Before diving into pinouts and timing diagrams, here are the headline specifications that define the ES08MA II. Note that "II" denotes the second generation, which features improved potentiometer linearity and a more robust control IC compared to the original ES08MA.
| Parameter | Value | |-----------|-------| | Model | Emax ES08MA II | | Type | Micro Analog Servo | | Gear Material | Metal (Brass & Aluminum combination) | | Weight | 12.5g ± 0.2g | | Dimensions | 23 x 12.2 x 24 mm (0.91 x 0.48 x 0.94 in) | | Operating Voltage | 4.8V to 6.0V (6.0V recommended for max torque) | | Stall Torque (4.8V) | 1.6 kg·cm (22.2 oz·in) | | Stall Torque (6.0V) | 2.0 kg·cm (27.7 oz·in) | | Operating Speed (4.8V) | 0.12 sec/60° | | Operating Speed (6.0V) | 0.10 sec/60° | | Dead Band Width | ≤5 μs | | Temperature Range | -20°C to +60°C | | Connector Type | JR (Futaba compatible – 3-pin 0.1” spacing) | | Wire Length | 250 mm ±10 mm |
Critical Upgrade from ES08MA I: The "II" version uses a dual-ball bearing system on the output shaft, drastically reducing gear backlash and play over time.
The Emax ES08MA II is a第二代 (2nd Generation) analog micro servo. It is an upgraded version of the popular ES08A, featuring a metal gear train for increased durability and torque transmission. It is widely used in small to medium RC models (airplanes, helicopters, cars, robots) and lightweight industrial projects.
Key distinguishing feature: Full metal gears (aluminum alloy) replacing the nylon gears of the standard ES08A, providing higher crash resistance and precision.
The wiring standard is consistent with the datasheet’s pinout diagram:
| Wire Color | Function | Connection | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Brown / Black | Ground (GND) | Connect to system ground (0V) | | Red | Power (VCC) | +4.8V to +6.0V DC | | Orange / Yellow | Signal (PWM) | 50Hz PWM (20ms period) |
The Emax ES08MA II is an upgraded version of the popular ES08MA analog micro servo. It is distinguished by its metal gear train and carbon-brush motor, offering a balance of torque, speed, and durability for its size. This "II" revision typically features improved potentiometer stability and slightly refined tolerances over the original. It is widely used in micro RC aircraft (e.g., 250-450 size helicopters, foamies), lightweight robotics (walking robots, robotic arms), and small-scale DIY projects.
Why choose this servo over other popular micro servos?
| Feature | Emax ES08MA II | TowerPro SG90 | Hitec HS-65MG | Emax ES08A (Nylon) | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Gears | Metal | Nylon | Metal | Nylon | | Torque (6V) | 1.8 kg-cm | 1.2 kg-cm | 1.9 kg-cm | 1.5 kg-cm | | Speed (6V) | 0.10 sec | 0.10 sec | 0.11 sec | 0.09 sec | | Weight | 13.4g | 9g | 12g | 13g | | Price | $5 - $8 | $2 - $4 | $25 - $30 | $4 - $6 | | Best For | Durability/value | Cheap prototypes | Precision RC | Lightweight planes |
Verdict: The ES08MA II occupies the "sweet spot." It is significantly more durable than the SG90 (which strips easily), but 1/4th the price of the Hitec HS-65MG. For hobbyists on a budget who need metal gears, this is the default choice.
| Parameter | Value | | :--- | :--- | | Dimensions (L x W x H) | 23.0 x 12.0 x 24.5 mm (0.91 x 0.47 x 0.96 in) | | Weight | 12 g (0.42 oz) including 150mm wire and connector | | Horn/Gear Type | Metal gears (3-pole ferrite motor) | | Case Material | Engineering plastic (Nylon + FRP) | | Connector | JR/Futaba universal (standard 3-pin 1.5mm pitch) | | Wire Gauge | 28 AWG, 150 mm length |
Not recommended for: Continuous rotation applications (this is a positional servo), high-vibration engines, or sub-zero outdoor use without preheating.