Robin2:
The DRV8825 is probably going to struggle with a 1.7 amp motor - you may need a heat sink and a cooling fan.A motor that draws 1.7 amps per coil won't be long depleting some AA batteries. Stepper motors are very inefficient and not suited to battery power - unless you have something the size of a car battery.
...R
I have a heat sink on the DRV8825, and it seems to be staying at a relatively cool temperature while running. Do you have any recommendations on a different power source? We aren't allowed to use a car battery or an outlet.