What is Arduino DCC ServoShield?
Arduino DCC ServoShield is an open source project that enables users to transform an Arduino board into an accessory decoder capable of controlling up to 16 servos independently. It is designed to receive commands from a DCC Command Station or a computer, allowing users to control movements such as opening the garage door or moving a turnout.
How to Build the Shield?
The project provides all the necessary files to build the shield, including the source code of the sketch. The shield is built using a PCB website, with the link provided in the documentation. Once the shield is ready, the sketch must be uploaded to an Arduino Uno board using the Arduino IDE program, which can be downloaded from the official Arduino website.
Components Needed
In addition to the Arduino board, the project requires the PCA9685 integrated circuit, which can be obtained from various websites. The board must be connected to the shield using a connector.
How to Use the Shield?
Once the shield is built and the sketch is uploaded, users can control up to 16 servos independently using the DCC Command Station or a computer. The shield can be used to control movements such as opening the garage door or moving a turnout.
Powering the Board
The Arduino DCC ServoShield requires a power supply to function, typically a 5 volt power supply connected to the terminal. It is important to pay close attention to the polarity of the power supply, as incorrect wiring can cause damage to the board.
Connecting Servos
The board has 16 outputs to which servos can be connected. It is important to pay close attention to the polarity when connecting servos, as incorrect wiring can cause damage to the board. Brown or black wires indicate ground, while red wires indicate positive voltage. The board has a screen printed diagram to help guide users when connecting servos.
Connecting the DCC Signal
The last step is to connect the DCC signal to the terminal block on the shield. This will allow the decoder to receive commands from the command station.
Resetting the Decoder
The first thing to do is to reset the decoder in order to configure all the parameters to the factory values. This can be done by holding down the program button and pressing the reset button on the Arduino. The LED will flash five times to indicate that the factory reset has happened.
Default Base Address
The default base address of the decoder is F. This address also corresponds to the first servo. The next one will have address five and so on. This allows users to test the decoder by sending a command to address four with their command station.
Programming the CVs
The most complex aspect in configuring a decoder for servos is programming the CVs. This involves finding the correct values based on the desired position. The shield can help with this by providing a simple and guided programming mode. This mode is accessed by holding down the program button for at least one second, at which point the LED will light up and the display will show the address of the decoder. The address can then be modified by pressing the up and down buttons and pressing the program button.
Overview of Arduino DCC ServoShield
The Arduino DCC ServoShield is a device that enables users to control the speed and position of a turnout, rail, or other moving part. It is designed to be used with an Arduino microcontroller and is capable of programming the output, speed, and direction of the movement. The device is also capable of ending programming without reaching the output, by simply holding the program button as the value is updated.
Benefits of Arduino DCC ServoShield
The Arduino DCC ServoShield offers a number of benefits for users. It is easy to use and allows for precise control of the speed and position of a moving part. The device is also capable of programming the output, speed, and direction of the movement without having to reach the output. This makes it ideal for applications where precise control is required.
Real-World Applications
The Arduino DCC ServoShield can be used in a variety of real-world applications. It can be used to control the speed and position of a turnout, rail, or other moving part. It can also be used to control the speed and direction of a motor or other device. Additionally, the device can be used to control the speed and direction of a robotic arm or other robotic device.
The Arduino DCC ServoShield is a powerful and versatile device that enables users to control the speed and position of a turnout, rail, or other moving part. It is easy to use and allows for precise control of the speed and direction of the movement. The device is also capable of programming the output, speed, and direction of the movement without having to reach the output. This makes it ideal for applications where precise control is required.
