How to Use MKS DUAL FOC: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The MKS DUAL FOC (V3.3), manufactured by Makerbase, is a dual-channel field-oriented control (FOC) driver designed for brushless DC (BLDC) motors. It enables precise control and high efficiency, making it ideal for applications such as robotics, electric vehicles, drones, and industrial automation. By leveraging FOC technology, the MKS DUAL FOC ensures smooth motor operation, reduced noise, and optimized power consumption.

• Robotics (e.g., robotic arms, mobile robots)
• Electric vehicles (e.g., e-bikes, scooters)
• Drones and UAVs
• Industrial automation systems
• CNC machines and 3D printers

The MKS DUAL FOC features a set of connectors for power, motor outputs, and communication. Below is the pin configuration:

1. Power Supply: Connect a DC power supply (12V - 48V) to the VIN+ and VIN- pins. Ensure the power supply can handle the current requirements of the motors.
2. Motor Connections: Connect the three-phase wires of each BLDC motor to the corresponding M1_A, M1_B, M1_C (for Motor 1) and M2_A, M2_B, M2_C (for Motor 2) pins.
3. Communication: Use UART, CAN, or PWM to control the driver. For example:
   • UART: Connect the UART_TX and UART_RX pins to a microcontroller or PC for serial communication.
   • PWM: Provide a PWM signal to the PWM1 and PWM2 pins for speed and direction control.
4. Control Logic: Program your microcontroller or control system to send appropriate commands to the MKS DUAL FOC based on your application requirements.

• Voltage Compatibility: Ensure the input voltage matches the motor's operating voltage range.
• Heat Dissipation: Use a heatsink or active cooling if the driver operates near its maximum current rating.
• Wiring: Double-check all connections to avoid short circuits or incorrect wiring.
• Motor Tuning: Use the Makerbase configuration software to fine-tune motor parameters for optimal performance.

Below is an example of controlling a BLDC motor connected to the MKS DUAL FOC using PWM signals from an Arduino UNO.

// Example: Controlling MKS DUAL FOC with Arduino UNO
// This code generates a PWM signal to control Motor 1 speed and direction.

// Define PWM pin for Motor 1
const int pwmPin = 9; // Connect to PWM1 on MKS DUAL FOC

void setup() {
  // Set the PWM pin as output
  pinMode(pwmPin, OUTPUT);
}

void loop() {
  // Generate a PWM signal to control motor speed
  analogWrite(pwmPin, 128); // 50% duty cycle (range: 0-255)
  
  // Delay for 2 seconds
  delay(2000);

  // Stop the motor
  analogWrite(pwmPin, 0); // 0% duty cycle (motor off)
  
  // Delay for 2 seconds
  delay(2000);
}

• Adjust the analogWrite value to control motor speed (0 = off, 255 = full speed).
• Ensure the Arduino's ground (GND) is connected to the MKS DUAL FOC's GND.

1. Motor Not Spinning

   • Cause: Incorrect wiring or insufficient power supply.
   • Solution: Verify motor connections and ensure the power supply meets voltage and current requirements.

2. Overheating

   • Cause: Prolonged operation at high current without proper cooling.
   • Solution: Add a heatsink or active cooling to the driver.

3. Communication Failure

   • Cause: Incorrect UART or CAN wiring.
   • Solution: Check the communication connections and ensure the baud rate matches the configuration.

4. Erratic Motor Behavior

   • Cause: Incorrect motor parameters or noise in the control signals.
   • Solution: Use the Makerbase configuration software to tune motor parameters and add filtering to control signals.

• Q: Can I use the MKS DUAL FOC with a single motor?

  • A: Yes, you can use it with one motor by leaving the unused motor connections unconnected.

• Q: What is the maximum supported motor speed?

  • A: The maximum speed depends on the motor's specifications and the input voltage. Ensure the motor's RPM rating is compatible with the driver.

• Q: Is the MKS DUAL FOC compatible with sensorless BLDC motors?

  • A: Yes, it supports both sensored and sensorless BLDC motors.

• Q: Can I use the MKS DUAL FOC with a Raspberry Pi?

  • A: Yes, you can use the UART or CAN interface to communicate with a Raspberry Pi.

This concludes the documentation for the MKS DUAL FOC (V3.3). For further assistance, refer to the Makerbase user manual or contact their support team.