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wiki:v2:my_pantilt_is_acting_sort_of_crazy [2018/07/09 20:51]
pixycam
wiki:v2:my_pantilt_is_acting_sort_of_crazy [2018/12/26 20:40] (current)
jfrench added try unplugging one servo
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 If you are powering Pixy through the Arduino cable instead of through the USB cable, or the [[wiki:​v2:​Powering_Pixy|I/​O connector]],​ the servos are likely not going to get enough power. This is because the Arduino typically can't source enough current for the servos, and the Arduino cable tends to drop significant voltage. There are more details [[wiki:​v2:​Powering_Pixy|here]] on different powering methods. If you are powering Pixy through the Arduino cable instead of through the USB cable, or the [[wiki:​v2:​Powering_Pixy|I/​O connector]],​ the servos are likely not going to get enough power. This is because the Arduino typically can't source enough current for the servos, and the Arduino cable tends to drop significant voltage. There are more details [[wiki:​v2:​Powering_Pixy|here]] on different powering methods.
 +
 +One way to check if you have a power issue: if you connect only one servo - that is, try unplugging one - does the issue persist?
 +
 +If unplugging a servo solves it, that would point to current draw beyond the capabilities of your USB port or cable.
  
  
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 ===== 7. Test the servos ===== ===== 7. Test the servos =====
  
-Bring up the console in PixyMon by selecting **View➜console**. ​ Then and hit the stop button (upper left corner of PixyMon). In the console window type this, hitting <​return>​ after each line:+Bring up the console in PixyMon by selecting **View➜console**. ​ Then hit the stop button (upper left corner of PixyMon). In the console window type this, hitting <​return>​ after each line:
  
 <​code>​ <​code>​
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 </​code>​ </​code>​
  
-The first two commands should move pan servo back and forth. ​ The last two commands should move the tilt servo up and down. The movement ​should be smooth and rapidIf not, make a note of which servo is acting strange, and send us an email describing your experience (<​support@charmedlabs.com>).+The first two commands should move pan servo back and forth. ​ The last two commands should move the tilt servo up and down.  Are the servos reversed? ​ If so, reverse the servo connectors. ​ Is the movement smooth and rapid?  ​If not, try removing one of the servos and measuring the voltage at the exposed ​servo connector with a voltmeter while exerting torque on the other servo. ​ Refer to the picture below for the servo connector pin-outs. 
 + 
 +{{wiki:​v2:​image_248_2.jpg?​500}} 
 + 
 +The measured voltage should be 4.9V or above with the other servo under load.  If the voltage ​is less than 4.9Vinvestigate your power source'​s voltage ​and its ability to deliver at least 500mA. ​  
 + 
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 +Regardless, ​send us an email describing your experience (<​support@pixycam.com>).
  
  
wiki/v2/my_pantilt_is_acting_sort_of_crazy.1531169504.txt.gz · Last modified: 2018/07/09 20:51 by pixycam