How to Use Phidgets Motor Control : Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The Phidgets Motor Control (Part ID: 1-Motor) is a versatile interface designed for controlling DC motors. It allows for precise speed and direction control, making it an essential component in robotics, automation, and other motor-driven projects. This motor controller is ideal for applications requiring smooth motor operation, such as conveyor systems, robotic arms, and automated vehicles.

With its user-friendly interface and robust design, the Phidgets Motor Control is suitable for both beginners and experienced engineers. It can be easily integrated into microcontroller-based systems, including Arduino, Raspberry Pi, and other development platforms.

Below are the key technical details of the Phidgets Motor Control:

• Manufacturer: Phidgets
• Part ID: 1-Motor
• Input Voltage Range: 6V to 15V DC
• Maximum Continuous Current: 4A
• Peak Current: 5A (for short durations)
• Control Interface: USB or GPIO
• Motor Type Supported: Brushed DC motors
• Direction Control: Forward and reverse
• Speed Control: PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) with 0% to 100% duty cycle
• Operating Temperature: -20°C to 50°C

The Phidgets Motor Control has the following pin configuration:

1. Power Supply: Connect a DC power supply (6V to 15V) to the V+ and GND pins. Ensure the power supply can provide sufficient current for your motor.
2. Motor Connection: Connect the motor terminals to the M+ and M- pins. Ensure the motor is a brushed DC motor compatible with the controller.
3. Control Signals:
   • Use the DIR pin to control the motor's direction. Set it HIGH for forward and LOW for reverse.
   • Use the PWM pin to control the motor's speed. Provide a PWM signal with a duty cycle between 0% (stopped) and 100% (full speed).
4. USB Control: Optionally, connect the USB interface to a PC for software-based control using the Phidgets API.

• Heat Dissipation: The controller may heat up during operation. Ensure proper ventilation or use a heatsink if necessary.
• Current Limiting: Avoid exceeding the maximum continuous current rating (4A) to prevent damage.
• Signal Quality: Use a clean and stable PWM signal for precise speed control.
• Polarity: Double-check the polarity of the power supply and motor connections to avoid damage.

Below is an example of how to control the Phidgets Motor Control using an Arduino UNO:

// Define pin connections
const int dirPin = 7;  // Direction control pin
const int pwmPin = 6;  // PWM speed control pin

void setup() {
  // Set pin modes
  pinMode(dirPin, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(pwmPin, OUTPUT);
}

void loop() {
  // Set motor direction to forward
  digitalWrite(dirPin, HIGH);

  // Gradually increase motor speed
  for (int speed = 0; speed <= 255; speed++) {
    analogWrite(pwmPin, speed);  // Send PWM signal to control speed
    delay(20);                   // Wait for 20ms
  }

  // Hold at full speed for 2 seconds
  delay(2000);

  // Gradually decrease motor speed
  for (int speed = 255; speed >= 0; speed--) {
    analogWrite(pwmPin, speed);  // Decrease PWM signal
    delay(20);                   // Wait for 20ms
  }

  // Set motor direction to reverse
  digitalWrite(dirPin, LOW);

  // Repeat the same speed ramp-up and ramp-down process
  for (int speed = 0; speed <= 255; speed++) {
    analogWrite(pwmPin, speed);
    delay(20);
  }
  delay(2000);
  for (int speed = 255; speed >= 0; speed--) {
    analogWrite(pwmPin, speed);
    delay(20);
  }
}

1. Motor Not Running:

   • Cause: Incorrect power supply or loose connections.
   • Solution: Verify the power supply voltage and current. Check all connections.

2. Motor Running in the Wrong Direction:

   • Cause: Incorrect DIR pin signal or reversed motor connections.
   • Solution: Check the DIR pin signal. Swap the motor connections if necessary.

3. Motor Speed Not Changing:

   • Cause: PWM signal not being sent or incorrect duty cycle.
   • Solution: Verify the PWM signal using an oscilloscope or multimeter.

4. Controller Overheating:

   • Cause: Exceeding the maximum current rating or poor ventilation.
   • Solution: Reduce the motor load or improve ventilation.

• Can I use this controller with a stepper motor? No, the Phidgets Motor Control is designed for brushed DC motors only.

• What software can I use with the USB interface? You can use the Phidgets API, which supports multiple programming languages, including Python, C++, and Java.

• Is reverse polarity protection included? No, ensure correct polarity to avoid damaging the controller.

• Can I control multiple motors with one controller? No, this controller is designed for a single motor. Use additional controllers for multiple motors.

This documentation provides a comprehensive guide to using the Phidgets Motor Control effectively. For further assistance, refer to the official Phidgets support resources.