mLink (I2C) 12 Channel Servo Controller

The mLink 12-Channel Servo Controller allows you to independently control up to 12 servos per module via a microcontroller's serial I²C interface. It supports standard PWM-controlled servos from popular brands like Tower Pro, Futaba, JR, Hitec, Emax, and more.





Servo Connection Features

  - 12 Headers: Each servo connects to a dedicated 3-pin header (0.1” pitch) providing:
  - GND
  - 5V power
  - PWM signal
External Power Support: External 5V power for servos can be supplied via a screw terminal for increased current handling.

PWM Control Capabilities

  - Independent Channels: Generates 12 unique PWM signals.
  - 20 ms Duty Cycle: Each signal is refreshed every 20 ms.
  - On-Time Range: PWM on-time adjustable between 10 µs and 2.55 ms, divided into 256 steps.
  - Servo Precision: For standard servos (requiring 1 to 2 ms on-time), this provides up to 100 steps of resolution per servo, 
    ensuring smooth and accurate movement.

mLink I²C Interface

  - Microcontroller Compatibility: Works with any microcontroller or development board with an I²C interface.
  - Expandable System: Part of the mLink ecosystem, allowing seamless daisy-chaining with other mLink modules 
    (e.g., LCD displays, keypads, sensors, relays) through a single I²C connection.
  - Simple Software Integration: Only one compact library is needed to control the entire mLink system.

Arduino & Raspberry Pi Support

  - Arduino: A dedicated mLink library simplifies servo control with intuitive functions.
  - Raspberry Pi: A Python module is available for easy integration.
  - Resources: Examples and library links are provided to help you get started quickly.

This controller offers a robust, scalable, and user-friendly solution for projects involving multiple servos.


Module Specifications

Module code:				HCMODU0263
Module supply voltage:		        4.5V to 5.5V (via mLink header)
Supply current (module only):	        4.6mA (normal) ~300uA (sleep)
Number of servo outputs:		12
Servo output type:			PWM
Servo duty cycle:			20ms
Servo PWM on time (min):		10µs
Servo PWM on time (max):		2.55ms
Servo step resolution:		        10µs
Servo interface:			12x 3-pin 0.1” pitch pin header (PWM, 5V, GND)
Servo supply input:			5V @ 5A max via screw terminal
I²C Interface speed:			400kbits/s (fast mode)
I²C default address (HEX):		0x60
Maximum number of modules:	        5 with pullups fitted, 112 with pullups removed*
Module dimensions:			52mm x 21.5mm x 11.5mm (excluding headers)

*Note the maximum number of connected modules will depend on cable lengths and power requirements of each module. Do not exceed 5 mLink modules connected in series with I2C pullups fitted to all modules. For disconnecting pullups see forum post.

For more information including examples and links to the Arduino mLink library / Raspberry Pi module please see the product forum thread here