Hi all, I'm trying to figure out how to use an arduino to drive a 12v 8-9A linear actuator to move a somewhat heavy object (30lbs) back and forth. Can someone help me determine which components I need?
After some reading, I think I need at least one MOSFET transistor to get 12V output. Do I need a cooling solution or any other components?
Here's the actuator: Amazon.com
Thanks for your help!!
Suggest you use two SPDT relays as below.
The start/stall current of the actuator is typically 5-10X that of the unloaded running current, and neither are stated in the product description. A responsible seller will report both specs. Switches, relays or motor drivers must be able to handle that peak current.
Take this seller's recommendation with a large dose of salt, and note the buyer complaints about stripped nylon gears.
Notice: We recommend using our product with a power supply with DC 12V output voltage and 8-9A output current.
Thanks so much, Larry!
Seems like these should work, right? Amazon.com
I've only completed a couple of entry-level arduino projects and unfortunately do not yet know how to read the diagram you shared. Can you point me to any kind of guide or additional resources that would help me better understand either the diagram or the typical "two SPDT relays" process?
I also see that a reviewer recommends an Arduino Mega 2560 since it accepts 12V in. Would you agree?
It is not a good idea to power any Arduino from 12V. The on board regulator is inefficient and may overheat and shut down. Furthermore, motors introduce electrical noise into the power supply that can destroy regulators or cause the Arduino to malfunction.
If you want to use the 12V motor power supply for the Arduino, buy a separate 5V buck regulator (capable of tolerating input voltages of 20V or higher) to power the Arduino via the 5V pin. Pololu has a good selection.
Thank you for the advice, jremington!
That relay board might be made to work, however, we really need to see its schematic before we can say 100%.
Basically, when one of the relays is energized and the other is not, the motor turns in one direction.
When the motor reaches a limit you select with the placement of the limit switch, the motor will stop.
When the relays are both de-energized the motor can be stopped at any point.
Likewise, when the state of the two relays are swapped, the motor reverses and the other limit switch will stop the motor at its position.
EDIT, reading schematics:
https://learn.sparkfun.com/tutorials/how-to-read-a-schematic/all
Hi Larry,
Can you tell me where the ardunio is sitting, in the schematic you previously shared?
Thank you, Larry!
jremington, just a few more questions if you would be so kind.
First, the official Arduino site says that the recommended input voltage is 7 to 12V. Do you not trust their recommendation?
Second, why would my buck regulator need to tolerate 20V or higher? Isn't my 12V power input only capable of delivering a max of 12V?
Third, I see that the Uno needs a minimum of 7V input in order to maintain 5V output through the 5V output pin. So if I buy a 12V-to-7V buck regulator, would I basically just split my 12V power supply into two forks, one +/- fork going to the buck regulator to power the Arduino, then the other +/- fork going to the DC motor (i.e. the H bridge motor driver, specifically)?
I know I can use two separate power sources for the project - one for the Arduino and one for the DC motor - but I'd love to collapse them into one, if possible (and not dangerous).
Thanks again to you both!!
It is never a good idea to operate equipment at the manufacturer's absolute maximum rated condition. And, if you browse through the forum, you learn that many people have had problems trying to do just that.
Second, why would my buck regulator need to tolerate 20V or higher? Isn't my 12V power input only capable of delivering a max of 12V?
Motors introduce high voltage spikes into the power supply. The buck regulator must be able to tolerate them or it will be destroyed.
Third, I see that the Uno needs a minimum of 7V input in order to maintain 5V output through the 5V output pin
There is no reason to use the on board regulator at all. Use a 5V buck converter and power the Arduino through the 5V pin. That also increases the efficiency and reliability of the entire project.
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