ETRONIX PHOTON 3.0 60A ESC / 13.0R 2950KV MOTOR COMBO ET0445

Overview

Unlock the convenience and performance of brushless technology with the Etronix Photon 3.0 60A ESC paired with a powerful 13.0R 2950KV brushless motor. This waterproof, sensorless system is designed for easy setup and represents an ideal upgrade from a stock brushed system, or the perfect starting point for upgrading your stock ready to run (RTR) brushless RC car build. Whether you're stepping into the world of brushless RC motorsport for the first time or looking to enhance an existing RC vehicle, the Photon 3.0 delivers reliable power, smooth throttle control, and exceptional value that makes it one of the most accessible brushless combos available to UK RC enthusiasts.

This combo is engineered specifically for 1/10-scale off-road applications and suits a wide variety of racing platforms. Whether you're running a 1/10-scale buggy, truggy, short-course truck, or stadium truck, the Photon 3.0 system delivers the performance and versatility you need to dominate whether you're racing competitively or bashing at the weekend. The waterproof construction means you can push your RC car hard in challenging conditions without worrying about moisture damage to your electronics, making this combo a genuinely all-weather solution for serious RC car UK enthusiasts.

With the included programmable ET0106 setup card, you can fine-tune sixteen different ESC parameters to perfectly match your driving style, skill level, and track conditions. This level of customisation means the Photon 3.0 grows with you as you develop as an RC driver, offering flexibility that far exceeds what you'd get from fixed-setting brushed electronics.

Key Features

• 60A Continuous Current Rating — The Photon 3.0 ESC is rated for a maximum continuous current of 60A with an impressive 360A burst current capability, providing more than enough power delivery for demanding 1/10-scale off-road racing without thermal throttling or performance loss during hard acceleration.
• 13.0R 2950KV Brushless Motor — This medium KV-rated motor strikes an excellent balance between speed and torque, making it suitable for a wide range of track types and driving styles without requiring multiple motor options for different setups.
• Waterproof ESC Design — The fully waterproof construction protects all electronics from water ingress, allowing you to race in wet conditions, muddy terrain, and adverse weather without fear of damage or performance degradation.
• Sensorless Operation — The sensorless brushless system eliminates the need for sensor wiring, reducing complexity during installation and maintenance whilst maintaining reliable starting and smooth power delivery across the entire throttle range.
• Programmable Setup Card (ET0106 Included) — Rather than being locked into fixed parameters, you can adjust sixteen different ESC functions using the included setup card, allowing you to customise throttle response, braking behaviour, coasting characteristics, and motor direction to suit your exact preferences.
• 2-3S LiPo Battery Compatibility — Supports standard 2S and 3S LiPo batteries as well as 5-10 cell NiMH/NiCd packs, giving you flexibility in battery choice and allowing you to upgrade to LiPo power when you're ready.
• 6V/3A BEC Output — The integrated BEC (Battery Elimination Circuit) provides regulated 6V power at 3A capacity, sufficient to power modern RC servo systems and receiver equipment without requiring a separate battery.
• Advanced Throttle Control Options — Sixteen adjustable parameters including throttle response (1-3ms), coast control, neutral range, minimum and maximum throttle settings, and separate forward and reverse braking forces give you complete command over how your RC car responds to input.
• Intelligent Brake System — Offers independent control over brake response time (0.1-3ms), minimum and maximum brake force (15-100%), and forward/reverse drag braking, allowing you to set up stopping power that suits your track conditions and driving technique.
• Motor Rotation Control — Easily switch between clockwise and counter-clockwise motor rotation using the programmable setup card, eliminating the need to physically rewire the motor if your installation requires reverse rotation.
• Multiple Running Modes — Choose from three different operating modes including Forward/Brake, Forward/Brake/Reverse, and Forward/Reverse, with selectable reverse activation using either single pull (One Shot) or double pull (Two Shots) for safety and control.
• LiPo Auto-Detection — When configured for LiPo use, the ESC automatically detects whether you're running a 2S or 3S battery and sets appropriate voltage cutoffs to protect your cells from over-discharge damage.
• Thermal Protection — Programmable thermal shutdown protection activates at either 95°C or 105°C, preventing damage from sustained high-current operation or inadequate cooling airflow.
• Compact Form Factor — At just 48x38x32mm (without fan) and weighing only 96g, the Photon 3.0 fits easily into confined chassis spaces, allowing maximum room for battery placement and weight distribution optimisation.

Technical Performance

The Etronix Photon 3.0 represents serious engineering packed into a compact brushless ESC designed from the ground up for 1/10-scale off-road racing. The 60A continuous current rating combined with a 360A burst capability ensures that peak power demands during hard acceleration, climb attempts, and high-grip surfaces are handled smoothly without thermal limiting. The 13.0R motor features a 2950KV rating that delivers excellent mid-range performance across diverse track conditions, providing strong initial punch whilst maintaining reasonable top-end speed without excessive heat generation or mechanical stress. The sensorless brushless system operates with precision timing algorithms that ensure smooth power delivery from zero throttle through to maximum, eliminating the hesitation or dead zones sometimes encountered in cheaper brushed alternatives. Waterproof construction throughout the ESC housing means you're not limited to dry conditions; this setup thrives in muddy terrain, river crossings, and weather-challenged days that would disable inferior electronics. The integrated 6V/3A BEC eliminates the need for a separate receiver battery in most applications, simplifying wiring and reducing weight. Build quality is evident in every detail, from the robust connectors to the precision-moulded housing that protects internal components. Sixteen programmable parameters mean this isn't a one-trick pony; instead, it's a versatile platform that adapts to your driving style, whether you favour aggressive acceleration or smooth, controlled delivery. The programmable setup card (ET0106) uses a simple interface that doesn't require computers or proprietary software, making adjustments trackside between heats fast and straightforward. Whether you're running on carpet, asphalt, dirt, or sand, the Photon 3.0's flexible power mapping ensures optimal performance without requiring multiple ESCs.

