"Richard,

43 is no age, we have customers well into their retirement age using PICAXE.

A microcontroller like the 18M2 is basically a programmable device that looks at its inputs and send out outputs. You will need to wire the receiver to a digital input, the speed controller to a digital output and the position feedback device to an analogue input if it is a potentiometer or to a digital input if it is a switch or encoder. Any limit switches can also be wired to digital inputs. The 18M2 has many inputs and outputs, you do not need to use them all, just the ones needed.

You then write a BASIC program that depending on the input conditions controls the outputs. Your programme needs to measure the pulse coming from the receiver (see the pulsin command), then depending on this value, send a pulse to the speed controller (see servo command). Your programme can be quite simple or more complex if positional control is required. By that I mean, if you want the steering position to exactly track the transmitter joystick position then you will need a true position feedback (like a potentiometer or encoder). You can do a simpler and rather crude method but that will have limitations but your decision.

You can buy motor speed controllers that have a feedback option but will still need a potentiometer or encoder signal. This would replace the Electronize controller but will need to be rated at about 10A minimum.

The 18M2 is a really cost effective method of giving the same if not better solution without changing the hardware you have already purchased.

If you are not inclined to learn how to use the PICAXE, then return within 7 working days of receipt for a refund."

– Admin

"Richard,

As explained on the phone, you require a power servo. We also suggested that you read up on closed loop control.

There was no suggestion that this was a "plug and play" solution as we advised that you would need to carry out some BASIC language programming and there was a learning curve involved. The PICAXE is aimed towards senior school students as well as hobbyists so is certainly easier to learn than some other platforms.

You can use the PICAXE 18M2 as the 'brains' in turning your existing speed controller, motor and receiver into a power servo. We can assist you with advice in achieving this but you will still need to learn the basics of PICAXE programming first. We have a wealth of information that can be downloaded so that you can teach yourself.

If you feel that this is beyond your capability, hence why we suggested that you read through the PICAXE manuals first before purchasing, then return the items within 7 days of purchase for a refund.

This is certainly a solution for your application and is not too complex an application for a 18M2. "

– Admin

"David,

Thank you for the info. We actually has this download associated with other similar products but not this one but is now done."

– Admin