Electric Lifter Weapon Control

[Shrapnel XV8]

Hi, I'm currently in the process of making a 12V electric lifter type weapon, which uses a linear actuator, and wanted to ask what can I use to control it? I've read that I can either use an ESC or a relay/battle switch combo or something. Can anyone recommend what sort of battle switch and relay I would need for this? (one that's not too expensive)

This is all new to me and I wanted to ask advice before I went and bought anything.

Thanks.

[Eventorizon]

Going with relays is one option, though the wiring can be tricky and if one relay fails the whole system goes down.

It would be easier to use a normal bi-direction ESC for RC cars.

Some examples are the Botbitz TZ85A ESC, Electronize FR30HX and Victor 883. However these are very high ampage and high voltage so you just need to find something a little less over powered.

Though if it was me I would used a TZ85A as it would last pretty much forever and you would never have to worry about breaking it.

[plargen]

i used a blue 50a speed controller in mine origination, with a 12v car seat actuator over volted to 14.4v and it ran fine and could pick up 24+ kg but ive change to servo and two micro switches (i think its known as a bang bang controller) only changed it because i changed my transmitter to a pistol grip version and the 3rd channel doesn't work with speed controllers

these are the 50a esc
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Marine-50A-Sp ... 35c3fbd852

at the moment im using a these or a similar version to run both my robots and they drive them round quite well so should do as another option for and actuator
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/High-Voltage- ... 20cffabd44