What is Brushless DC Motor (BLDC) and How to Control it with Arduino

This project implements closed-loop or open-loop speed control of a Brushless DC (BLDC) motor using an Arduino Uno and an Electronic Speed Controller (ESC). Unlike brushed DC motors, a BLDC motor requires precise, timed commutation of its stator windings to rotate. Because an Arduino cannot directly supply the high currents and multi-phase switching required, the 20A ESC acts as the essential power intermediary. The system begins with a potentiometer connected to an analog input pin on the Arduino Uno. As the user adjusts the potentiometer, the Arduino reads the analog voltage and translates it into a corresponding Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) signal, typically structured as standard servo-style pulses ranging from 1.0ms to 2.0ms. This control signal is sent from a digital pin on the Arduino to the signal input of the ESC. Powered separately by a 12V 20A power source or Li-Po battery, the ESC interprets the incoming Arduino PWM pulse width to determine the desired throttle level. It then sequentially switches high current across the three motor phases of the A2212/13T BLDC motor, generating a rotating magnetic field that drives the rotor. By varying the potentiometer position, the operator dynamically alters the pulse width, instructing the ESC to speed up or slow down the motor smoothly.