New to RC?

This glossary should provide a solid foundation for understanding common RC car terms. Keep in mind that the RC community often uses abbreviations, so becoming familiar with those can also be beneficial.

  1. Chassis:

    • Definition: The main structural frame of the RC car that holds all components together.

  2. ESC (Electronic Speed Controller):

    • Definition: A device that regulates the speed of the electric motor in an RC car.

  3. Brushless Motor:

    • Definition: An electric motor without brushes, providing higher efficiency and power compared to brushed motors.

  4. LiPo (Lithium Polymer) Battery:

    • Definition: A rechargeable battery commonly used in RC cars for its high energy density and lightweight design.

  5. NiMH (Nickel-Metal Hydride) Battery:

    • Definition: A rechargeable battery used in RC cars as an alternative to LiPo, known for its stability and lower cost.

  6. Servo:

    • Definition: A device that controls the steering of an RC car, converting electrical signals into mechanical movement.

  7. Transmitter (Tx):

    • Definition: The hand-held controller that sends signals to the RC car, controlling its speed, steering, and other functions.

  8. Receiver (Rx):

    • Definition: The device installed in the RC car that receives signals from the transmitter and interprets them to control various functions.

  9. RTR (Ready-to-Run):

    • Definition: An RC car that comes fully assembled and includes everything needed to run, except for batteries.

  10. Kit:

    • Definition: An RC car package that requires assembly, allowing users to build the car from scratch.

  11. ESC Programming:

    • Definition: Adjusting the settings on the electronic speed controller to customize the performance of the RC car.

  12. Suspension:

    • Definition: The system of springs, shocks, and linkages that allows the RC car to absorb shocks and maintain traction.

  13. Differential:

    • Definition: A device that allows wheels on the same axle to rotate at different speeds, aiding in smoother turns.

  14. Camber:

    • Definition: The angle of the wheels concerning the vertical axis, influencing the contact area with the ground.

  15. Toe:

    • Definition: The angle of the wheels concerning the longitudinal axis, affecting the stability and handling of the RC car.

  16. Bash:

    • Definition: Aggressive and high-impact driving style, often associated with off-road RC car use.

  17. Crawling:

    • Definition: Slow and precise driving style, typically on challenging, uneven terrain.

  18. Hop-Up Parts:

    • Definition: Aftermarket upgrades or replacement parts designed to enhance the performance or appearance of an RC car.

  19. Scale:

    • Definition: The ratio of the RC car's size to the real-world vehicle it models.

  20. BEC (Battery Eliminator Circuit):

    • Definition: A circuit that regulates voltage to power the receiver and servo directly from the main battery, eliminating the need for a separate receiver battery.

Common Batteries