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THE PICAXE 18 MICROCONTROLLER AND TRANSDUCER MODULE

V. Ryan © 2005 - 2010

 

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The outputs of a PIC Microcontroller are rated at 3 volts. This will drive solar motors and other low powered motors/devices that are normally powerful enough for school projects. If a more powerful motor or a solenoid is required it is usual for a ULN2803A driver to be added to the microcontroller circuit. However, a transducer module can be used as an alternative. One example of a transducer driver is the power transistor circuit and a secondary power source shown below.

   

   

 
The high power transistor TIP 31A is ideal for this circuit. The connections are shown above. A motor, solenoid or other output device can be connected. Normally a 9 volts secondary power source is used, especially for school projects.
 

 

 
 

QUESTIONS:

1. Is there an advantage to using the transducer driver shown above compared to using the ULN2803A driver chip?

   

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