Airtronics/Sanwa Z-style receiver, you will
need to change the input signal harness of the Novak
speed control to the JR plug plastic. Refer to Figure 5
FIGURE 5 JR plug plastic
• To plug the speed control harness into the Z-style receiver,
make sure that the white (signal) wire side of of the
connector is toward the middle of the receiver.
Refer to Figure 6
FIGURE 6 JR plug plastic wired into Z-style receiver
White wire towards
middle of receiver.
6 CYCLONE & ATOM INSTRUCTION MANUAL
STEP 2: MOUNTING INSTRUCTIONS
The following information will help ensure that the Atom
and Cyclone perform at maximum efficiency, and will
minimize the chances of overheating and radio interference.
1. DETERMINE THE BEST ESC MOUNTING LOCATION
To pr event radio interference, the speed control should be
positioned away from the receiver and antenna as shown
in the Cyclone/Atom Hook-Up Photo (Figure 11).
Choose a mounting position where the power wires will
not obstruct movement of the T-Bar or suspension.
Although heat sinks are not required, cooler operating
temperatures mean higher efficiency, so pick a mounting
position to allow maximum airflow through the transistors.
2. INSTALL THE SPEED CONTROL
Mount the speed control with the included double-sided
tape to isolate it from shock and vibration.
3. INSTALL THE SPEED CONTROL’S ON/OFF SWITCH
Determine a convenient place to mount the switch where
it will be easily accessible. Mount the switch using a piece
of double-sided tape or a screw.
4. INSTALL THE RECEIVER
Mount the receiver as far from the ESC, motor, power wires,
battery, and servo as possible. These components emit radio
noise when the throttle is applied. If you have a graphite or
aluminum chassis, place the receiver on edge with the crystal
and antenna away from the chassis. Use the double-sided
tape provided to mount and isolate from shock and vibration.
Continued
CYCLONE & ATOM INSTRUCTION MANUAL 7
STEP 2: Mounting Instructions (continued)
5. INSTALL THE ANTENNA
Mount the antenna as close to the receiver as possible. Trail
any excess wire off the top of the antenna mast.
NOTE: Do not cut or coil excess wire, or range will be reduced.
STEP 3: HOOK-UP INSTRUCTIONS
1. INSTALL MOTOR CAPACITORS (Refer to Figure 7)
Electric motors generate radio noise that can interfere with
your receiver and cause radio problems. Included in the speed
control's accessory kit are three 0.1µF (50V) non-polarized,
ceramic capacitors. These capacitors must be installed on
every motor to help reduce the noise generated by the motor
and also to prevent possible damage to the speed control.
Solder 0.1µF (50V) capacitors between:
• POSITIVE (+) motor tab & NEGATIVE (–) motor tab.
• POSITIVE (+) motor tab & GROUND tab*.
• NEGATIVE (–) motor tab & GROUND tab*.
FIGURE 7
Ground/Motor Can*
Negative (–) Motor Tab
0.1
µ
F
Capacitors
Schottky Diode
Positive (+) Motor Tab
*If motor does not have ground
tab, solder to the motor can.
8 CYCLONE & ATOM INSTRUCTION MANUAL
Continued
STEP 3: Hook-Up Instructions (continued)
2. INSTALL SCHOTTKY DIODE (Refer to Figure 7)
The Cyclone uses an internal Schottky diode, while the Atom
does not. For added performance, it is recommended that an
external Schottky diode be installed on all motors, and must be
used with the Atom. This will increase the efficiency and reduce
the operating temperature of the speed control.
Solder the lead closest to the silver stripe on the Schottky to
the POSITIVE (+) motor tab. Solder the lead opposite the silver
stripe on the Schottky to the NEGATIVE (–) motor tab.
NOTE: If installed backwards, a Schottky diode will be destroyed. The
body of a bad diode will normally crack open. Replace only with
Schottky diodes that have a minimum rating of 35 volts DC/8 amps.
Schottky diodes are available in Novak Kit #5640, and 0.1µF capaci-
tors in Novak Kit #5620.
3. INSTALL POWER CAPACITOR
Included with the Cyclone & Atom is a high-frequency, low-
impedance power capacitor, that will improve the ESC’s
performance by dropping the operating temperature 10-15°F.
It is necessary to install this power capacitor to dissipate noise
and smooth voltage spikes generated by the ESC’s ultra-fast
switching circuit, especially in heavy-load applications, and
when ambient temperature exceeds 85°F. Extra power
capacitors are available in Novak Kit #5670.
NOTE: Failure to use the power capacitor may result in damage to
the speed control and will void the warranty.
