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Controling a 3-axis skull with prop2

Started by GOT, January 14, 2010, 06:37:05 AM

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GOT

I will be using a 3-axis skull this year for Halloween and would like to know if the prop2 is up to the task.  I saw your post with a faux parallel multi-servo control but would like your opinion.  Does prop2 have enough amperage to handle three Hitec HS-425BB servos simultaneously (plus a few LEDs) and is this  realistic approach (I am not trying to get complicated with the skull motion and a scary-Terry board will handle the jaw motions).  Is it better to graduate to prop-sx (I really don't want to learn a new programming language for this).

JonnyMac

Others have done it but programming smooth skull motion in PBASIC isn't easy.

All of our controllers have 1A 5v regulators which is fine for most applications, but often not for multi-servo apps, especially when the servos are under load.  This is why we created the servo power board; whether you're using the Prop-2 or the Prop-SX you may need this to provide the current for the servos (which can be up to 0.5A each under load).
Jon McPhalen
EFX-TEK Hollywood Office

JackMan

I've been involved in R/C airplanes for quite a few years and a little trick I've used for mechanical retracts may work for this situation. Use a completely separate 5VDC power supply that has the capacity to run all of the servos. Connect it to the red and black wires of the servos but DO NOT connect the red wires to the Prop-1/Prop-2. The servos will draw power from the dedicated power supply and not the controller. I've used this setup in airplanes to prevent the main battery pack from draining should the retracts ever bind up. I have not tried this on a Prop-1/Prop-2 but it should work fine. Check with Jon.
   
P.S.     Not trying to take away any sales of the Servo Power Board, these are a good solution.  ;D

JonnyMac

No worries, Jack, we have similarly advised many customers.  The SPB is for those not wanting to do their own wiring.
Jon McPhalen
EFX-TEK Hollywood Office