What's in the Box

• Etronix Photon 3.0 60A Waterproof Sensorless ESC
• 13.0R 2950KV Brushless Motor
• ET0106 Programmable Setup Card

What You Need to Complete

• LiPo Battery: 2S or 3S LiPo pack (alternative NiMH/NiCd 5-10 cell pack)
• LiPo Battery Charger: for recharging your LiPo batteries
• RC Car Chassis: compatible 1/10-scale buggy, truggy, short-course, or stadium truck
• Radio Control System: 2.4GHz RC receiver and transmitter
• Motor Connectors: depending on your ESC and motor connector type
• Servo: for steering control

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is the Etronix Photon 3.0 60A ESC suitable for beginners to brushless RC? — Absolutely, yes. The Photon 3.0 is specifically designed as an ideal entry point into brushless technology for drivers upgrading from brushed systems. The waterproof, sensorless design means straightforward installation with no complex sensor wiring, and the included ET0106 setup card provides intuitive control over key parameters without requiring computer software or technical expertise. Beginners appreciate the reliable, smooth power delivery and the ability to customise settings as their skills improve.
• What battery does the Photon 3.0 need? — The system supports 2S and 3S LiPo batteries, or alternatively 5-10 cell NiMH/NiCd battery packs if you prefer traditional chemistries. Most modern RC enthusiasts run 2S or 3S LiPo batteries due to their superior performance, lighter weight, and better power-to-size ratio. The ESC includes an ET0106 programmable card that allows you to configure automatic LiPo cell detection (for auto cut-off voltage protection) or manual settings for NiMH/NiCd chemistries.
• Can I use this combo in wet conditions? — Yes, the Photon 3.0 ESC is fully waterproof, making it ideal for wet grass, muddy terrain, and rainy weather conditions where brushed electronics would fail. The sensorless brushless motor itself tolerates moisture well when sealed properly. However, ensure your receiver and servo are also waterproofed if you're planning serious water fording or racing in heavy rain.
• How many adjustable parameters does the Photon 3.0 offer? — The ESC provides sixteen fully programmable parameters via the included ET0106 setup card, giving you extensive customisation. These include throttle response timing (1-3ms), coasting behaviour, neutral range width, minimum and maximum throttle/reverse force settings, brake response timing (0.1-3ms), minimum and maximum brake force, forward and reverse drag braking force, motor rotation direction, running mode selection (3 options), reverse mode activation method, LiPo cell detection, and thermal protection thresholds. This level of control is typically found only on much more expensive competition-grade ESCs.
• What's the difference between sensorless and sensored brushless motors? — Sensorless motors like the one included in this combo determine rotor position using back-EMF (electromotive force) sensing rather than dedicated position sensors, eliminating extra wiring complexity and potential sensor failure points. Sensored motors use hall-effect sensors for more precise commutation, particularly beneficial at very low speeds or for crawling applications. For general 1/10-scale racing and bashing, sensorless operation is fully adequate and preferred by most drivers due to simpler installation and lower cost.
• How does the 6V/3A BEC output compare to servo requirements? — The 6V/3A BEC is sufficient for most standard 1/10-scale servo installations, particularly modern digital servos which draw less current than older analogue models. However, if you're running multiple servos (e.g., steering plus some form of driveline control) or a particularly high-torque servo, verify your total servo current draw doesn't exceed 3A continuous. For most single-servo setups, the integrated BEC eliminates the need for a separate receiver battery entirely.
• Can I programme the Photon 3.0 without a computer? — Yes, that's one of the key advantages. The ET0106 programmable setup card uses a simple card-slot system with no computer software required. You insert the card into the ESC, use the included card to adjust parameters by moving tabs or settings, and reinsert it to update the ESC. This allows for quick trackside adjustments between heats without needing a laptop or specialist software.
• What is the maximum burst current rating? — The Photon 3.0 handles a maximum burst current of 360A, allowing brief high-power demands during hard acceleration or uphill climbs without limiting power output. The 60A continuous rating ensures sustained performance without thermal throttling during normal racing, whilst the burst capability gives you those explosive acceleration moments when needed.
• Is this combo suitable for competition racing? — Yes, the Photon 3.0 is a capable solution for recreational and club-level racing. The extensive customisation options and waterproof construction make it equally at home in competitive environments as in weekend bashing. However, hardcore competition racers running multiple heats may prefer ESCs with more advanced telemetry options or programmable via software apps. For most club-level racing and serious hobbyists, the Photon 3.0 is more than adequate.

Why Buy from RC Model Shop?

RC Model Shop is a trusted UK RC retailer and authorised dealer for all the brands we stock, including Traxxas, ARRMA, Losi, FTX, Hobbywing, Spektrum and more. Based in Walsall, we have a physical store where customers are welcome to come in, view products and purchase in store. Whether you are a seasoned competitor, a weekend basher, or just discovering the world of RC for the first time, our team of experienced RC enthusiasts is here to help you find the perfect setup and provide ongoing support. Order the ETRONIX PHOTON 3.0 60A ESC / 13.0R 2950KV MOTOR COMBO ET0445 today with confidence, knowing you are buying from an authorised retailer with genuine products, expert knowledge and a commitment to customer satisfaction. Shop online or visit us in Walsall — we look forward to helping you get the most out of your RC experience.