As the Cyclone & Atom speed controls were designed to allow
greater flexibility for the user, they come with the power
capacitor and power wires unattached. This allows you to
install the power capacitor and position the power wires
according to your individual car set-up.
The power capacitor is polarized with the side of the negative
Continued
CYCLONE & ATOM INSTRUCTION MANUAL 9
STEP 3: Hook-Up Instructions (continued)
lead (short lead) marked with a stripe and minus (–) sign. The
positive lead (long lead) is unmarked.
Two methods of connecting a power capacitor to both the
Atom and Cyclone are:
METHOD ONE: Solder Power Capacitor to Solder Posts
Refer to Figures 8 & 9
Using some of the supplied mounting tape, attach the power
capacitor to the side of the speed control so the negative lead
can be soldered to the solder post marked BLK and the posi-
tive lead can be soldered to the post marked RED. For
protection, slide a piece of small vinyl tubing (included) over
each lead of the power capacitor. Solder the power capaci-
tor leads to the appropriate solder posts.
FIGURE 8 Example of Method
One—Power Capacitor soldered
to Solder Posts and mounted to
side of Cyclone.
Insulate leads
with vinyl tubing.
FIGURE 9 Another example of
Method One—Power Capacitor
soldered to Solder Posts and
mounted to back of Cyclone.
METHOD TWO: Solder Power Capacitor to Power Wires
Refer to Figure 10
Solder the power capacitor to the black (negative) and red
(positive) power wires. Although the capacitor can be
connected to the power wires anywhere from the speed
control to the battery, the closer it is to the speed contr ol, the
more effective the power capacitor will be.
Continued
10 CYCLONE & ATOM INSTRUCTION MANUAL
STEP 3: Hook-Up Instructions (continued)
Make a small splice on the black and red power wires. Solder
the power capacitor’s negative lead to the splice on the black
power wire. Solder the power capacitor’s positive lead to the
splice on the red power wire.
Slide the included large heat shrink tubing over the capacitor
and connection. This will protect the capacitor from vibration
and the capacitor’s leads from short-circuiting.
FIGURE 10 Example of Method Two, Power Capacitor soldered to
the Cyclone’s (or Atom’s) red & black Power Wires.
Black Power Wire
(to Battery Negative)
A
Red Power Wire
(to Battery & Motor Positive)
Heat-Shrink Tubing will
protect the capacitor from
vibration and short-circuits.
B
NOTE: Power Capacitor
should be attached where
it fits your car best (top or
bottom of power wires).
4. INSTALL POWER WIRES
The Cyclone comes with Super-Flex 12™ gauge power wires
and the Atom comes with 14 gauge power wires which
solder onto low-resistance Solder Posts. With the use of
Solder Posts, you can change what gauge power wire is used,
the position of the wires, and replace the wires with ease.
Sets containing blue, red, and black pre-tinned wires are
available in Novak Kits #5507 for 14G, #5517 for 16G, and
#5537 for Super-Flex 12™.
Continued
CYCLONE & ATOM INSTRUCTION MANUAL 11
STEP 3: Hook-Up Instructions (continued)
To Install Power Wires: T in the end of the power wires and the
Solder Posts. Solder the power wires to their respective posts.
The color designation for the wire is etched on the ESC’s case,
next to the corresponding solder post.
SOLDERING TIP: Be careful not to position the power wires over the
transistor tabs. When soldering, it is important to work quickly! Be
careful not to apply excessive heat as the solder posts will transfer
heat quickly to the Cyclone or Atom’s PC board, causing the solder
to reflow. Do not use high temperature solder (e.g. Silver Solder).
However, using an iron without enough power will also overheat
the post and PC board before it reflows the solder.
For #5 through #9 refer to Cyclone Hook-Up Photo (Figure 11)
5. CONNECT SPEED CONTROL TO THE RECEIVER
After the proper input plug plastic has been installed to match
the receiver (Refer to Step 1), plug the speed control into the
THROTTLE CHANNEL of the receiver.
6. MAKE SURE SPEED CONTROL IS SWITCHED OFF
7. CONNECT SPEED CONTROL TO THE BATTERY PACK
Cut the BLACK power wire of the speed control to the desired
length and strip about 1/4” of insulation off the end. Solder to
the negative side of a completely charged 4 to 10 cell battery
pack (1.2 volt DC/cell).
Strip a short section of insulation (1/4”–3/8”) from the middle
section of the RED power wire of speed control where it will
attach to positive of battery pack. Solder the stripped section
of RED power wire to positive of battery pack.
