The DC brushed motor is a versatile component that finds application in a wide range of fields, from conveyors to Automated Guide Vehicles (AGVs), mobile robots, and combat robots. One of the reasons for its popularity is its simplicity of use - by connecting the two terminals of the motor to a DC power source, the motor starts rotating, making it easy to operate. However, to regulate the speed and direction of the motor from a controller, a motor driver is required.
Introducing the SmartDrive-160, which boasts an impressive 160 amperes of continuous output current!
The SmartDrive160 is one of the latest motor drivers in the Smart series. It features on-board high current MOSFETs that are switched at 16 KHz, ensuring quiet operation without any annoying whining sound. Additionally, the use of MOSFETs eliminates the need for additional flyback diodes. The SmartDrive160 is equipped with a microcontroller unit that provides intelligent features such as multiple input modes, current limiting, and thermal protection. Moreover, two SmartDrive160 units can be connected and operated in pair, making it a plug and play experience for driving a robot with differential drive.
Note that normal wire cannot withstand high currents such as 160A or even 100A. It is recommended to use the thickest possible wire for both the Vmotor and Motor connections. We recommend using 2 to 3 8AWG cables (one black and one red) for each terminal.
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Bi-directional control for a single brushed DC motor.
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Support input voltage from 8V to 28V.
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Is able to deliver maximum current up to:
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190A peak (1 minute)
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175A (2 minutes)
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160A (continuously)
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16 KHz switching frequency for quiet operation.
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LiPo battery low voltage warning.
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Full Solid State component (MOSFETs) for switching. No additional fly back diodes needed.
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Regenerative Braking.
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NO Reverse Polarity Protection for Vmotor, please double check the connection!
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Thermal protection.
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Current limiting base on temperature.
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Below 60°C : 194A
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60°C to 70°C : 175A
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70°C to 80°C : 163A
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80°C to 90°C : 144A
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90°C to 100°C : 125A
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100°C to 110°C : 100A
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Above 110°C : 50A
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Multiple input modes: (configure through the DIP switches)
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RC (Radio Control)
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Analog (Analog voltage from Potentiometer or Joystick)
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PWM and DIR (3.3V and 5V compatible, Arduino or Raspberry Pi)
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UART (Simplified Serial and Packetized Serial)
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On board push buttons for fast test and manual operation.
- Dimension: 122mm x 178mm x 75mm
Operating Condition | |
Motor Channel | 1 |
Operating Voltage (VDC) | 8 to 28 |
Peak Current (A) | 190 |
Continuous Current (A) | 160 |
Operating Modes | |
Arduino Shield | No - can be used with Wire connection |
PWM (Lock-Antiphase and Sign-Magnitude) | Yes |
UART | Yes |
Analog | Yes |
RC Servo Signal | Yes |
Special Protection | |
Polarity Protection | No |
Current / Thermal Protection | Yes |
Appearance | |
LEDs Indicator | Yes |
Test/Manual Button | Yes |
Cooling Fan | Yes |
- 1 x MDS160A