I. With Forward-Only Speed Controls
The Schottky diode works in conjunction with the speed control during partial throttle to carry recirculating current back from the motor during the 'off-time' of switching. External Schottky diodes take the place of internal ones on the Cyclone and Tempest, and reduce brake-fade that results from heat being transferred from the diode to the brake transistors. Schottky diodes are most efficient when located as close to the motor as possible, and will help reduce radio noise by limiting the distance large current spikes can travel. Using external schottky diodes on other forward-only speed controls like the Racer EX, Duster, Duster II, and Explorer can also help improve performance. Use of more than one external Schottky can further increase performance from a particular speed control and motor combination.
Motor with Schottky Photo
* Solder the lead CLOSEST to the silver stripe on the body of the Schottky diode to the POSITIVE (+) motor tab.
* Solder the lead OPPOSITE the silver stripe on the body of the Schottky diode to the NEGATIVE (-) motor tab.
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 / 8 amps.
Schottky diodes are available in Novak accessory kit #5640
II. With Reversible Speed Controls
‧NO SCHOTTKY DIODES WITH REVERSIBLES‧
Schottky diodes must NOT be used with reversible speed controls. Using a Schottky diode will damage the reversible speed control.