In the world of RC modeling, servo performance is paramount, particularly concerning accuracy and centering precision. Recently, a comparative test was conducted to evaluate the performance of various servos, bringing to light some interesting observations about Hitec Servos in comparison to others. This analysis delves into the findings, focusing on the centering capabilities and accuracy of a specific Hitec servo model as observed during these rigorous tests.
The testing methodology involved direct connection to the receiver, eliminating potential interference from extensions. A standardized 9-inch skewer was employed as a lever arm across all servo tests to measure responsiveness and centering deviations. Interestingly, amidst a lineup of nine servos tested on the same day under identical conditions, a particular Hitec servo, along with one other unspecified brand, exhibited noticeable “hunting” issues around the center point. This “hunting” refers to the servo’s tendency to oscillate or search for its center position even under no load, indicating potential instability or overcorrection within its internal circuitry.
This observation is particularly noteworthy as it contrasts with the generally held perception of Hitec servos, especially models like the HS-7955TG, which are known for their robust performance and reliability. The tester, having extensive experience with thousands of HS-7955TG servos operating at High Voltage (HV), explicitly stated that these servos typically do not exhibit such center-hunting behavior when unloaded. This discrepancy raises questions about potential variations within Hitec’s product range or perhaps specific conditions that might exacerbate this behavior in certain models.
Further comparison revealed that the Futaba BLS172 servo stood out as a top performer in terms of both accuracy and strength relative to its specified torque rating. In fact, the Futaba BLS172 seemingly exceeded its published performance metrics, suggesting a degree of understatement in its official specifications. This positive performance benchmark from Futaba provides a valuable point of comparison against the observed behavior of the Hitec servo in the test.
Addressing an initial query regarding lever length and its impact on perceived movement, it was clarified that while a longer lever arm can indeed amplify minor servo movements, the observed “hunting” was not merely an artifact of lever length. The tester highlighted that the accuracy achieved using a 3-position switch for predetermined sweeps proved to be more consistent than potentiometer-based controls, which are susceptible to drift even in high-quality carbon or Hall effect variants. This methodological detail underscores the rigor applied in isolating servo performance from external control inaccuracies.
In conclusion, while this specific test revealed unexpected centering behavior in one Hitec servo sample, it is crucial to contextualize this within a broader understanding of servo performance. The robust reputation of Hitec servos, particularly models like the HS-7955TG, remains largely unchallenged. However, these findings serve as a valuable reminder of the importance of thorough testing and comparative analysis in evaluating component performance within the demanding field of RC modeling. The superior performance of the Futaba BLS172 in this test also highlights the competitive landscape and the varying strengths of different servo manufacturers. Further investigation and testing across a wider range of Hitec servo models would be beneficial to gain a more comprehensive understanding of their centering accuracy and overall performance characteristics.
