Servo Controlled Points

  • Thread starter Thread starter GAP
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Just spotted this on evilbay :)

 
Just spotted this on evilbay :)

Now that is interesting - looks like it's 3D printed as well .....

Rik
 

 
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I am thinking of some type of RC points and servo is one option, I assume if I have 3 points close together I could use a single Rx to control the 3 servos :)
You certainly can..
Just remember you will need power for the receiver and servo's..

PhilP
 
Power to the Rx I assume would around 5 volts dc, but I thought the power to the servo would be via the 3 pin plug into the servo.
It is (normally) especially if everything is local..
However, it is possible to run a single 'control' wire, to more remote locations, with a locally derived power supply. - For example, something derived from a solar garden light.

PhilP
 
It is (normally) especially if everything is local..
However, it is possible to run a single 'control' wire, to more remote locations, with a locally derived power supply. - For example, something derived from a solar garden light.

PhilP
Hm that sounds good, points that only work in the sun. Currently cloudy and I am looking at 3 solar powered pumps totally inactive just now. However possibly with a back up battery charged via the solar cells when working may be fine.
 
It is (normally) especially if everything is local..
However, it is possible to run a single 'control' wire, to more remote locations, with a locally derived power supply.
Phil, I assume that is the top "signal" wire :)

For example, something derived from a solar garden light.
That would only work for people who are "fair weather" modellers - oh, that'll be me :)
 
Phil, I assume that is the top "signal" wire :)


That would only work for people who are "fair weather" modellers - oh, that'll be me :)
Yes, the 'top' signal wire..

I would make the installation such that the electronics could be switched off between sessions.. Leaving the solar charging circuit active.

Even low standby current, combined with a little damp, is enough to cause pcb tracks to disappear, over time.

PhilP
 
I used a small solar panel connected via a charge controller to a 12V 5AHr sealed lead acid battery, output is via a 5V buck converter.
Power 24/7 to a 5V main power line that I just tap off where required.

Described in first part of this
 
Note: The VOLTAGE requirement! Exceed 4.8V at your own risk!
Dont forget the voltage drop in long (and thin) cables.
With 5v input in the beginning of the cable, after 10 meters you can have not even 4v left.
While 4.8v can be to much an a 8inch/20cm cable but after ten meters it can be to little voltage left
With best regards Igor

ps small side note: those chineesium volt meters are really good but check if they are tru on volt, it happens that there is a 0.2v difference between them and your meter.
 
I am thinking of some type of RC points and servo is one option, I assume if I have 3 points close together I could use a single Rx to control the 3 servos :)
Bit late in replying Jimmy I am running 2 servos off the one tester as part of a crossover.
I have added another to drive a signal as an experiment and no issue with all 3 moving at the same time (there are 3 outputs on each tester).
 
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Dont forget the voltage drop in long (and thin) cables.
With 5v input in the beginning of the cable, after 10 meters you can have not even 4v left.
While 4.8v can be to much an a 8inch/20cm cable but after ten meters it can be to little voltage left
With best regards Igor

ps small side note: those chineesium volt meters are really good but check if they are tru on volt, it happens that there is a 0.2v difference between them and your meter.
Igor,
At present the furthest tester on my layout is 11 metres from the power source and works perfectly.
 
I have now identified an issue with the horns on my servos (with the help of a 6yo boy who touched when told not to) they are deteriorating in the sun, did a quick search on the net and have found some stl file to 3D print replacements.
I am using PLA filament and it is standing up to the UV very well, I have had 2 pieces glued together with "plastic magic" pieces lying in the experiment area for over 3 months and they are showing no sign of deterioration.
 
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