HYDRA X 8S, 33.6V ESC, 8A PEAK BEC

Name: HYDRA X 8S, 33.6V ESC, 8A PEAK BEC
Brand: Hydra
SKU: 010-0175-00
Price: 205.15 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 5 (2 reviews)

Hydra

Product #: 010-0175-00

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USD $205.15 /EA USD $269.95 /EA
25% discount
List Price: USD $328.95 /EA

Waterproof : Yes
Telemetry Capable : Yes
Data Logging : Yes
Auxiliary Wire : Yes
Minimum Input Voltage : 2S
Maximum Input Voltage : 8S
Sensored Capable : Yes
Recon G6 Certified ESC : No
ROAR Certified ESC : No
CRYO-DRIVE : Yes
B-Link Compatible : Yes

Availability: This item is in stock.

Introducing the newest addition to the world of RC hobby boats, the HYDRA X 8S. With its sleek design and powerful performance, it will push RC boats to their limits for the ultimate thrill ride on the water!

The HYDRA X 8S is based on our popular and powerful Mamba Monster X 8S. We've removed the air cooled heatsink and added a water-cooled heatsink. The final touch is an aluminum top plate that gives it a sleek and polished appearance. Attached to the top plate are two .17" aluminum water fittings and uses standard 10-32 UNF threads. The HYDRA X 8S is the ultimate enhancement that propels high-performance monohulls, up to 36 inches in length, to new heights.

HYDRA X 8S FEATURES:

Input Voltage Range 2S-8S LiPo (33.6v max)
Sensorless, SmartSense™ and Brushed Running Modes
Powerful Integrated 8A Peak Adjustable BEC (5.5V-8.0V)
CRYO-DRIVE™ Technology minimizes the amount of time the ESC’s electrical components spend generating heat, resulting in improved thermal performance during partial throttle operation where the majority of driving occurs
ESC is housed in a rugged CNC aluminum case and potted in waterproof epoxy to protect the electronics and promote efficient heat transfer
Machined water-cooled heatsink with .17" water fittings.
Compatible with S.BUS2 Telemetry Link and Futaba T4PX, T7PX and T7PXR transmitters

Data logging capability to capture and record performance data from your vehicle
Auxiliary wire functionality for "on-the-fly" adjustments using your transmitter
Audible alerts for easy diagnosis of common issues such as motor-over-temperature and low-voltage cutoff
Convenient transmitter programming for six common adjustable settings including cutoff voltage and drag brake
Castle Link USB programming kit (coupon included with purchase)
Optional smartphone-based programming with the B-LINK™ Bluetooth Adapter (sold separately) and Castle Link all available on Google Play or Apple App Store)
Proudly designed and manufactured in Olathe, KS USA and backed by Castle Creations' 1-year warranty

Hydra X 8S ESC COMES WITH:

Hydra X 8S ESC with water fittings for 1/8" tubing
Castle Creations Decals

Coupon for free Castle Link USB
Hydra X 8S Quick Start Guide

Resources
Hydra X 8S Quick Start	X-series Drivers Ed Guide	Audible Alert Reference

