Pololu Motor Controller + Arduino

Hi,
I’m a beginner in robotics, bought rover development platform kit for arduino (uno).
started up with wiring connection : arduino (connected to PC) + ext source for motor supply + 2 motors + Pololu low voltage dual serial motor controller.

Code downloaded to arduino:
//

[code]
int motor_reset = 2; //digital pin 2 assigned to motor reset
void setup()
{
pinMode(motor_reset, OUTPUT);
Serial.begin(9600);
digitalWrite(motor_reset, LOW);
delay(50);
digitalWrite(motor_reset, HIGH);
delay(50);
}

void loop()
{
motorforward();

}

//subroutine motor forward
void motorforward()
{
//left motor
unsigned char buff1[6];
buff1[0]=0x80; //start byte - do not change
buff1[1]=0x00; //Device type byte – do not change
buff1[2]=0x01; //Motor number and direction byte; motor one =00,01
buff1[3]=0x64; //Motor speed “0 to 128” in hex (ex 100 is 64 in hex)
for(int i=0; i<4; i++) {Serial.write(buff1*);}

//right motor
unsigned char buff2[6];
buff2[0]=0x80;
buff2[1]=0x00;
buff2[2]=0x03; //Motor number and direction byte; motor two=02,03
buff2[3]=0x64;
for(int i=0; i<4; i++) {Serial.write(buff2*);}

}[/code]
// …

Problem: motors not working!!
Question: Please, how can I know motor controller is not yet burnt?
Does problem come from the code?

Thanks**

Hi,

Thanks a lot for the information!
Arduino is powered PC USB and wiring connection is conform with that stated in the manual.
Now motor works fine, manual setting (using reset button) was needed to make it worked.

Thanks again!

If the motors have not worked at all, we cannot assume the motor controller is defective.
The likely issue is the wiring. be sure to follow the manual as to how to wire the motor controller.
Can you provide a clear image of your wiring between the Arduino, motor controller, motors and battery pack?
Also, how are you powering the Arduino - from USB or using a 9V battery?