Using Multiple Shields

Other Hardware Robotics
1

So I have only just dived into robotics using Arduinos and my current project uses an Arduino Due to control a motor. I also need the Due to be hooked up to an XBee but it does not look like I can use both of the shields for the motor and the XBee together.

In short, is it possible to connect my motor and XBee to my Due using the given shields:

Motor shield: Adafruit Motor/Stepper/Servo Shield for Arduino v2 Kit [v2.3] : ID 1438 : $19.95 : Adafruit Industries, Unique & fun DIY electronics and kits
XBee shield: SparkFun XBee Explorer Regulated - WRL-11373 - SparkFun Electronics

2

The XBee "shield" that you linked to is NOT a shield.

You can use the motor shield and the XBee breakout board at the same time.

3

Okay so my problem is that there is only one 5V connection on the due and the motor shield is using that. Is there some way that I could use the 3.3V connection on the motor shield?

4

Okay so my problem is that there is only one 5V connection on the due and the motor shield is using that.

Like the wiring system in your house, you CAN connect multiple things to the 5V connection.

Is there some way that I could use the 3.3V connection on the motor shield?

For what? Do you need 3.3V or 5V? For what?

5

Hello there!

Yes you can indeed connect multiple things to the same 5V supply. Below is a picture showing the backside of your motor shield. I have labelled where the 5V pin is located. If you look closely, you will see a large blue line connecting the labelled 5V pin to two other pins with a red arrow. That line is called a trace, and means that the three points are connected together.

Shield5V.png

Shield5V.png