PCA9685 16-Channel 12-Bit Servo Motor Driver Module

PCA9685 16-Channel 12-Bit Servo Motor Driver Module gives you a powerful and straightforward way to control numerous servos or LEDs with a single I²C interface. This module is an excellent solution for complex robotics, animatronics, and lighting projects where you need to precisely manage many outputs without consuming all of your microcontroller’s PWM pins. By offloading the pulse-width modulation (PWM) generation to the dedicated onboard chip, you can focus your main controller on more critical tasks, making your projects more efficient and responsive.

Key Features:

• 16 Independent Channels: Control up to 16 servo motors, LEDs, or other devices simultaneously from one module.
• 12-Bit Resolution: Provides 4096 steps of resolution for each output, enabling extremely smooth and precise control of servo position and LED brightness.
• I²C Communication: Uses the standard two-wire I²C protocol, which simplifies wiring and allows you to daisy-chain multiple modules for even more channels.
• Dedicated PWM Controller: The chip handles all PWM signal generation, freeing up your microcontroller’s processing power.
• Adjustable PWM Frequency: Set the PWM frequency from 40 Hz to 1000 Hz, making it suitable for both servos and static LED lighting.
• 5V-Tolerant Inputs: Safely connect the module to a 5V microcontroller like an Arduino without the need for a logic level converter.

Technical Specifications:

• Operating Voltage: 2.3 V to 5.5 V (for VCC and logic)
• Output Voltage (V+): Up to 6 V for servos
• Channels: 16
• PWM Resolution: 12-bit (4096 steps)
• PWM Frequency: Adjustable from 40 Hz to 1000 Hz
• Interface: I²C (up to 400 kHz)

Mechanical Specifications:

• Module Type: Breakout PCB with soldered PCA9685 IC and passive components.
• Connectors: Screw terminals for power input (V+ and GND) and 3-pin headers for servo outputs (V+, GND, Signal).
• Assembly: Designed for easy integration with standard jumper wires and breadboards.
• Material: FR4 PCB with clear silkscreen labeling.

Dimensions:

• Board Length: ~60 mm
• Board Width: ~25 mm
• Board Thickness: ~1.6 mm

Pinout and Wiring:

• VCC: Logic power supply (2.3 V to 5.5 V).
• GND: Ground.
• SDA: I²C Data Line.
• SCL: I²C Clock Line.
• V+: External power input for servos/LEDs.
• Wiring Note: Connect your microcontroller’s 5V and GND to VCC and GND. Wire SDA and SCL to the corresponding pins. Supply a separate, regulated power source (e.g., a 6V battery pack) to the V+ and GND terminals to power your servos.

Datasheet Reference:

• Download the official NXP Semiconductors PCA9685 datasheet for complete details, register maps, and I²C communication protocols.

Applications:

• Robotics: Drive multi-axis robotic arms, hexapods, and bipedal robots.
• Animatronics: Control the movement of puppets, props, and mechanical creatures.
• Custom Lighting: Create intricate patterns and fades with RGB or single-color LEDs.
• Automation: Manage multiple actuators or solenoids in a single project.

Equivalent Models:

• TLC5940: A 16-channel LED driver IC from Texas Instruments with different communication protocols.
• Direct Microcontroller Control: You can achieve similar functionality using software PWM, but this uses up many GPIO pins and processor cycles.

Package Includes:

• 1 x PCA9685 16-Channel 12-Bit Servo Motor Driver Module