This 16 Channel PWM Servo Control Board is a versatile module that allows you to control up to 16 servos using only 2 pins via I2C communication. Whether you’re building a robot, animatronic project, or any application that requires precise servo control, the PCA9685 16-Channel Servo Driver is an excellent choice. It simplifies servo management and frees up valuable pins on your microcontroller.
Features
- The PCA9685 offers 16 fully programmable PWM outputs with a 12-bit resolution, providing 4096 steps for precise duty cycle adjustments on each channel.
- The module uses the I2C bus for communication, ensuring easy integration with microcontrollers like Arduino or Raspberry Pi.
- Supports frequency control across all 16 channels, programmable between 24Hz and 1526Hz.
- The duty cycle (pulse width) can be fine-tuned from 0% to 100% for accurate output control.
- The on-board PWM controller manages all 16 channels independently, reducing processing load on the microcontroller compared to direct pin-based servo control.
- Multiple modules can be daisy-chained together. With up to 62 boards on a single I2C bus, you can control up to 992 servos using just two pins.
Specifications
General:
Dimensions: Without headers or terminal block: 2.5 x 25.4 x 3mm
Weight Without headers or terminal block: 5.5g
Weight With 3x4 headers and terminal block: 9g
Built-in Clock: Free-running PWM driver, eliminating the need for continuous microcontroller signals
Output Control: Output enable pin for quickly disabling all outputs
LED: Green power-good LED for easy diagnostics
Space: Ideal for adding a large capacitor on the V+ line to stabilize power input
Power Input:
Terminal block with reverse polarity protection
Optional 0.1" breakout pins for flexible power connection
I2C Interface:
7-bit address range: 0x60–0x80, selectable with solder jumpers
Connects to microcontrollers (e.g., Arduino) with 4 lines; 5V -> VCC, GND -> GND, SDA (data) and SCL (clock)
PWM Outputs:
16 channels with 3-pin connectors grouped in sets of 4
Each output includes 220-ohm series resistors for protection and easy LED control
Configurable as push-pull or open-drain output
PWM Resolution and Frequency:
12-bit resolution per channel (4096 steps)
Adjustable PWM frequency up to 1.6 KHz
~4µs resolution at a 60Hz update rate (ideal for servos)
Addressable and Chainable:
Features 6 address select pins
Supports daisy-chaining of up to 62 boards on a single I2C bus
Total of 992 outputs can be controlled (ideal for large servo or LED projects)
Voltage Compatibility:
5V compliant: Safe to use with 3.3V microcontrollers while driving outputs up to 6V
Supports LEDs with higher forward voltages (e.g., white or blue LEDs at 3.4V+)
