The jrk 21v3 motor controller is a highly configurable brushed DC motor controller that supports four interface modes: USB, logic-level serial, analog voltage, and hobby radio control (RC).

Description ^[Hide]

Like the Jrk 12v12, the JRK 21v3 is a very well thought-out motor controller. It's like a little brother - similar characteristics, but not quite as strong. It's ideal for small motors. Nice work, Pololu!

Where the 12v12 is rated 16V and 12A continuous output, the 21v3 is rated 28V and 3A. Almost every other feature of the 12v12 implemented in the 21v3 (the exception being the current sensor being 0.5V per amp).

Main points of interest:

5 to 28 VDC power input
3A with 5A surge current rating
Can be controlled via:
- USB
- PWM (servo remote control style)
- Analog joystick/potentiometer
Optional Feedback control via:
- 0-5V analog input
- Frequency signal (like a tachometer)
Calibrate with USB interface to Windows software
Configure feedback loops via software with control over
- PID period & constants. (Proportional / Integral / Derivative - embedded!)
- Error response
- Learning calibration for RC / Analog interfaces
- Programmable maximum
  - Current
  - Duty cycle
  - Acceleration

WOW - that's a huge bundle of features for a compact unit measuring only 1.35" x 1.35" x 0.4"!

So what make is so superior to other models of motor driver units?

Control the motor via a PC's USB port (as simulated serial interface)
Ultrasonic PWM to eliminate switching-induced motor shaft hum or whine.
Robust, high-speed communication protocol with user-configurable error condition response.
12-bit resolution (that's 4096 levels) for smooth and flexible calibration to various input and feedback devices.
Current sensing and limiting.
Reversed power protection.
Field-upgradeable firmware.

The only serious limit to this unit is that it is a single motor driver. Not dual. So if you want to drive a robot, you'll need one of these per motor. But with this feature set, it'll be very easy to work with!

Specifications:

Motor channels:	1
Operating voltage:	5 – 28 V
Continuous output current:	3 A
Peak output current:	5 A
Auto-detect baud rate range:	300 – 115,200 bps
Available fixed baud rates:	300 – 115,200 bps
Available PWM frequencies:	20 kHz, 5 kHz
Reverse voltage protection?:	Yes
USB connector style:	USB Mini-B

Included Hardware:

The jrk ships with a 14×1 straight 0.100" male header strip and two 5mm, 2-pin terminal blocks. To provide maximum flexibility, none of these parts are soldered to the board.

For the most compact installation, you can solder wires directly to the jrk pads themselves and skip using the included hardware. The included hardware allows you to make less permanent connections. You can break the 14×1 header strip into an 8×1 piece and two 3×1 pieces and solder these strips into the jrk’s I/O pads.

Note: USB cable not included.

Documentation ^[Hide]

[Documentation]: Pololu Jrk USB Motor Controller User's Guide
[Support Software]: Drivers & Config Utility for JRK 21v3 and 12v12

You Might Also Like ^[Hide]

52645

OpenBeam Feet - 2 Pack

Feet to fit OpenBeam extrusions, keep your desk scratch free!

$2.20 USD

32010

Motor Mind BE 3A Serial Motor Controller

Here is a motor controller that only needs 2 lines for control, it communicates serially via 2400 or 9600 Baud TTL signals. It's a smart controller that has a number of parameters that can be adjusted and can return valuable data such as speed & position.

$29.99 USD