How to Control Stepper Motor with Microcontroller?

[Mark Markus]

Stepper motors are a commonly used motor type, usually used in applications that require precise control of position and direction, such as robots, automation equipment, and printers. A microcontroller is an integrated circuit used to control various electronic devices. The following will introduce how to use a microcontroller to control a stepper motor.

1. Connection method

The connection between the microcontroller and the stepper motor needs to be established through connection. Generally speaking, the control terminals of the stepper motor (such as A+, A-, B+, B-) need to be connected to the GPIO pins of the microcontroller respectively. These pins need to be set to output mode. At the same time, the motor's power supply (usually DC power supply) needs to be connected to the motor power terminal.

2. Control method

Single-chip microcomputer control stepper motors usually use pulse signal control. When the microcontroller outputs a high-level pulse, the motor will rotate at a certain angle. The frequency and direction of the pulses can be controlled by program.

3. Algorithm

Microcontroller control of stepper motors requires the use of algorithms, usually using timed interrupt control algorithms. This algorithm can control the frequency and direction of the pulse and provide sufficient current to the motor so that the motor can work stably.

4. Steps

4.1 Initialization: Set the pin to output mode and set the motor power supply.

4.2 Send pulse signals: Send high-level pulse signals to control the motor to rotate at a certain angle.

4.3 Delay: Delay as needed and wait for the motor to complete rotation.

4.4 Reverse rotation: If you need to reverse the motor, you can change the direction of the pulse signal.

5. Frequently Asked Questions

1. The stepper motor does not work: It may be that the motor is not powered, or the pins are not connected correctly. Need to check the power supply and connection method.

2. Wrong direction: It may be that the motor does not have positive and negative polarity judgment, or the pulse direction is set incorrectly in the program. The program and motor control method need to be checked.

3. The motor is noisy: It may be that the motor power supply voltage is unstable or the motor control method is incorrect. It is necessary to add a capacitor filter or optimize the program control method.