How to Use NANO 5A SUMO CONTROLLER: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The NANO 5A SUMO CONTROLLER by MYCEST (Part ID: NANO 5A) is a compact and efficient motor controller specifically designed for managing the movement and operations of sumo robots. With a 5A current rating, it is capable of handling high-power motors, making it ideal for competitive robotics applications. Its small form factor and robust design ensure reliable performance in demanding environments.

• Sumo robots for competitive robotics
• Small to medium-sized robotic platforms
• High-torque motor control for hobbyist and educational projects
• Projects requiring precise motor speed and direction control

The following table outlines the key technical details of the NANO 5A SUMO CONTROLLER:

The NANO 5A SUMO CONTROLLER has a simple pinout for easy integration into your projects. The pin configuration is as follows:

1. Power Supply: Connect a DC power supply (6V to 24V) to the VIN and GND pins. Ensure the power supply can provide sufficient current for your motors.
2. Motor Connections: Connect the motors to the M1+/M1- and M2+/M2- terminals. Ensure the motors are within the controller's current rating.
3. Logic Connections:
   • Connect the PWM1 and DIR1 pins to your microcontroller for Motor 1 control.
   • Connect the PWM2 and DIR2 pins to your microcontroller for Motor 2 control.
   • Use the EN pin to enable or disable the controller.
4. Logic Voltage Compatibility: The controller is compatible with both 3.3V and 5V logic levels, making it suitable for most microcontrollers, including Arduino and Raspberry Pi.

• Heat Dissipation: The controller may heat up during operation. Ensure proper ventilation or use a heatsink if operating near the maximum current rating.
• Current Limits: Avoid exceeding the 5A continuous current rating to prevent damage to the controller.
• Reverse Polarity Protection: While the controller has built-in reverse polarity protection, always double-check your connections to avoid accidental damage.
• PWM Frequency: Use a PWM frequency between 1kHz and 20kHz for optimal motor performance.

Below is an example code snippet to control two motors using the NANO 5A SUMO CONTROLLER with an Arduino UNO:

// Define motor control pins
const int PWM1 = 3;  // PWM pin for Motor 1
const int DIR1 = 4;  // Direction pin for Motor 1
const int PWM2 = 5;  // PWM pin for Motor 2
const int DIR2 = 6;  // Direction pin for Motor 2
const int EN = 7;    // Enable pin for the controller

void setup() {
  // Set pin modes
  pinMode(PWM1, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(DIR1, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(PWM2, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(DIR2, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(EN, OUTPUT);

  // Enable the motor controller
  digitalWrite(EN, HIGH);
}

void loop() {
  // Example: Move both motors forward at 50% speed
  digitalWrite(DIR1, HIGH);  // Set Motor 1 direction forward
  analogWrite(PWM1, 128);    // Set Motor 1 speed (128/255 = 50%)

  digitalWrite(DIR2, HIGH);  // Set Motor 2 direction forward
  analogWrite(PWM2, 128);    // Set Motor 2 speed (128/255 = 50%)

  delay(2000);  // Run for 2 seconds

  // Example: Reverse both motors at 75% speed
  digitalWrite(DIR1, LOW);   // Set Motor 1 direction reverse
  analogWrite(PWM1, 192);    // Set Motor 1 speed (192/255 = 75%)

  digitalWrite(DIR2, LOW);   // Set Motor 2 direction reverse
  analogWrite(PWM2, 192);    // Set Motor 2 speed (192/255 = 75%)

  delay(2000);  // Run for 2 seconds
}

1. Motors Not Running:

   • Ensure the EN pin is pulled HIGH to enable the controller.
   • Verify the power supply voltage and current are sufficient for the motors.
   • Check the PWM and DIR signals from the microcontroller.

2. Overheating:

   • Ensure the controller is not exceeding the 5A continuous current rating.
   • Provide adequate ventilation or use a heatsink.

3. Erratic Motor Behavior:

   • Verify the PWM frequency is within the recommended range (1kHz to 20kHz).
   • Check for loose or faulty connections.

4. Controller Not Responding:

   • Ensure the logic voltage levels (3.3V or 5V) are correctly matched to the microcontroller.
   • Double-check all wiring and connections.

Q: Can I use the NANO 5A SUMO CONTROLLER with a 12V battery?
A: Yes, the controller supports a wide operating voltage range of 6V to 24V, so a 12V battery is suitable.

Q: What happens if I exceed the 5A current rating?
A: The controller has built-in overcurrent protection, but exceeding the rating frequently may cause overheating or damage. Always use motors within the specified limits.

Q: Can I control only one motor with this controller?
A: Yes, you can use just one motor by connecting it to either Motor 1 or Motor 2 terminals and leaving the other set of terminals unconnected.

Q: Is the controller compatible with Raspberry Pi?
A: Yes, the controller is compatible with 3.3V logic levels, making it suitable for Raspberry Pi and other similar platforms.