Product Details
In a robotics project, getting a motor to spin is just the start. You'll soon find that motors can vary in speed, even with the same part number, due to voltage, environment, and manufacturing differences. So, figuring out the motor's speed is the next crucial step. The easiest way to begin is by adding an encoder wheel and an optical or magnetic counter. As the motor turns, the encoder wheel spins, and the counter detects each spoke, allowing your microcontroller to calculate the speed. If you want to know the direction too, just add a second counter. Worry about the wiring? This motor is a great solution! It comes with a magnetic wheel and two pre - attached hall effect sensors. It's a small, 'standard' N20 sized motor that's super easy to use. Supply 4.5 to 6V DC (nominal) to the white and red wires, which connect to your motor driver. You can use PWM and an H - bridge for speed adjustment and direction control. Connect the black wire to your microcontroller's ground pin, and the blue wire to 3 - 5V DC (either voltage works well). Then read the hall effect outputs on the yellow and green wires. We have an Arduino example sketch that can be adapted to other languages. Simply interrupt on one of the encoder pins, count the time since the last interrupt, and multiply by 14 - counts - per - revolution and the gear ratio. This DC motor has a 1:100 gear ratio, uses 6V nominal power, and draws about 100mA (200mA when stalled). The gear ratio affects torque and RPM but not the current draw. Check out the no - load/rated/stall current, RPM, and torque for different ratios below.
Using this motor is a piece of cake. First, connect the white and red wires to your motor driver and supply 4.5 to 6V DC. You can adjust the speed and direction with PWM and an H - bridge. Then, connect the black wire to your microcontroller's ground pin and the blue wire to 3 - 5V DC. Read the hall effect outputs from the yellow and green wires. For programming, use our Arduino example sketch as a base and adapt it to your preferred language. When using, make sure to keep the power supply within the specified range. The motor draws about 100mA under normal operation and 200mA when stalled. Don't exceed the rated voltage to avoid damaging the motor. As for maintenance, keep the motor clean and free from dust. Check the connections regularly to ensure they are secure.
