Society of Robots - Robot Forum

Electronics => Electronics => Topic started by: wingers on January 15, 2009, 12:04:24 PM

Title: roboticsconnection serializer controller with lynxmotion 4wd1 base
Post by: wingers on January 15, 2009, 12:04:24 PM
Hi
Apologies first of all if this is posted in wrong place, couldn't really see a more relevant section

I am in the process of planning and building a robot, the controller card that I really like the idea of (mainly due to reviews and the fact it is designed to be programmed using visual studio or Microsoft Robotics Studio) is the Serializer WL from robotics connection

Originally I was going to get their chassis too (traxster), but have now found the lynxmotion 4wd1 base and like it and the idea of the add on decks etc, and as I want to put my Asus EEE onboard at some point is an ideal size

My question is can I use this chassis and its 4 motors with a serializer WL? (think it only has two motor inputs, so not sure how to get round this), or does someone have any suggestions as to a better controller etc

Thanks, excuse the long explanation!
Title: Re: roboticsconnection serializer controller with lynxmotion 4wd1 base
Post by: Admin on January 23, 2009, 05:55:12 AM
If you have four motors, but doing differential drive, then the motors can be connected together.

ie, left motors act as a single motor, and right motors act as a single motor.

Your motor driver will think there are only two motors, although there is really four.

Just make sure your motor driver can handle the current!
Title: Re: roboticsconnection serializer controller with lynxmotion 4wd1 base
Post by: Ro-Bot-X on January 23, 2009, 06:58:47 AM
The serializer can power 2 DC motors up to 4A each. If you install 4 DC motors (2 motors connected in paralel for each side), the motors need to be up to 2A each.

The Lynxmotion recommends the 4WD1 kit to work with 2x10 Sabertooth controller, that means up to 10A per side, so the motors are up to 5A each!

Actually, looking at the motors (GHM01) that come with the basic kit, they need 1.5A at stall, so they can work with the serializer. However, if other motors are included in the kit (GHM02 and up) you need to look carefull at the motor datasheet to see that the max current does not excede 2A. If it does, you need a different motor controller.