CS-STEM Network

Relays: High and Low Signals (Part 1)

Mini Project Powering a motor (Part 1)

In this project, the circuit will not work as expected! We will connect a motor to the Arduino Uno to see if we can make the motors move.

Block Diagram: Motor connected to Arduino

Required items and tools

Find the following components in your kit:

Arduino Uno
Arduino Software
USB A-to-B cable
Computer with USB port
6V Motor with two leads

Step 1: Connect Motor to Arduino

Connect the two leads of the motor to the Arduino Uno. The red lead should go to Port 13, and the black lead should go to GND.

Step 2: Power the Arduino

Connect the Arduino to your computer using the USB A-to-B cable.

Step 3: Set the Board to Uno

Open up the Arduino software, and go to the Tools menu and select Board < "Arduino/Genuino Uno". This lets the Arduino software know which Arduino board you are using (there are several types!).

Step 4: Open Blink Program

On the menu bar, select “Open”, and in “01. Basic”, select “Blink”.

Step 5: Upload the Program

Click on the Upload button to upload the “Blink” program to the Arduino Uno.

What happens?

Nothing. The motor does not move!

Explanation

The motor does not move in this circuit because there is not enough Voltage or Amperage (current) to power the 6 Volt motor. The Arudino is capable of producing 3.3V and 5V. The 5V is the max the Arduino is able to provide and it is unable to power this motor.

In the next lesson, we will use something called a Relay to get power from an outside source to power the motor.

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Relays: High and Low Signals (Part 1)

Mini Project Powering a motor (Part 1)

What happens?

Explanation