8. CONNECT SPEED CONTROL TO THE MOTOR
Cut the BLUE power wire of the speed control to the desired
length and strip about 1/4” of insulation off the end. Solder to
the negative tab of the motor.
Cut the RED power wire of the speed control (after battery
Continued
12 CYCLONE & ATOM INSTRUCTION MANUAL
STEP 3: Hook-Up Instructions (continued)
pack connection) to desired length and strip about 1/4” of
insulation off the end. Solder to positive tab of motor.
9. USING PLUGS FOR BATTERY & MOTOR CONNECTION
High-quality/low-resistance connector plugs, such as Dean’s
Ultra Plugs, can also be used to connect the motor and battery
pack. Be sure to use connectors that can not be connected
backwards, as this will damage the speed control.
NOTE: It is good practice to use a female connector on the main
battery pack to keep the pack from shorting if the connector
touches a conductive surface.
If you plan to use connector plugs for both the battery pack
and the motor, use a male connector on the ESC wires going
to the battery pack and a female connector on the wires going
to the motor. By doing this, you will avoid plugging the battery
pack into the motor output of the ESC by mistake.
PERFORMANCE TIP: For improved radio
performance, try twisting the BLUE & RED
motor wires one or two times as they go from
the speed control to the motor . This can help
reduce any radio noise that may be emitted
from the power wires.
CYCLONE & ATOM INSTRUCTION MANUAL 13
STEP 4: TRANSMITTER ADJUSTMENTS
BASIC TRANSMITTER ADJUSTMENTS
1. Set HIGH ATV or EPA to maximum setting.
[Controls amount of throw from neutral to full throttle]
2. Set LOW ATV, EPA, or ATL to maximum.
[Controls amount of throw from neutral to full brakes.]
NOTE: Reduce this after performing One-Touch Set-Up to
reduce amount of brakes.
3. Set EXPONENTIAL to zero.
[Controls the linearity of the throttle channel]
4. Set THROTTLE CHANNEL TRIM to middle setting.
[Adjusts the neutral position of the throttle channel]
5. Set MECHANICAL THROW ADJUSTMENT to position
with 2/3 throttle and 1/3 brake throw.
[Adjusts pistol-grip transmitter’s throttle trigger throw]
6. Set ELECTRONIC THROW ADJUSTMENT to 7:3, 70%
forward and 30% brake.
7. Set all other transmitter throttle settings to the transmitter
default settings.
SPECIFIC TRANSMITTER ADJUSTMENTS
The following charts show exact settings for today’s most
popular transmitters used for racing. These settings will
provide maximum linearity and control, and the smoothest
feel for the Cyclone and Atom ESCs.
Continued
14 CYCLONE & ATOM INSTRUCTION MANUAL
STEP 4: Transmitter Adjustments (continued)
TRANSMITTER CHART ABBREVIATIONS
CW Clockwise
CCW Counter-Clockwise
F Full throttle trigger position
B Full brake trigger position
AIRTRONICS CL-3PS
FIRST: With the trigger in the brake position, set EPA/TH to 90%,
then adjust the TH-EPA-L knob to full counter-clockwise position.
EPA/TH (F/B) ARC-TH REV-TH TH-TRIM
140%/160% 0% NOR
NOTE: After speed control set-up, the TH-EPA-L knob will be
used to reduce maximum push brake.
(Middle)
AIRTRONICS CS-2P
TH-EXPO EPA-HIGH EPA-LOW Rev.Switch TH-TRIM
NOR (cw) (cw) (cw) NOR (Middle)
NOTE: After speed control set-up, the EPA-LOW pot will be
used to adjust maximum push brake.
AIRTRONICS M8
EPA-(BR/HI) EXP-(BR/HI) TRM(SUB) REV TRIM-TH
110%/125% 0%/0% 0 NORMAL (Middle)
NOTE: After ESC set-up,TRIM-TH will be used to adjust coast
brake, and the “+ BRAKE –“ thumb-switch will be used to
reduce maximum push brake (do not go above 110% EPA-BR).
CYCLONE & ATOM INSTRUCTION MANUAL 15
Continued
STEP 4: Transmitter Adjustments (continued)
KO PROPO PRECIOUS
SUB•TRIM(TH) REV. SW(TH) Trim: Pos(TH) TH: PUNCH(F/B)
0 REVE 0% 0%/0%
TH: HiPOT TH: BRAKE
H100 B100
NOTE: After speed control set-up, TH-BRAKE will be used to
adjust maximum push brake.