Product Use Statements
Calibration:	Individual transmitter signals for neutral, full throttle, and full brake vary. You must calibrate your Castle ESC so that it will operate effectively with your transmitter. Anytime the ESC is powered up with a new transmitter or with different throttle channel settings, it will need to be calibrated to the transmitter’s throttle settings. The ESC may also need to be calibrated after updating to new software via Castle Link.
Input Voltage:	Applying voltages higher than 33.6V will cause irreparable damage to your Hydra X8s controller. DO NOT RUN HV CELLS (above 4.2v/cell) WHEN RUNNING AT MAX CELL COUNT (8s). This will exceed the 33.6v rating and will damage the ESC and not be covered by the warranty.
Battery Capacity Minimum:	The Hydra X8s is a high-performance controller; you must use high-discharge cells in your high-performance application to ensure vehicle performance. MINIMUM battery capacity is 5000mAh and MINIMUM of 50C continuous discharge for general use For extreme setups we recommend a MINIMUM of 70C continuous discharge LiPo batteries. If the batteries you are using contain input bullets you might consider upgrading to a direct wired pack as the bullets may not be able to handle the currents that the Hydra X8s ESC can push out. If you must disable low voltage cutoff to prevent the ESC from shutting down then your batteries are insufficient for your application. 3.2v/cell is the lowest a LiPo battery should ever be discharged under load. Utilize the data logging capability of the ESC to verify your batteries are not sagging to the cutoff voltage. Exceeding a LiPo batteries capabilities can lead to a catastrophic failure of the battery and/or ESC.
Wiring and Soldering:	High strand count silicone coated copper wire is essential with higher power electric power systems. Castle Creations' wire is lower resistance than the same diameter of solid copper, meaning more power gets from the batteries to the motor with less wasted as heat. The ultra-high strand count and silicone coating means the wire is very flexible which prevents work hardening and breakage with use. Use a high quality soldering station. Soldering stations usually have a variable temperature control which lets you set the right amount of heat to be used. Too little heat will result in a cold solder joint; too much heat can seriously damage a component. The key factors in quality soldering are time and temperature. Our recommendation for the Hydra X8s is a temperature setting of 400° C (745° F). You want it hot and as short a time as possible. We use 250W soldering irons. Use a high quality rosin core solder. The rosin core solder is infused with flux which helps clean the surfaces you are soldering for better adhesion. Do not exceed more than 18 inches of total wire between the battery and ESC (this includes the wire already on the ESC and battery). Do not solder wires directly to the circuit board. Doing so will damage the ESC and void the warranty. Our wire is available for purchase and this link provides the appropriate wire gauge for your Castle ESC. http://www.castlecreations.com/wire-application-chart
.Connector Ratings Minimum:	The Hydra X8s requires the use of connectors designed for 130 amps continuous. We have tested and recommend Castle 6.5mm Polarized, Castle 8mm Bullet, QS8 Anti Spark and QS10 Anti Spark Do not use Deans, Traxxas, EC3/XT60, EC5/IC5, XT90/XT90s, or EC5/IC5, connectors in a Hydra setup
Motors:	The Hydra X8s is capable of handling incredible amounts of power, your motor must also be up for the task. Always run your motor within the manufacturer’s specs. Monitor motor, battery, and controller temps carefully and never let the motor get above 200° F. Excessive heat in the motor can damage the motor, the Hydra X8s, and your batteries. The default “Smart Sense™” modes uses the sensors (if applicable motor is used) to start the motor smoothly. Once the motor is running the ESC stops using the sensors and reverts to sensorless operation. If a sensored motor is not used, the ESC reverts to full sensorless operation.
Prop size:	When you are tuning a boat, expect some modifications in prop size to get it exactly where you want it. The goal here is to not overheat the motor, ESC, and/or batteries. Check your motor temps – never let the motor get above 200° F - invest in an infrared thermometer so you can monitor temps easily. You can also adjust MOTOR TEMPERATURE CUTOFF (with Sensored Motors Only) in Castle Link. When this setting is enabled, the controller will shut off if the motor reaches the specified temperature as indicated by its internal temperature sensor. We always recommend making small changes when propping up.
Castle Link Settings:	During the optimization of your setup it is critical to check motor and ESC temperatures after making adjustment. The heat limit threshold for Hydra X8s ESC is 200° F and Castle motors is 200° F. We recommend the use of the data log as you progress with the feel and power of the vehicle. You will be able to record real-time data such as motor RPM, battery current and voltage, ESC and motor temperature, throttle input, and more. Download and analyze the collected data via Castle Link and make adjustments to maximize both performance and battery life.
AUX Wire:	The AUX wire allows you to adjust a setting “on-the-fly” using an auxiliary channel on your receiver. The AUX wire function is disabled by default and is programmable via Castle Link. Plug this wire into the auxiliary (#3/#4) channel on your receiver. You MUST connect the AUX wire to an open channel on your receiver even if you are not using the Auxiliary function. You MUST disconnect the AUX wire from your radio before connecting to Castle Link. Failure to do so may result in damage to your Castle Link and/or computer.
Operating Environment Considerations:	Although Hydra X8s is waterproof, it is not intended for operation while completely submerged in liquid. Always rinse the ESC and motor with clean water after exposure to corrosives or dirt. The receiver harness and sensor harness connections at the board can be affected by water. While most boat hulls are watertight, water can find its way in. Applying dielectric grease to these connections can prevent corrosion and signal interruption if these connections are exposed to water.

