The **SPARK Flex** is Team 2890's standard motor controller for NEO Vortex motors. It docks directly onto the NEO Vortex, eliminating external motor wires and creating an integrated motor-controller unit.
## Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value | Notes |
|-----------|-------|-------|
| Nominal Input Voltage | 12V | Standard FRC battery |
| Operating Voltage Range | 6–24V | |
| Absolute Maximum | 30V | Do not exceed |
| Continuous Output Current | 60A | Tested at 3 minutes |
| Peak Current (2s surge) | 100A | |
| Communication | CAN, PWM | |
| Data Port | USB Type-C | Configuration and control |
1. Install **REV Hardware Client** — required before using CAN interface
2. Dock SPARK Flex to NEO Vortex
3. Configure via Hardware Client
4. Update firmware if needed
**Important:** Configuration through Hardware Client is **required** before using CAN interface.
## Connection to Training
**For students:** The SPARK Flex is the "brain" that tells the motor how to move. Key concepts:
- **PWM vs CAN** — PWM is simple (1000μs = full reverse, 1500μs = neutral, 2000μs = full forward). CAN is smarter (digital, multi-device, richer feedback).
- **Current limiting** — the Flex can limit current to protect motors (60A continuous)
- **Closed-loop control** — velocity mode, position mode, and current mode each close a feedback loop
**Related training modules:**
- [[neo-vortex-motor]] — the motor this controls
- [[swerving-modules]] — MK4i modules that hold both
- [[motor-basics]] — understanding how controllers drive motors
Team 2890 uses SPARK Flex controllers docked to NEO Vortex motors in their MK4i swerve modules. The dock design is a significant reliability improvement — no bullet wires to come loose, no separate sensor cables. One compact unit per wheel.
