Hi there i looking to build a robot using two 14.4v drills as the motors and have be recommended using a [font=Arial]sabretooth 25amp speed controller but was wondering if there is an cheaper alternative I could use.[/font]
[font=Arial]Many thanks[/font]
[font=Arial]Lewiscgcol12[/font]
Hi,
What is the continuous current consumption of the motors you are planning to use ? Also, how are you planning controlling the motors ? (RC, PWM, TTL, Analog …)
This “Choosing a Motor Controller” Article might be useful.
The two drill motors are 14.4v and I am going to be using rc control
14.4V is the nominal voltage of the motors and not the current consumption. You can search for the motor’s datasheet with the motor’s model reference (or the drill’s product code) to find its rated current consumption.
You can go ahead and choose a motor controller without knowing your motor’s current consumption, however, if your motors consume more than your driver can provide, this will burn the MOSFETs on your driver and damage the board.
Or you can aim for a driver with high current capabilities guessing that it will work with your motors but this will be more expensive solution as higher current, more expensive price.
The Sabertooth Dual 25A 6V-24V Regenerative Motor Driver for example costs 119.99$, it can drive 2 DC motors (6V-24V) providing up to 25Amps of continuous current with Analog, R/C, simplified serial and packetized serial interfaces (TTL).
The Sabertooth Dual 12A 6V-24V R/C Regenerative Motor Driver costs 64.99$, it can drive 2 DC motors (6V-24V) providing up to 12Amps of continuous current only in RC.