Pololu Servo Controller + Arduino (1/3)

I'll make a basic tutorial about how to use the Maestro Servo Controller from Pololu:

- How to move a single servo (Tutorial 2/3)
- How to call a subrutine hosted in the script of the servo controller (multiple servos) (Tutorial 3/3)

The Pololu's Servo controller called "Maestro" is a plate which allows control of different servos, controlling its position as both acceleration and speed.

Depending on the plate there are several versions (6, 12, 18, ​​24) and all are compatible with the free software provided by the brand.

Links:

Web: http://www.pololu.com/

Servo Controllers: http://www.pololu.com/catalog/category/12

User's Guide and specs: http://www.pololu.com/docs/0J40

Parts needed:

- Arduino (I used Arduino UNO R3)

- Pololu Servo Controller (tested in the 12 servo version)

- At least 1 servo.

- A batery pack.

- Wires

As you can see here http://www.pololu.com/docs/0J40/5.e we are going to use "Set Target" command to move the servo, and "Restart Script at Subroutine" at http://www.pololu.com/docs/0J40/5.f.

We can use the compact protocol/pololu protocol and Mini SSC, it's the same but with a diferent command.

Image shows the serial setting tab of the maestro control panel, Mini SSC offset option it's a boolean value (1 indicates NO active, 0 = active), use what you prefer. 

Also just above the "Device Number" is the parameter that you must use in the serial command, you have to converse it to Hexadecimal ("12" in Decimal = "c" in hexa)

Don't forget to conect the TX pin of Arduino (pin 1) to the RX pin of the Maestro!!!!







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