KO PROPO MARS
SUB•TRIM(TH) REVERSE(TH) Et2:Pos(TTrim) TH: PUNCH(F/B)
0 REVE 0 0%/0%
TH: HiPOT Et4:Pos(BRAK)
H100 100
NOTE: After speed control set-up, Et4 will be used to adjust
maximum push brake.
FUTABA 3PJ
SUB.TR TH.N
0% 7:3 REV 100% 90%/110% 0%/0%
NOTE: After speed control set-up, ATL will be used to adjust
maximum push brake.
SERVO REVERSE
ATL ATV (F/B) EXP (F/B)
16 CYCLONE & ATOM INSTRUCTION MANUAL
STEP 5: SPEED CONTROL SET-UP
Before beginning this step, the speed control should be
connected to the receiver and to a charged battery pack
(4-10 cells for the Cyclone, 4-6 cells for the Atom), and the
transmitter should be adjusted according to Step 4.
1. TURN ON THE TRANSMITTER
2. TURN ON THE SPEED CONTROL
Slide the ON/OFF switch to the ON position.
3. With the transmitter throttle in the neutral position, press
and hold the ESC's 1-TOUCH button (One-Touch Tool
included) until the status LED turns solid red (approxi-
mately three seconds).
NOTE: If the 1-TOUCH button is pressed for fewer than 3 seconds, the
LED will blink red six times and you will need to start this process over.
4. RELEASE THE SPEED CONTROL’S 1-TOUCH BUTTON
5.PULL THE TRANSMITTER’S TRIGGER TO THE FULL
THROTTLE POSITION (Refer to Figure 12)
This must be done as soon as you release the 1-TOUCH
button to ensure that the speed control learns the Full
Throttle position. Moving the trigger gradually and/or
hesitating after releasing the 1-TOUCH button may cause
less than the Full Throttle position to be learned. Hold the
trigger there until the status LED turns solid green.
NOTE: The motor will not run during set-up even if it is connected to
the speed control.
6. PUSH THE TRANSMITTER’S TRIGGER TO THE FULL
BRAKE POSITION (Refer to Figure 13)
Continued
CYCLONE & ATOM INSTRUCTION MANUAL 17
STEP 5: Speed Control Set-Up (continued)
This must be done as soon as the LED turns solid green to
ensure that the speed control learns the Full Brake
position. Moving the trigger gradually and/or hesitating
after the status LED turns solid green may cause less than
the Full Brake position to be learned. Hold the trigger
there until the status LED blinks green.
7. RETURN TRANSMITTER’S THROTTLE TO NEUTRAL
POSITION
The status LED will turn solid red, indicating that proper
programming has been completed.
Your speed control is now set and ready to race!
NOTE: If transmitter settings are changed, it will be necessary to
complete the above sequence again. If problems are experienced
during set-up, turn off the speed control and repeat all steps in
this section.
FIGURE 12 Full Throttle position.
18 CYCLONE & ATOM INSTRUCTION MANUAL
FIGURE 13 Full Brake position.
STEP 6: THROTTLE PROFILE SELECTION
Since drivers have their own
racing preferences, the Cyclone &
Atom are factory-programmed
with three user-selectable
profiles to choose from. This
chart describes them.
Measurement Units % % KHz KHz
Minimum Drive
Dead Band
1 Stock 6 6.0 3.90 5.86
2 Drag Brake 6 6.0 5.86 7.80
3 Modified 4 1.5 3.90 15.60
PROFILE
NOTE: These three profiles are not exclusive to the listed applications.
Experiment with all three profiles and see which works best for your
particular use.
Before beginning this step, the ESC should be connected to
the receiver and to a charged battery pack (4-10 cells for the
Cyclone; 4-6 cells for the Atom).
1. TURN ON THE TRANSMITTER
2. TURN ON THE SPEED CONTROL
3.PRESS AND HOLD THE ESC'S 1-TOUCH BUTTON until
the status LED turns solid green (approximately six
seconds). The LED will first turn red. A few seconds later it
will turn solid green.
4. RELEASE THE 1-TOUCH BUTTON and approximately one
second later, the status LED will blink red. The number of
times the LED blinks indicates the profile number selected.
For example if the status LED blinks red twice after the
button is released, then profile 2 is selected, and so forth.
CYCLONE & ATOM INSTRUCTION MANUAL 19
Drive Frequency
Brake Frequency
Continued
STEP 6: Throttle Profile Selection (continued)
5. After the status LED is finished blinking, press and release
the 1-TOUCH button. This will select the next profile and
the LED will blink the appropriate number of times to
indicate which profile is selected.
NOTE: After profile 3 has been selected, the selection process
rolls over to profile 1.
