Waveshare PCA9685 16-Channel Servo Driver | 12-bit PWM Control | I2C Interface for micro:bit
₹149.00₹250.00 (price_including_tax) (-40%)
Empower your micro:bit robotics with precise multi-channel servo control. This module transforms simple micro:bit outputs into sophisticated motion commands for up to 16 servos. Engineered with high-grade components, it ensures stable and reliable performance for your creations.
Precision 12-bit PWM control for up to 16 servos, seamlessly integrating with micro:bit projects.
Seamlessly connects to micro:bit, simplifying complex multi-servo control for educational robotics.
Achieve unparalleled smoothness and accuracy with 12-bit PWM resolution across all channels.
Utilizes only two micro:bit pins, preserving valuable GPIO for other sensors and components.
The Engineering Behind Waveshare 16-Channel Servo Driver
This Waveshare 16-Channel Servo Driver module is meticulously designed to expand the control capabilities of your micro:bit, enabling the precise manipulation of multiple servos simultaneously. At its core lies the PCA9685, a dedicated 12-bit PWM controller chip, which offloads the complex timing required for servo control from the micro:bit’s main processor. It communicates via the ubiquitous I2C protocol, allowing for straightforward integration and minimal pin usage on the host board.
Constructed with robust PCB materials and high-quality passive components, this driver board ensures long-term stability and consistent performance even under varying loads. Its compact form factor is optimized for integration into educational robotics platforms and DIY automation projects, providing a durable solution for intricate motion control tasks.
High-Resolution 12-bit PWM Control
The PCA9685 chip delivers 12-bit Pulse Width Modulation, meaning each servo channel can achieve 4096 distinct positions. This exceptionally high resolution translates to incredibly smooth and accurate motion control, crucial for applications requiring fine-tuned angular adjustments such as robotic arms, pan-tilt mechanisms, or complex animatronics, far exceeding the native PWM capabilities of the micro:bit.
Efficient I2C Communication Interface
Utilizing the I2C (Inter-Integrated Circuit) serial communication protocol, this servo driver requires only two data lines (SDA and SCL) plus power and ground for operation. This efficient interface liberates valuable GPIO pins on the micro:bit for other sensors or actuators, simplifying wiring and reducing complexity in multi-component projects, while also allowing up to 62 of these modules to be daisy-chained.
Optimized for Performance & Integration
- Controller Chip: PCA9685
- Channels: 16 independent servo channels
- PWM Resolution: 12-bit (4096 steps per channel)
- Communication Interface: I2C
- Operating Voltage (Logic): 3.3V / 5V (from micro:bit)
- Servo Power Input: 5V to 6V DC (external supply recommended)
- Onboard I2C Address Selectors: Up to 62 unique addresses
- Compatibility: Specifically designed for micro:bit, but compatible with any I2C host.
Features & Benefits
- 16-Channel Servo Control: Drive multiple servos simultaneously from a single micro:bit, perfect for complex robotics.
- 12-bit PWM Resolution: Achieve smooth, precise, and highly accurate servo movements for intricate control.
- I2C Communication: Conserve micro:bit GPIO pins and simplify wiring with a two-wire serial interface.
- Dedicated PCA9685 Chip: Offloads PWM timing from the micro:bit, ensuring consistent performance without processor strain.
- Flexible Power Input: Separate power input for servos ensures stable operation without overloading the micro:bit.
- Daisy-Chainable Design: Connect multiple modules to expand servo control far beyond 16 channels.
Pro-Grade Advantages
- Expands micro:bit’s servo control significantly (16 channels).
- High 12-bit PWM resolution for extremely smooth motion.
- Dedicated PCA9685 chip prevents micro:bit CPU overload.
- I2C interface is efficient and allows daisy-chaining multiple modules.
Technical Considerations
- Requires external power supply for servos, not powered directly by micro:bit.
- Initial I2C address configuration might require careful attention for multiple boards.
What is the primary function of the Waveshare 16-Channel Servo Driver?
Its primary function is to extend the micro:bit’s capability to control multiple servos simultaneously with high precision, using the I2C communication protocol.
How many servos can this module control?
The module is designed to control up to 16 individual servo motors, each with its own dedicated PWM output channel.
What is the significance of 12-bit PWM resolution?
12-bit PWM resolution means each servo channel can be set to 4096 distinct positions, providing exceptionally smooth and fine-grained control over servo movement compared to lower resolutions.
Does this module require an external power supply?
Yes, while the module’s logic can be powered by the micro:bit, an external power supply (typically 5V-6V DC) is highly recommended and often necessary to power the connected servos.
Can multiple Waveshare 16-Channel Servo Drivers be used together?
Yes, thanks to the I2C protocol’s addressing scheme, multiple modules can be daisy-chained and controlled by a single micro:bit, provided each module has a unique I2C address.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Controller IC | PCA9685 |
| Communication Protocol | I2C |
| Servo Channels | 16 |
| PWM Resolution | 12-bit (4096 steps) |
| Logic Operating Voltage | 3.3V / 5V |
| Servo Supply Voltage | 5V ~ 6V DC (External) |
| I2C Address Configuration | Solder pads A0-A5 |
| Mounting Holes | 4x (M2.5) |
Additional information
| Brand | Waveshare |
|---|---|
| Technology | Servo Driver |
| Control Interface | I2C |
| Operating Voltage | 3.3V (Logic), 5-6V DC (Servo) |
| Channels | 16 |
| Main Controller | PCA9685 |
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