How to Use Sabertooth 2*32: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The Sabertooth 2*32 is a dual-channel motor driver designed to control two DC motors with a maximum continuous current of 32A per channel. Manufactured by Dimension Engineering, this motor driver is highly versatile and suitable for a wide range of applications, including robotics, automation systems, and remote-controlled vehicles. It supports multiple control modes such as analog, R/C, serial, and packetized serial, making it adaptable to various control systems.

• Robotics (e.g., mobile robots, robotic arms)
• Automated guided vehicles (AGVs)
• Remote-controlled cars, boats, and drones
• Conveyor systems and industrial automation
• Electric wheelchairs and mobility devices

The following table outlines the key technical details of the Sabertooth 2*32 motor driver:

The Sabertooth 2*32 has a set of input and output pins for motor control and communication. Below is the pin configuration:

1. Power Supply: Connect a DC power supply (6V to 30V) to the VIN and GND terminals. Ensure the power supply can handle the current requirements of your motors.
2. Motor Connections: Connect the terminals of Motor 1 to M1A and M1B, and Motor 2 to M2A and M2B.
3. Control Input: Depending on your control mode:
   • For analog control, connect a potentiometer or analog signal to S1 and S2.
   • For R/C control, connect the R/C receiver outputs to S1 and S2.
   • For serial control, connect the TX and RX pins to a microcontroller or PC.
4. Configuration: Use the DIP switches on the board to set the operating mode. Refer to the user manual for DIP switch settings.

The Sabertooth 2*32 can be controlled via serial communication with an Arduino UNO. Below is an example code snippet to control two motors:

#include <SoftwareSerial.h>

// Define TX and RX pins for SoftwareSerial
SoftwareSerial SabertoothSerial(10, 11); // TX = Pin 10, RX = Pin 11

void setup() {
  SabertoothSerial.begin(9600); // Initialize serial communication at 9600 baud
}

void loop() {
  // Send commands to control motor speed
  // Motor 1 forward at 50% speed
  SabertoothSerial.write(64 + 50); // 64 is the base command for motor 1 forward
  
  delay(1000); // Run motor for 1 second
  
  // Motor 2 reverse at 75% speed
  SabertoothSerial.write(192 + 75); // 192 is the base command for motor 2 reverse
  
  delay(1000); // Run motor for 1 second
}

• Power Supply: Ensure the power supply voltage and current ratings match the requirements of your motors and the Sabertooth 2*32.
• Heat Dissipation: The motor driver may heat up during operation. Use proper ventilation or a heatsink if necessary.
• Wiring: Use thick wires for motor and power connections to handle high currents without overheating.
• Configuration: Always configure the DIP switches correctly before powering the device.

1. Motors not running:

   • Check the power supply voltage and connections.
   • Verify the DIP switch settings for the selected control mode.
   • Ensure the control signals (e.g., serial commands) are being sent correctly.

2. Overheating:

   • Ensure the motor driver is not exceeding its current or voltage limits.
   • Improve ventilation or add a heatsink to the device.

3. Erratic motor behavior:

   • Check for loose or faulty wiring.
   • Verify that the control signals are clean and within the expected range.

4. No response to serial commands:

   • Ensure the baud rate matches the Sabertooth 2*32 settings.
   • Check the TX and RX connections between the microcontroller and the motor driver.

Q: Can I use the Sabertooth 2*32 with a 24V battery?
A: Yes, the Sabertooth 2*32 supports input voltages up to 30V, so a 24V battery is within the acceptable range.

Q: How do I reset the Sabertooth 2*32 to factory settings?
A: You can reset the device by setting all DIP switches to the default position and cycling the power.

Q: Can I control brushless motors with the Sabertooth 2*32?
A: No, the Sabertooth 2*32 is designed for brushed DC motors only.

Q: Is it possible to control the Sabertooth 2*32 via USB?
A: Yes, but you will need a USB-to-serial adapter to connect it to a PC.

By following this documentation, you can effectively integrate the Sabertooth 2*32 into your projects and troubleshoot common issues.