6. Once you have selected the desired profile and the 1-Touch
button has not been pressed for approximately five
seconds, the speed control loads the selected profile into
memory, exits the profile selection mode, and the status
LED turns solid red. The selected profile is stored in a non-
volatile memory, which will remain stored after the speed
control’s power has been turned off.
CUSTOM PROFILE NOTE: The Cyclone & Atom are able to
access a fourth profile. This Custom Profile can only be created
with the Novak Pit Wizard or ESC Profile Software (connected
via the ESC’s Data Link
™). Once a customized profile has
been created and downloaded into the ESC, the throttle profile selection will have a profile 4. You may access this profile
by following the same procedures in this step (if status LED
blinks red four times after the button is released, then the
Custom Profile is selected).
Wizard or ESC Profile Software instruction manual.
For further details refer to the Pit
Programmable parameters with the Novak Pit Wizard
(#1035) or ESC Profile Software (#1030) include:
• Neutral Position • Drag Brake Frequency*
• Full Throttle Position • Drive PWM Frequency*
• Full Brake Position • Brake PWM Frequency*
• Dead Band Value • Minimum Drive Value
• Drag Brake Value • Drag Brake Toggle (on/off)
*Adjustable from 122 Hz to 23,400 Hz
Continued
20 CYCLONE & ATOM INSTRUCTION MANUAL
STEP 6: Throttle Profile Selection (continued)
FIGURE 14 General Diagram of Minimum Brake, Dead
Band and other parameters.
Full
100
50
20
10
100
50
20
10
% FULL BRAKE
Full
Brake
256 Discrete Steps
TRIGGER POSITION
to Full Brake
Minimum
Brake [20%]
DEADBAND
15%
Neutral
256 Discrete Steps
to Full Throttle
Minimum
[10%]
Drive
Throttle
MINIMUM BRAKE ADJUSTMENT
The Cyclone & Atom come with a Minimum Brake
Adjustment feature to give the user control over the starting
value of the brake throw. This adjustment is made with the
ESC’s BRAKE pot, using the included adjustment screwdriver.
DO NOT rotate the pot beyond its end stop—this will
damage the pot and void the warranty.
• By turning the BRAKE adjustment pot clockwise , the
amount of minimum brake is increased to a maximum of
75% of the total brake throw.
• When the BRAKE pot is turned all the way counter-
clockwise , the amount of minimum brake is set to
0.39%. This means that the first brake pulse is 0.39% of
the total brake throw.
CYCLONE & ATOM INSTRUCTION MANUAL 21
% FULL DRIVE
FET SERVO CONNECTION
The Cyclone & Atom are wired for connecting a FET Servo.
This type of servo requires a fourth wire connection. The
fourth wire from the servo is connected to the small, blue
24-gauge silicone wire coming out of the ESC. In the
Cyclone, this wire supplies 6 volts of power to the servo and
is controlled by the speed control’s ON/OFF switch. In the
Atom, this wire supplies battery voltage to the servo, and is
also controlled by the speed control’s ON/OFF switch.
NOTE: Do not allow the blue FET servo wire to come in contact
with the chassis or battery terminal, as this may damage the
power switch, switch wires and the speed control’s PC board, consequently voiding the product warranty.
If you experience radio glitching with the installation of the
FET servo, try installing a 10µH inductor (usually supplied
with servo) in series with the blue wire as shown in Figure 15.
FIGURE 15 Installing a 10µH inductor in series to the
speed control’s small blue wire.
10 µH inductor
Wire from
Blue Wire from
speed control
FET servo
22 CYCLONE & ATOM INSTRUCTION MANUAL
USING A RECEIVER BATTERY PACK
The Cyclone & Atom do not require an external receiver
battery pack for most racing situations. Built-in Radio Priority
Circuitry™ provides complete control of the steering servo
even after the main battery pack has "dumped" and can no
longer provide the power required to operate the motor.
However, applications using multiple high-powered servos,
and/or main battery packs with 8 (Cyclone only) or more cells
require the use of an external receiver battery pack to prevent
overloading of the ESC’s voltage regulator. Failure to use a
receiver battery pack in these applications may result in
damage to the voltage regulator and will void the product
warranty.
1. Plug an external 5-cell nickel cadmium (1.2 V DC/cell)
receiver battery pack into the battery slot of the receiver.
2. Leave the ESC’s ON/OFF switch in the OFF position. This
switch is not used with this configuration.
3. Use the ON/OFF switch on the external receiver battery
pack to turn the system power on and off.
INSTALLING BRAKE LIGHTS
NOTE: The Atom does not include brake light circuitry.
