Using an Arduino to control linear actuators with Hall sensors

Hello everyone,

I am working on a project right now for school and had a few questions regarding parts I need. I am trying to control 2 linear actuators with hall sensors and an Arduino. I have found a guide online for doing this

, but am unsure if it is necessary to purchase a MegatMoto control shield in order to get it done. The actuators I am planning on purchasing are these

https://www.amazon.com/Zoom-Industrial-Linear-Actuator-Stroke/dp/B0713YWQQ1/ref=lp_350654011_1_4?s=industrial&ie=UTF8&qid=1509608288&sr=1-4

Is it necessary for me to use a motor control shield or can I just wire relays to the linear actuators and my power source (12V battery), and then wire the hall sensors in the actuators directly to the Arduino? I'm on a budget so if I can get away with just using relays I would rather do that, but what are the benefits to using a motor control shield?

Let me know if there is any other information I need to include and I appreciate any help.

drostja:
Hello everyone,

I am working on a project right now for school and had a few questions regarding parts I need. I am trying to control 2 linear actuators with hall sensors and an Arduino. I have found a guide online for doing this

http://www.instructables.com/id/Hall-Effect-Sensors-1-Position-Control/

, but am unsure if it is necessary to purchase a MegatMoto control shield in order to get it done. The actuators I am planning on purchasing are these

https://www.amazon.com/Zoom-Industrial-Linear-Actuator-Stroke/dp/B0713YWQQ1/ref=lp_350654011_1_4?s=industrial&ie=UTF8&qid=1509608288&sr=1-4

Is it necessary for me to use a motor control shield or can I just wire relays to the linear actuators and my power source (12V battery), and then wire the hall sensors in the actuators directly to the Arduino? I'm on a budget so if I can get away with just using relays I would rather do that, but what are the benefits to using a motor control shield?

Let me know if there is any other information I need to include and I appreciate any help.

Start by telling us what you mean by control. on-off, or back and forth or go to a position and stop, or go to a position and return, or go as far as possible and continue to try to move further?

What are the Hall sensors supposed to do?

The benefits of a motor control shield is it doesn't wear out or make clicking noise. It responds much quicker.

Paul