Hi, I am using Arduino for first time. I am using A4988 driver for my stepper motor. How can I damage my Driver or the stepper motor connected to it? Here are the few concerns I was thinking
If using 2 motors with A4988 driver one of then fully connected where as another A4988 driver VDD is connected to Arduino (5V) power supply and 24V VMOT motor supply. But motor is not connected to A4988, will it damage the driver if both power is on at all time and one motor is running?
If using 2 motors with A4988 driver one of then fully connected where as another A4988 driver VDD is disconnected to Arduino (5V) power supply and connected with 24V VMOT motor supply. Motor is connected to A4988 as well, will it damage the driver or motor while another motor is running?
Lastly besides set up the current limit for driver and common ground for driver with Arduino, what are other way to damage the A4988 driver or other parts? Thank you.
Welcome to the forum! It is wise to ask about motor wiring.
It does not damage the A4988 if a motor is not connected. However, attempting to change wiring while power is connected will instantly destroy it.
Do not use breadboards for motor leads, motor power supply connections, or other high current connections. The tracks will burn, leading to intermittent connections and destruction of the A4988 motor driver.
Finally, be sure to set the current limit correctly on the A4988. If you bought yours from Pololu, follow their instructions. If you bought a clone, you have to know what current sense resistor is used, in order to set the current limit correctly.
Thank you. So it does not matter how long the A4988 is connected with both power supply when it is not in use as long as not disconnected anything when the power is on.