The Cyclone is equipped with built-in Brake Light Circuitry
and includes Novak's Brake Light LED Kit for easy installation
of brake lights. The Brake Light Kit includes: two LEDs, two
brake light mounting brackets, JST connector harnesses,
double-sided mounting tape, heat shrink tubing and screws.
Continued
CYCLONE & ATOM INSTRUCTION MANUAL 23
Installing Brake Lights (continued)
TO CONNECT BRAKE LIGHTS TO THE CYCLONE
Refer to Figure 16
1. Strip about 1/4" of insulation off both the small (26-gauge)
red & black brake light wires that exit the side of the Cyclone.
2. Remove the insulation from the JST harness that is pre-
stripped at the end of the wire and slip the heat shrink
tubing over each wire.
3. Connect the JST harness to the brake light wires of the
speed control by twisting or soldering the two wires. Con-
nect the black (negative) JST wire to the black 26-gauge
ESC wire, and the red (positive) JST wire to the red
26-gauge ESC wire. If you are using two LEDs, connect both
of the red wires from the JST harnesses to the ESC’s small red
wire. Do the same for the small black wire.
4. Slide the heat shrink tubing over the twisted or soldered
wire connection. Heat the shrink tubing with a heat gun,
lighter, or hair dryer to insulate the connection. This will
protect the ESC from a shorting if wires are left exposed.
5. Insert the LED into the mounting bracket so the two metal
leads go into the large opening, then through two of the
small holes on the back of the bracket. The metal lead on
the flat side of the LED is the positive lead.
6. Connect the JST connector to the LED leads with the posi-
tive (flat side) lead going to the side of the JST connector
marked RED, and the negative lead (opposite flat side)
going to the side of the JST connector marked BLK.
Connecting the LED backwards will not cause damage, but
the LED will not illuminate.
Continued
24 CYCLONE & ATOM INSTRUCTION MANUAL
Installing Brake Lights (continued)
MOUNTING THE BRAKE LIGHT BRACKETS
The brake light brackets can be mounted behind the taillight
section of the car body, or onto most any vertical or horizontal surface on the chassis or body.
• To mount the brackets to the taillight section, insert the
screws through holes in the car body and into the screw
openings in the bracket.
• To mount the brackets to the chassis, either use Shoe-
Goo™, double-sided mounting tape, the existing screw
hole, or drill two holes at the proper spacing.
Congratulations!
You’ve just made your R/C car even hotter by adding real-
istic brake lights which will operate when your Cyclone is
in neutral or during braking. Have fun!
Twist or solder the two small
ESC brake light wires to wires
on JST harness(es). Seal
connection with shrink tubing.
Insert LED into mounting
bracket and connect the
LED’s metal leads to JST
connector harness.
FIGURE 16 Brake Light Set-Up Photo
CYCLONE & ATOM INSTRUCTION MANUAL 25
TROUBLE-SHOOTING GUIDE
This section describes possible speed control problems,
causes and solutions. For additional help, please call Novak
Technical Assistance.
Cyclone or Atom Will Not Program Properly
• Too little transmitter throw—Increase the ATV/EPA setting
to maximum.
• Make sure ESC is plugged into the throttle channel of
receiver. Check throttle channel operation with a servo.
• ESC’s 1-TOUCH button not held long enough —Press and
hold 1-TOUCH button until status LED turns solid red.
Loss of Throttle Control
• ESC affected by excessive vibration or a hard impact—
Isolate speed control from shock and vibrations with
mounting tape, as recommended in Step 2.
• Repeat One-Touch Set-Up process.
• Internal Polar Drive Capacitor is blown—Refer to Service
Procedures.
Steering Channel Works, But Motor Will Not Run
If status LED is solid RED at all throttle positions:
• No signal from receiver —Make sure ESC is plugged into
throttle channel of receiver. Check throttle channel
operation with a servo. Check the wiring color sequence of
the ESC's input harness. On Airtronics/Sanwa Z-style
receiver, be sure white signal wire side of plug is towards
the inside of the receiver.
If status LED is RED at neutral/GREEN at full throttle:
• Check motor connections. Check motor and brushes.
Continued
26 CYCLONE & ATOM INSTRUCTION MANUAL
Trouble-Shooting Guide (continued)
Other causes:
• ESC is not set—Repeat One-Touch Set-Up process.
• Check wiring and connections. Check operation of system
without ESC.
Receiver Glitches/Throttle Stutters During Acceleration
• Motor capacitors broken or missing—Refer to STEP 3.
• Receiver or antenna too close to speed control, power wires,
battery, or motor—Refer to STEP 2.
