Do you need to program to make a simple servo/stepper project?

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1

Hi all,

I’m looking to have a small motor (Servo or stepper) to flick approx 120 degrees and back home again when triggered by a switch. Do I need to program to make this happen or is there simpler ways to achieve this.

In sizing this gear, I’m looking to lift a piece of cardboard for a machine to catch it, I would rather it be stronger than weak.

Looking forward to understand this all.

Vito

2

Hey Vito,

You control a servo by varying the duty cycle going into the input signal wire. That I know of, I don’t believe there is a way to do this with just a switch, unless you can implement something like a 555 timer and vary the duty cycle on it to be exactly what you need.

However, I think this would be a much more difficult task to do than simply using a microcontroller. If you would like some more intel on the 555 timer though, you can check the datasheet here!

I’d recommend looking into a microcontroller, something like the Adafruit Trinket and a suitable driver (if necessary) will allow for a small form factor if that’s an issue!