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robo claw dual motor controller

Discussion in 'SimTools compatible interfaces' started by wimpo`, Oct 19, 2010.

  1. wimpo`

    wimpo` Member

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    robo claw 2x25 amp dual motor controller.
    built in pid loop with dual optical encoder decoder.
    pwm up to 14 bits of precision.
    Datasheet.
    http://www.robotmarketplace.com/products/0-BMROBOCLAW25.html
    I think it requires a micro controller like arduino to communicate with computer?
    It looks like its a good controller to me.
    But lets wait till the experts give there judgement. :cheers:
    wimpo`, Oct 19, 2010
    #1
  2. Frakk

    Frakk Active Member

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    The specifications are not bad, I can see it work if the PID works properly.

    I would assume you only need to serially interface it to the computer and send proper commands to make it work, no other controller is needed.

    What really bugs me is that the high current parts are not shown, neither explained in the datasheet.
    It is probably a VNH2SP30 for each motor, but still.

    The synchronous regenerative feature and the fact that you cannot change it could be trouble. It will feed back the energy generated by the motors straight to the supply every time the motors slow down (which is pretty often in a simulator). This could cause it to shut down from over voltage, or even damage it permanently. If the power supply cannot handle this, using a battery would be mandatory to soak up the extra energy.

    Not having analog inputs for simple potentiometers is a HUGE negative. Just add ~$100 extra for 2 encoders, maybe a bit less if lower resolution encoders are used on the motor shaft.


    All in all I would encourage anyone brave enough to experiment with it! :D
    Frakk, Oct 20, 2010
    #2
  3. kubing

    kubing Member

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    i have order VNH2SP30 dual motor driver from polulu...is this type of driver design to be used with battery too?

    Dual VNH2SP30 Motor Driver Carrier MD03A
    kubing, Oct 20, 2010
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  4. Frakk

    Frakk Active Member

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    As long as your voltage is within the limits you can use any power supply with enough current.

    How could a piece of silicon tell the difference between a 12V PSU and a 12V battery?
    Frakk, Oct 21, 2010
    #4
  5. kubing

    kubing Member

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    haha..of coz they dont.
    kubing, Oct 21, 2010
    #5