Technical Specs
Application Guidelines:	RC Hobby boats up to 36" (Ideal for Proboat Impulse 32", Proboat Sonicwake 36", Traxxas Spartan, Traxxas M41 Caamaran)
Input Voltage Range:	MIN: 2S LiPo, MAX: 8S LiPo 33.6V
Running Modes:	Sensorless, Brushed and SmartSense™ when paired with a Castle 4-Pole Sensored Motor.
Brake:	Available, but disabled by default.
Reversible:	Available, but disabled by default.
On/Off Switch:	Yes, waterproof
Water cooling fittings	Two .17" fittings included. Uses 10-32 UNF threads.
Size:	Length: 69.5mm / Width: 54.1mm / Height: 24.7mm
Weight (with wires):	155.5 grams / 5.49 oz / .34 lbs
Continuous current rating*: (SEE NOTE BELOW)	140A
Burst current rating*: (SEE NOTE BELOW)	280A
Motor Connectors:	6.5mm female bullets on circuit board, matching 6.5mm male bullets for motor required (not included)
Items Needed for Operation:	The Hydra X 8S requires the use of connectors designed for 130 amps continuous, such as Castle 6.5mm polarized or CC BULLET 8.0MM, QS8 8mm Anti Spark or QS10 10mm Anti Spark. You will also need 6.5mm male bullets for the motor connections.
Operating environment:	All weather conditions (See Operating Environment Considerations)
Programmability:	Fully programmable Castle feature set using Castle Link USB adapter (coupon for free link included in package) and freely downloadable Castle Link Windows software, or the Castle Link App and a B-LINK Bluetooth Adapter (sold separately).
Telemetry Link Capable:	Yes, with Castle Creations Telemetry Link for S.BUS2 and Futaba T4PX, T7PX, T7PXR, and 10PX transmitters.
Tech Tips:	If replacing the water cooling fittings, it is recommended to use Loctite® 545 (or similar) on the threads. This will ensure a watertight, 25+ PSI strong seal.

For support, frequently asked questions, technical documents, and more, visit our support site.

Castle Creations, Inc. warrants this product to be free from manufacturing defects for a period of one year from date of purchase.

This is a high power product with the potential to be very dangerous. Please read the safety information before use. This product may contain chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and or birth defects or other reproductive harm.

*RC HOBBY CURRENT RATING: Castle does not generally publish amperage ratings for surface ESCs. There is no standardized industry method for testing and rating ESC current capabilities. Castle's testing methods tend to result in much lower numbers than our competitors; we feel our numbers better represent the products actual capabilities. But due to the difference in testing and rating methods, our ESCs can look weaker in comparison to our competition. Please keep that in mind.

The continuous current rating is for 5 minutes with proper cooling, adequate connectors, and batteries. Using improperly sized components can lead to ESC stress and failure that is not covered by the warranty. Controller temperature must never exceed 100° C (212° F). Exceeding current or temperature ratings may damage components and may shorten the life of the ESC. Always verify system current draw at full-throttle. Decrease load to decrease the ESC's operating temperature. Many users have pushed MUCH higher numbers, but Castle makes no guarantees on the long term reliability of the product or on the warranty.

The burst rating is for short, momentary periods lasting no more than 2 seconds. The time between bursts, how long the burst lasts, and water temperature will affect temperatures. Make sure all components in the system (battery, connectors, motor) are capable of handling said current. Closely monitor ESC, motor and battery temperatures and review ESC's data logs.

U.S. Patent # 7400103, 7492122, 7579796, 7740516, 8287328, 8678875, and 8905814 B2 - Other patents pending.

Controller designed and circuit boards manufactured, in Olathe, Kansas USA.
Controller assembled in Olathe, Kansas USA.

