Using Linear Actuators with RoboClaw

Linear actuators with position feedback are a common part of robotics projects. This Application Note covers wiring one to a RoboClaw motor controller, tuning closed loop position control in Motion Studio, and commanding positions from an Arduino.

Understanding Acceleration and Deceleration Values

The acceleration and deceleration values used in Motion Studio and the software libraries can be understood as raw values, percentages, and time. This guide explains the two unit systems, duty units per second for duty commands and QPPS per second for speed commands, and how to convert between the different views.

Motor Controller Selection

The three motor specifications that determine the right motor controller: voltage, running current, and stall current, plus how to estimate stall current and size a RoboClaw around it.