Hello, my first project entails turning on a computer fan when temperatures get below a certain level. I started by trying to get the computer fan to run when connected directly to a 9v battery as I have seen it done on several YouTube videos. The following video shows that the fan never really starts to run, it just seems to twitch. The fan is rated for DC 5v and 0.4 amps. I don't need the fan to run at maximum capacity just need it to run constantly. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Here is a link to a video showing the behavior - 9v battery and computer fan - Album on Imgur
Post your schematic.
Post your code
A 9V smoke alarm battery does not have the current capability to power a motor. You need a better power supply.
4 AA cell battery pack would be a good choice. To control the fan with an Arduino, you will need a driver (as well as a power supply). Choose the MOSFET based on motor rated voltage and stall current. Rated voltage and stall current specs should be in the motor data sheet.
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Great I will look into these. Quick question, when you say that I need a driver what are you referring to?
A driver is a device between the Arduino and the motor that can switch power to the motor under control of the Arduino. I posted the schematic for a driver based on a MOSFET. That is good to control the motor, in one direction of rotation, on and off or control motor speed using PWM. MOSFET is good for fans and pumps or any motor that does not need to reverse.
For a motor that must be reversable, you need a H bridge driver. Then you can control forward, reverse and speed.
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