Product Features
	Castle’s newest software technology, CRYO-DRIVE™ minimizes the amount of time the ESC's electrical components spend generating heat by optimally controlling which components are being used while driving the motor. This is happening thousands of times per second, which greatly reduces the rate at which the ESC heats up. This results in significantly improved thermal performance during partial throttle operation where the majority of driving occurs. Your setup will be able to handle higher gear ratios, in heavier vehicles, with longer runs.
	When paired with a Castle 4-POLE 12-SLOT SENSORED MOTOR SmartSense™ software, enabled by default in the Castle Link Programming Suite, will use the motor’s sensors to provide smooth starts, excellent torque, and low-speed drivability. Once the motor is turning, it seamlessly transitions to Castle’s ULTRA-EFFICIENT sensorless mode with electric timing. Smooth sensored startups and high-efficiency sensorless running makes the Hydra XLX2 system produce more power and less heat. QUIETSENSE™ is an innovative advancement in the design of sensored motors to deliver the highest precision and most efficient startup.
	The Hydra XLX2 allows “on-the-fly” adjustments to be made through the AUX wire once enabled in Castle Link. Once you have selected an AUX wire function, that setting can then be tuned from your transmitter while driving. Torque control, max throttle, max brake and drag brake adjustments are a sampling of the available modes. This real-time tuning allows you to quickly and easily fine-tune your system. . Click here for additional information.
	Enabled by default, the Hydra XLX2 captures and records performance data from your vehicle. This allows you to view a detailed turn-by-turn record of what your ESC actually experienced during the run. You will be able to record real-time data such as motor RPM, battery current and voltage, ESC and motor temperature, throttle input, and more. Download and analyze the collected data via Castle Link and make adjustments to maximize both performance and battery life.
	For over 20 years Castle engineers have been setting the bar for industry leading software functionality. The Castle Link Programming Suite is your ticket to creating the perfect setup. To gain access to the host of tuning parameters, simply redeem the coupon for the Castle Link adapter included with your Hydra XLX2 purchase and download the simple to install software from our website and you are ready to personalize your controller's settings. You can now wirelessly program your ESC with the free Castle Link Mobile App and the purchase the B-Link Bluetooth Adapter. Click here for settings overview for the Hydra X 8S.
	You can now WIRELESSLY PROGRAM settings with the free Castle-Link app available on the Apple App store or Google Play for Android devices and the Castle B-Link™ Bluetooth™ Adapter (sold separately). It is compact and lightweight installed in your vehicle, for anytime programming!
	Hydra X 8S is telemetry ready, which means owners of Futaba 4PX, 7PX, 7PXR, and T10PX transmitters will be able to purchase the Castle Creations Telemetry Link for S.BUS2. Real-time data such as ESC temperature, voltages, and RPM can be monitored to ensure performance advantages and spare you the “unknown” parameters that all R/C enthusiasts experience at some point. Telemetry data provides another level of protection and can increase performance.
	Housed in a rugged CNC-machined aluminum case and then potted in waterproof epoxy. This not only protects the electronics but ensures any heat generated in the controller can easily be dissipated through the case.
	Hydra X 8S features Audible Alerts that will notify you via audible chimes of possible issues with calibrations and error conditions to help diagnose problems .
	The Hydra X 8S is proudly designed and manufactured in Olathe, Kansas USA and is backed by Castle Creations’ 1-year warranty and unparalleled "make-it-right" customer support. Call us, email us, or walk in our front door – we’re here to help. Click here for additional information about our Tier 1 and Tier II warranty.

Optional Accessories
011-0135-00	B-Link Bluetooth Adapter supports iOS and Android App
010-0152-00	Telemetry Link S.BUS
010-0079-00	Castle Link Quick Connect (or Quick Connect Duo)
011-0053-00	6.5mm Polarized Connectors-Male/Female Single Pk
011-0068-00	6.5mm Polarized Connectors-Male Multi-Pack
011-0069-00	Polarized Castle Connectors - 6.5mm Female Multi-Pack
CC BULLET 6.5MM	6.5mm Male/Female Connector Set (3ea)
CC BULLET 8.0MM	8.0mm Male/Female Connector Set (3ea)
011-0148-00	Castle Capacitor Pack, 8S MAX (35V)