Tuesday October 14, 2003

TOP GUN!

The Professor Motor 2056 Controller

Most of you already know the quality and advantage the Professor Motor line of controllers can bring to your racing. However, recently after choosing the base model controller I decided to upgrade to one with a few more features to see just how much of a difference it would really be.

So what are the differences and why did I need them?

The first major difference is the adjustable sensitivity this model provides. This controller can be used over a very broad range of models including HO scale as well as 1/32nd scale stock and 1/32nd scale modified cars using higher performance motors. Non-magnet racing has been becoming an increasingly important part of my home racing and I wanted even more precision and it also allows me to fine tune my magnet cars as well...so to be quite honest I just got spoiled. My interest in HO scale was also a major factor in upgrading to this controller, so if you are racing both scales then this just might be the controller you need.

These adjustments are made from the knobs on the top of the controller. These knobs can either be left in the fully seated position or you can back them out slightly, hence adjusting the overall sensitivity. With around 40,000 combinations to choose from, it certainly makes this controller almost perfect for any slot car found today. To activate the variable sensitivity system turn the knobs until bottoming out, but be careful not to over tighten them, just snug them down. The Professor Suggested Use: Make sure all the knobs are backed away from the "bottomed" position, start by turning in the front one (nose of controller) until bottomed & continue left to right until suitable sensitivity is achieved.  To deactivate the variable sensitivity "switches" back off the knobs from the bottomed position only ½ to ¾ turn (excessive loosening can cause the knobs to fall off).

A couple other features of this Silver Series controller is the use of extra long 13 gage high temperature silicone leads and a polarity switch that allows you to utilize this controller for a variety of tracks with different wiring. To be honest the good Professor has done most of my work for me in regards to information and operational characteristics, so read more about it here. I like this polarity feature as I am beginning to travel around a lot more visiting new friends in this hobby, and having a more flexible controller will come in handy. Being dual polarity this controller is right at home on either a negative polarity or positive polarity commercial track.

So how do you hook them up? Well to be honest the easiest way for Carrera owners who strictly race with that system is to just go for the #2063 that is a direct hook-up to the original power base. I could have done this as well, however as I stated earlier I wanted more flexibility for other track systems. Professor Motor makes a Carrera home set adapter harness that allows hook-up to be just as easy, yet allows you to keep the original alligator clip ends for other track configurations.

Now granted, some of you won't need all the "bells and whistles" that some of these advanced controllers provide. However, for those who want maximum control, you might want to take a closer look at this controller as well as the rest of the higher end line offered. Some enthusiasts out there are very particular in their hobby, and they want the best they can afford. From advanced lap timing systems to upgraded power supplies, it just makes sense to include a quality controller and this model clearly delivers where it counts.

- Harry

As always feel free to contact me about this article or just the hobby in general at harry@homeracingworld.com, or better yet drop into our Message Forum and share your thoughts with other enthusiasts!

Thanks go to Professor Motor for providing me with this controller.

Make sure you check the website often for all the latest in their controller line.