• Bad connections—Check wiring and connectors.
• Excessive current to motor—Use a milder motor or smaller
pinion gear.
• Motor brushes worn—Replace brushes. As motor brushes
wear, excessive motor noise will be generated. The motor
commutator may need to be cleaned or trued to help the
motor run more efficiently.
• Internal Polar Drive Capacitor is blown—Refer to Service
Procedures.
ESC Is Melted Or Burnt/ESC Runs With Switch Off
• Internal damage—Refer to Service Procedures.
CYCLONE & ATOM INSTRUCTION MANUAL 27
SERVICE PROCEDURES
PLEASE NOTE: Speed controls that operate normally when
received will be charged a minimum service fee and return
shipping/handling costs.
Before sending in your speed control for service, it is important
that you review the Trouble-Shooting Guide and all
instructions. The speed control may appear to have failed
when other problems exist in the system such as a defect in
the transmitter, receiver or servo, incorrect adjustments/
installation.
• If you have a Custom Profile installed on your speed
control, Novak recommends you make a copy of it
before sending your speed control in, as Novak cannot
guarantee that it will remain in the ESC after servicing.
• Do not cut the input harness or switch harness off the
speed control before sending it in for service. Cut wires
must be replaced for testing purposes, and will be
charged the current service fees.
• Hobby dealers or distributors are not authorized to
replace speed controls thought to be defective.
• If a hobby dealer returns your speed control for service,
submit a completed SERVICE CARD to the dealer and
make sure it is included with the speed control.
• Novak Electronics, Inc. does not make any electronic
components (transistors, resistors, etc.) available for sale.
Continued
28 CYCLONE & ATOM INSTRUCTION MANUAL
Service Procedures (continued)
WHAT TO SEND
Completely fill out all of the information requested on the
included SERVICE CARD and return it with your speed
control. This will help ensure proper servicing of your
product. It is not necessary to send the instruction manual,
box or accessories.
WARRANTY WORK
For warranty work, you MUST CLAIM WARRANTY on the
SERVICE CARD and attach a valid, dated receipt, or an invoice
from previous service work. If any warranty provisions have
been voided, there will be a service charge. Refer to Product
Warranty.
SERVICE OPTIONS
In addition to repairing the ESC, there are other service
options—Refer to the included SERVICE CARD.
SERVICE COSTS
The customer is responsible for all service costs (parts, labor,
and shipping/handling charges). Speed controls are returned
UPS/COD CASH ONLY—unless a VISA or MasterCard account
number or personal check information is provided on the
SERVICE CARD.
IN A HURRY?
Send items to Novak Electronics by a one or two-day
shipping service—such as UPS Red/Blue Label or Federal
Express Overnight. Customer assumes all shipping and
insurance charges.
Continued
CYCLONE & ATOM INSTRUCTION MANUAL 29
Service Procedures (continued)
HELPFUL INFORMATION YOU SHOULD KNOW:
• CUSTOMER SERVICE HOURS (Pacific Standard Time)
Monday-Thursday: 8 am - 5 pm
Friday: 8 am - 4 pm (Closed every other Friday)
PHONE: (714)* 833-8873
FAX: (714)* 833-1631
*Effective 4/18/98, area code will change to 949.
• SEND UNITS TO:
Novak Electronics, Inc.
18910 Teller Ave.
Irvine, CA 92612 USA
Attn: Service Department
• WEBSITE ADDRESS:
www.teamnovak.com
e-mail: customersupport@teamnovak.com
Novak’s website is an excellent source of information for
R/C car newcomers and veterans alike. Loaded with tons
of information about our products, as well as answers to
commonly asked questions, everything you ever wanted
to know about Team Novak can be found here including:
Product Information Pages; Q & A; Trouble-Shooting; Glos-
sary; Tech Talk; How-to; Customer Service; Team Secrets;
History; Hot News; Events and a Download section where
you can find up-to-date service cards and various instruc-
tion manuals. Whether you’re searching for specific
information, or just want to browse, check out Team
Novak’s website and enter the exciting world of R/C cars!
