My current project is to create a camera mount that uses an Arduino as an intervalometer. I want to use a servo to be able to rotate the camera. What size servo can I safely drive using the Arduino 5V output? Do I need to use a dedicated power supply?
I'd like to use this: http://www.sparkfun.com/products/9347
That brings me to my next question: what's a good way to use LiPo batteries for the Arduino and servo? Most LiPo batteries are 3.7V, so I'm assuming I'd need a 5V step-up converter to properly run the Arduino board. That should work, assuming I can run the servo direct from the Arduino, right?
Power choices for Arduino + large servo
Moderators: adafruit_support_bill, adafruit
Please be positive and constructive with your questions and comments.
- adafruit_support_bill
- Posts: 88086
- Joined: Sat Feb 07, 2009 10:11 am
Re: Power choices for Arduino + large servo
I don't have experience with that specific servo, but most of the larger servo's I have worked with need a separate supply for reliable operation with an Arduino. Even 'standard' size 'high torque' servos have very high peak current demands that can cause a processor reset.
To run both the servo and the arduino at 5v from a single LiPo, you would need some sort of boost converter like the MintyBoost. http://www.adafruit.com/products/14
Not sure if the MintyBoost can supply enough current for that servo (current is not listed in the servo specs). But, if you use one boost converter for the Arduino and one for the Servo (both connected to the same battery), it should provide enough isolation for reliable operation.
It is possible to run an Arduino directly from 3.7v. http://www.ladyada.net/library/arduino/3v3_arduino.htmlMost LiPo batteries are 3.7V, so I'm assuming I'd need a 5V step-up converter to properly run the Arduino board.
To run both the servo and the arduino at 5v from a single LiPo, you would need some sort of boost converter like the MintyBoost. http://www.adafruit.com/products/14
Not sure if the MintyBoost can supply enough current for that servo (current is not listed in the servo specs). But, if you use one boost converter for the Arduino and one for the Servo (both connected to the same battery), it should provide enough isolation for reliable operation.
- wesg
- Posts: 118
- Joined: Thu Mar 18, 2010 10:00 pm
Re: Power choices for Arduino + large servo
Thank you, Adafruit support, for your consistently excellent responses!
Please be positive and constructive with your questions and comments.