Overview
The KB Electronics KBIC full-wave DC motor speed control is designed for applications demanding excellent performance, high reliability and low cost. Although compact in size at just 4.30 x 3.64 x 1.25 inches, the KBIC offers better than 2% regulation over a 50:1 speed range and is suited to shunt wound, permanent magnet and AC/DC motors.
The range spans six models: the KBIC-120 and KBIC-125 operate on 115 VAC, the KBIC-240 and KBIC-225 operate on 230 VAC, and the KBIC-240D and KBIC-240DS are dual voltage models capable of running on both 115 and 230 VAC. The KBIC-240D provides 0-90 and 0-180 VDC output, while the KBIC-240DS provides 0-90 VDC output. Maximum horsepower ranges from 1/100 HP on the smallest 115 VAC model through to 3 HP on the KBIC-225 when fitted with the optional Auxiliary Heatsink.
Key Features
The KBIC is fabricated with components proven for reliability, including MOV transient protection to protect the power bridge, and uses integrated circuitry for a non-complicated design with superior load and line voltage regulation. Electronic current limiting (CL) protects the motor and control against overloads by limiting the maximum level of output current, and an adjustable acceleration start (0.5 to 4 seconds) provides a smooth start each time AC power is applied.
A unique feature of the KBIC is the Plug-in Horsepower Resistor, which eliminates the need to recalibrate IR Comp and Current Limit when the control is used on motors of different horsepower. The output of the control is a linear function of potentiometer rotation, and the KBIC can also be operated in a voltage following mode by supplying an isolated analog signal (0-9 VDC) to the input terminals P2 (+) and F-.
The Inhibit circuit (terminals I1 and I2) electronically disconnects the armature output voltage, while the Auto Inhibit feature prevents false starts and high surge currents when cycling the KBIC control with the AC line. Controls are terminated as standard with Q-D terminals, and a Barrier Terminal Accessory Kit incorporating both line and armature fuses is available.
Accessories
The optional Auxiliary Heatsink (P/N 9861) extends the rating of the basic control and doubles the horsepower rating of each model. Other available accessories include the Barrier Terminal Accessory Kit (P/N 9863), the AC Line & Armature Fuse Kit (P/N 9849), and the Dial Plate & Knob Kit (P/N 9832). A 5K remote potentiometer, mounting hardware and operating instructions are included with the control as standard.
As with other KB DC controls, the correct Plug-in Horsepower Resistor must be selected to match the connected motor’s horsepower and armature voltage range. CE compliance additionally requires the KBRF-200A RFI filter.
Common Applications
The KBIC is used across a wide range of industrial applications, including conveyors, packaging machines, feeders, welding positioners, pumps, machine tools, exercise equipment, and screening and printing equipment, wherever compact and reliable variable speed DC motor control is required.
Selection Considerations
Selecting the correct KBIC model starts with confirming the available AC supply voltage and whether dual voltage operation is required (KBIC-240D or KBIC-240DS). From there, the motor’s horsepower and rated current determine whether a standard model is sufficient or whether the optional Auxiliary Heatsink is needed to achieve the required power rating. The correct Plug-in Horsepower Resistor must then be selected based on the motor’s horsepower and armature voltage range.
Motordrives Australia can help confirm the right KBIC model, Plug-in Horsepower Resistor and any required accessories based on your motor’s horsepower, voltage and current rating.
Support And Enquiries
Motordrives Australia supplies and supports the KB Electronics KBIC range for Australian machine builders and maintenance teams. For assistance with model selection, horsepower resistor matching or accessory selection, contact our team with your motor’s horsepower, voltage and current rating.





