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

**URL:** <https://forum.core-electronics.com.au/t/do-you-need-to-program-to-make-a-simple-servo-stepper-project/8100>\
**Category:** Support\
**Created:** [29 July 2020 12:43 UTC](https://forum.core-electronics.com.au/t/do-you-need-to-program-to-make-a-simple-servo-stepper-project/8100 "2020-07-29T12:43:21Z")\
**Posts on this page:** 2\
**Page:** 1

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**Author:** ![Vito131506](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/edb3f5/32.png) [@Vito131506](https://forum.core-electronics.com.au/u/Vito131506)\
**Post date:** [29 July 2020 12:43 UTC](https://forum.core-electronics.com.au/t/do-you-need-to-program-to-make-a-simple-servo-stepper-project/8100/1 "2020-07-29T12:43:21Z")

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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

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<div class="post-metadata">

**Author:** ![Owen](https://yyz2.discourse-cdn.com/flex028/user_avatar/forum.core-electronics.com.au/owen/32/2948_2.png) [@Owen](https://forum.core-electronics.com.au/u/Owen)\
**Post date:** [30 July 2020 07:25 UTC](https://forum.core-electronics.com.au/t/do-you-need-to-program-to-make-a-simple-servo-stepper-project/8100/2 "2020-07-30T07:25:32Z")

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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](https://www.sparkfun.com/datasheets/Components/General/ne555.pdf)!

I’d recommend looking into a microcontroller, something like the [Adafruit Trinket](https://core-electronics.com.au/adafruit-trinket-mini-microcontroller-5v-logic.html) and a suitable driver (if necessary) will allow for a small form factor if that’s an issue!