I'm trying to move up into the category I originally got into robotics for in the first place: bigger buddies!
I have a Raspberry Pi I'd like to use to control some linear actuators, which are 12v and lift about 225lbs. I'm unaware of their amp usage: a search for similar rated ones said ~4-5A. They were purchased from an online auto parts place, so it's unlikely they'd know.
Now, I also have an Arduino Uno I've used to interface with for motors, but it also can't output over half an amp on a pin. I also have a L293D motor controller I can wire to the Pi, but that's limited to .6A output per channel, IIRC.
Lastly, I could use the obvious and typically used relays to control it, which I may do for starters... but I really would like to have PWM available to work with on this. I want to be able make a slider that controls the speed of the motor when it's being used.
Perhaps, would I be able to use one of those slider switches used in certain lighting systems to control the power going to them? I would be willing to use them rather than on a touchscreen display if it's likely that would work, though I might prefer having it available on screen for remote control.
Thanks for your time, opinions, and feedback!