How to Use MG90S: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The MG90S is a micro servo motor manufactured by Tower Pro, renowned for its compact size, lightweight design, and high performance. It is widely used in robotics, remote-controlled devices, and other applications requiring precise mechanical movement. The MG90S features a 180-degree range of motion and is equipped with metal gears, ensuring durability and reliability under load.

• Robotics (e.g., robotic arms, grippers)
• Remote-controlled vehicles (e.g., cars, boats, planes)
• Automated systems (e.g., pan-tilt camera mounts)
• Educational projects and prototyping
• Hobbyist projects requiring small, precise actuators

The MG90S micro servo motor is designed to deliver high torque and precision in a small form factor. Below are its key technical details:

The MG90S has a 3-pin connector for interfacing with control systems. The pinout is as follows:

The MG90S is controlled using Pulse Width Modulation (PWM), where the width of the pulse determines the servo's position within its 180-degree range. Below are the steps to use the MG90S in a circuit:

1. Power Supply: Connect the red wire to a 5V power source (e.g., Arduino 5V pin or external power supply). Ensure the power source can supply sufficient current (at least 500 mA per servo).
2. Ground: Connect the brown wire to the ground (GND) of the power source.
3. Signal: Connect the orange wire to a PWM-capable pin on your microcontroller (e.g., Arduino pin 9).

Below is an example of how to control the MG90S using an Arduino UNO:

#include <Servo.h> // Include the Servo library

Servo myServo; // Create a Servo object to control the MG90S

void setup() {
  myServo.attach(9); // Attach the servo to pin 9
}

void loop() {
  myServo.write(0); // Move the servo to 0 degrees
  delay(1000);      // Wait for 1 second

  myServo.write(90); // Move the servo to 90 degrees
  delay(1000);       // Wait for 1 second

  myServo.write(180); // Move the servo to 180 degrees
  delay(1000);        // Wait for 1 second
}

• Power Supply: Avoid powering the servo directly from the Arduino if multiple servos are used or if the servo operates under heavy load. Use an external power supply instead.
• PWM Signal: Ensure the PWM signal is within the servo's operating range (typically 500 µs to 2500 µs pulse width).
• Mechanical Limits: Do not force the servo beyond its 0° to 180° range to prevent damage to the gears.

1. Servo Not Moving

   • Cause: Incorrect wiring or insufficient power supply.
   • Solution: Double-check the wiring and ensure the power supply provides adequate current.

2. Servo Jittering

   • Cause: Electrical noise or unstable power supply.
   • Solution: Add a decoupling capacitor (e.g., 100 µF) across the power and ground lines near the servo.

3. Servo Overheating

   • Cause: Prolonged operation under heavy load or insufficient cooling.
   • Solution: Reduce the load or allow the servo to cool down periodically.

4. Servo Not Reaching Full Range

   • Cause: Incorrect PWM signal or mechanical obstruction.
   • Solution: Verify the PWM signal range and ensure there are no physical obstructions.

Q: Can the MG90S be powered directly from an Arduino?
A: While it is possible to power a single MG90S from the Arduino's 5V pin, it is not recommended for multiple servos or high-load applications. Use an external power supply for better performance.

Q: What is the maximum current draw of the MG90S?
A: The MG90S can draw up to 700 mA under stall conditions. Ensure your power supply can handle this current.

Q: Can the MG90S rotate continuously?
A: No, the MG90S is a standard servo with a 0° to 180° range. For continuous rotation, use a continuous rotation servo.

Q: How do I extend the servo's lifespan?
A: Avoid overloading the servo, operate it within its specified voltage range, and ensure proper cooling during extended use.