A Controller

A rocket launch controller is a switched electrical system that delivers an electric current to ignite a rocket motor. We do not light rocket motors with burning fuses (like on a bottle rocket). We use an e-match or igniter, that generates a small burst of hot gas when energized. Inserted into a rocket motor, the igniter will light the fuel inside that motor when an electrical current is applied.

Rocket Launch Controllers use low voltage direct current (DC) power sources, typically 12vdc. It is desirable to locate the power source (battery) as close to the action as possible. Running launch current through a long wire reduces power due to the resistance of the wire. Our launch controllers use relays, which use a small signal from the Console to switch the large load between battery and rocket. The result of this design is a reliable system for igniting rocket motors.