We didn't use a seperate link on Coyote, all all runs from the same one. The only reason you would need one is if you were using 2 different voltages for the weapon and drive, or you could put one in there for a bit of extra safety if you want. We used a big 8Ah Optipower flight pack. It has used all sorts for jaw control, but it would depend on your current draw from the LinAcs.

The actuators were as they came, much easier that way but a brushless mod could be done but as the above comments have said that adds a whole new level of complexity, they were fairly quick though as it was and they were never really meant to crush anything, it was for control.

Hydraulics would add a whole new level of complexity to the design compared to LinAcs but it would have more force generally speaking. It's definitely possible to do it without, something like Little Nipper doesn't use hydraulics which is in the middle design wise between KO and Draven.