This guide outlines the different types of footpad sensors available for VESC Onewheels.
DISCLAIMER: The VESC Bible is currently being republished and rewritten to encompass all necessary beginner guides. All guides with a beta tag are still preliminary and need to be vetted and reviewed by VESC experts.
Available Sensors
- Exile: A popular aftermarket sensor known for its reliability and sensitivity. Some users consider it the best, even compared to the Stoked Stock sensor. However, it is more expensive.
- Stoked Stock: Another widely used aftermarket sensor available in various versions (v3, v4, v5). It’s known for good performance, especially when using a metal backing plate for rigidity. Landsurf’s latest footpads incorporate the Stoked Stock sensor or a custom version.
- Stock Onewheel Sensor: This sensor is found in standard Onewheel models. While it can technically be used for VESC builds, it’s not ideal due to its limitations and potential for ghosting.
- Nexus Sensors: Mentioned as an alternative to the stock sensor. No further information on their specific characteristics is provided in the sources.
- Platysense: An aftermarket front footpad sensor offered by Landsurf. It requires purchasing a rear pad from an authorised seller to be eligible to buy the Platysense.
Pros and Cons of Each Sensor
Exile Sensor
Pros:
- Reliability: Considered very reliable.
- Sensitivity: Known for its sensitivity.
Cons:
- Cost: More expensive than Stoked Stock sensors.
Stoked Stock Sensor
Pros:
- Performance: Generally well-regarded for its performance.
- Versions: Multiple versions offer options for different preferences.
- Availability: Used in Landsurf footpads, increasing its availability.
Cons:
- Rigidity: Requires a metal backing plate for optimal rigidity.
Stock Onewheel Sensor
Pros:
- Cost-Effective: Readily available as a spare part for Onewheels.
Cons:
- Performance: May not perform as well as aftermarket options, potentially leading to ghosting or false starts.
- Not Ideal for VESC: Not recommended for VESC builds due to its limitations.
Nexus Sensors
The sources mention Nexus Sensors as an alternative, but no details on their pros and cons are provided.
Platysense Sensor
Pros:
- Front Footpad Specific: Designed specifically for the front footpad.
Cons:
- Purchase Restrictions: Only available after purchasing a rear pad from an authorised Landsurf seller.
Additional Considerations
- Dual Zone vs. Single Zone: Stoked Stock sensors can be configured as dual zone or single zone by cutting a connection on the sensor. Dual zone allows for heel lift dismounts, while single zone might help with unintended activations.
- Sensorless Operation: VESC controllers can operate in sensorless mode if the hall sensor fails. While not ideal, understanding sensorless setup options (like ADC faults and reverse stop) can be beneficial.
- Wiring: Wiring diagrams for different sensors and VESC controllers are available in the sources, highlighting the importance of proper connections.