12 vdc wiper motor and Prop-1 controller

[CraigN]

If I wanted to add a 12 vdc wiper motor to the prop-1 would I connect the dc power wires to the terminal block output on the prop-1 or would I have to use a relay?

I am assuming that the outputs are N/O contacts and that when the prop-1 sends the command to the terminal block it completes the circuit(?) so in theory I would complete the circuit on the DC side of the power supply and start the motor turning?

Trying not to let the magic smoke out of the prop-1 on my first time out.

Thanks!

[JonnyMac]

You MUST use a relay else the ULN2803 will go up in a big puff of smoke!  Please don't test this -- we do enough destructive testing during product development for everyone!  ;D

Jeff Davis made a great find at All Electronics:
-- http://www.allelectronics.com/make-a-store/item/RLY-525/DUAL-12-VDC-RELAYS-DOOR-LOCK-RELAY-/1.html

(I'm going to pop by there today and pick up a few)

With this relay module and two outputs you can have forward and reverse control of the motor.  Here's a schematic I drew based on the diagram on the relay:



This schematic assumes an external supply (you need a couple amps for the motor).  Be sure to connect the GND terminal of the Prop-1 to the ground side of the external supply.

[CraigN]

Thank you very much for the quick reply.

(Sorry about changing topics in the previous post.  Won't happen again.)

[TDD]

Ok I'm really just getting my feet wet and I have the same problem, but as I look at the schematic I have know idea what connection go to what connection. I picked up the VBA-2016 and using a prop one controller. Can someone clear me up on what write setup is. Thank you in advance

[JonnyMac]

The tabs are marked on the relay -- here's more detail on the connections:

A: This goes to the green terminal block on the Prop-1 marked OUT1
B: This goes to one side of the motor being controlled
C: This goes to the green terminal block on the Prop-1 marked GND and the the external supply ground (black wire)
D: This goes to the external supply positive (red wire)
E: This goes to the other side of the motor being controlled
F: This goes to the green terminal block on the Prop-1 marked OUT0

Now... if this doesn't help then I suggest you enlist a friend with a little more experience; we'd hate to have you make a bad connection and damage anything.  This stuff is pretty easy once you learn a few basics.

[MMayberry]

I have had good luck using the Parallax HB-25 DC motor controller in synch with the Prop-1.  You can find alot of information regarding connectivity and programming in these forums.  One suggestion, connect a minimum 1 amp power supply directly to the HB-25; don't tap through the Prop-1 as the wiper motor can draw significant amperage under load.