30 CYCLONE & ATOM INSTRUCTION MANUAL
SPECIFICATIONS
CYCLONE & ATOM SPECIFICATIONS
SPECIFICATION CYCLONE ATOM
Programmable........................................ Yes ....................... Yes
Discrete Steps (For/Rev) ........ 512 (256/256) ..... 512 (256/256)
Input Voltage (1.2VDC/cell)...........4-10 cells ................4-6 cells
Motor Limit .........................................None ....................None
Case Width (in/cm) ...................... 1.73/4.40 ............. 1.23/3.12
Case Depth (in/cm) ...................... 1.10/2.79 ............. 1.16/2.95
Case Height (in/cm) ..................... 0.79/1.99 ............. 0.69/1.75
Weight* (ounces/grams) ............... 1.44/40.8 ............. 1.00/28.4
On-Resistance
Drive Current† (amps)............................ 480 ...................... 240
Braking Current† (amps) ........................ 160 ........................ 80
Minimum Brake (adj.) ........................ 0-75% .................. 0-75%
Drive PWM Freq.** (KHz) ........ 5.86/7.8/15.6 .......5.86/7.8/15.6
Brake PWM Freq.** (KHz).......... 3.9/5.86/3.9 .........3.9/5.86/3.9
BEC (volts/amps) .............................. 6.0/3.0................. 6.0/3.0
Schottky Diode ................................ Internal ................ External
Topology ................................. Polar Drive™ ........ Polar Drive™
Transistor Type ...................... HYPERFET III™ ...... HYPERFET III™
Adjustment Type ........................ One-Touch........... One-Touch
Wire Size (gauge) ................ Super-Flex 12™........................ 14
Brake Light Circuitry ............................... Yes ........................No
Brake Light Kit ................................ Included ...................... N/A
Heat Sinks................................Not Required ...............Optional
†Transistor’s and diode’s rating @ 25°C junction temperature.
*Adj. from 122Hz to 23,400Hz using optional Pit Wizard or ESC Profile Software.
**Weight without heat sinks and 9” lengths of power wire.
•Cyclone & Atom include input plugs for use with the following: Futaba J,
Airtronics/Sanwa, KO, Kyosho, JR, Hitec, and Airtronics/Sanwa Z.
†
@Trans (Ω) ................. 0.00067 ............... 0.00130
CYCLONE & ATOM INSTRUCTION MANUAL 31
PRODUCT WARRANTY
Novak Electronics, Inc. guarantees the Cyclone & Atom
to be free from defects in materials and workmanship for
a period of 120 days from original date of purchase (veri-
fied by dated, itemized sales receipt). Warranty does not
cover incorrect installation, components worn by use,
damage from using more than 10 cells (1.2 volt DC/cell)
with Cyclone or 6 cells with Atom for input voltage, failing to properly insulate the ESC brake light wires resulting
in a short, cross-connection of battery/motor, using the
same type and gender plugs for both the battery and
motor connections, reverse voltage application, damage
resulting from thermal overload, damage from excessive
force when using 1-TOUCH button or Minimum Brake
adjustment pot, damage from incorrect installation of receiver battery pack or FET servo, shorting the blue FET
servo wire to negative battery terminal, damage from excessive force while installing or short-circuiting heat sinks,
damage from not installing three 0.1µF (50V) capacitors
on motor or not installing the power capacitor on ESC,
splices to switch or receiver signal harnesses, damage
from disassembling case, tampering with internal electronics, allowing water, moisture, or any other foreign
material to enter ESC or get onto PC board, incorrect installation of alternate input plug plastic or solder posts'
power wires, allowing exposed wiring to short-circuit, or
any damage caused by a crash.
In no case shall our liability exceed the product's original
cost. We reserve the right to modify warranty provisions
without notice.
Because Novak Electronics, Inc. has no control over connection and use of the ESC, no liability may be assumed
nor will be accepted for damage resulting from the use of
this product. Every ESC is thoroughly tested and cycled
before leaving our facility and is, therefore, considered
operational. By the act of connecting/operating ESC, the
user accepts all resulting liability.
32 CYCLONE & ATOM INSTRUCTION MANUAL
Keep Receiver and Antenna
away from motor, servo,
battery, and power wires.
Input Harness
Mount ON/OFF
Switch where it will
be easily accessible.
Blue FET Servo Wire
Brake Light Wires
(Cyclone only)
CYCLONE & ATOM INSTRUCTION MANUAL 33
–)
(
Black Power Wire
(Battery negative)
Data Link™
Minimum Brake
Adjustment Pot
LED
Power Capacitor
with heat shrink
One-Touch Button
Trail excess wire
off antenna mast.
(Do not cut or coil)
Twist motor wires
to reduce Radio
Frequency (RF) noise
Three 0.1µF
+)
(
(+)(–)
External
Schottky Diode
Blue Power Wire
(Motor negative)
FIGURE 11
Red Power Wire
(Motor and battery
positive)
CYCLONE & ATOM HOOK-UP PHOTO
(Cyclone shown)
CYCLONE & ATOM INSTRUCTION MANUAL
Capacitors
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