Max current for multiple steppers

J

Joulz

Member
Hi,

im building a project with 4 X27 steppers (datasheet) and a Teensy 4.1

Multiple online examples for the X27 stepper just connect it directly to Arduino pins, but I am not sure if that works with the Teensy 4.1 regarding the max output of the digital output pins (4mA specified here).

My question is whether I can connect the steppers directly or if I should use a driver board like A4988.
Is it a problem to use 4 steppers simultaneously (on seperate pins) regarding the power output?

Thanks already for any hints.
 
I strongly recommend using some sort of driver board. A Teensy 4.1 cannot directly drive a stepper motor. Also, many stepper motors take voltages that will destroy a Teensy 4.x. I use an opto-coupled stepper driver so that there's no chance of harming my Teensy. To drive the opto-coupler I use a single 2N2222A style transistor. I use resistors to limit the current that the Teensy needs to provide, as well as a resistor to set the opto's LED current to the recommended drive level. All of this is to prevent the Teensy from ever contacting my +48V stepper motor and supply.
 
The T4 pins cannot supply 5V, nor 20mA. I'm not sure it would be possible to set an A4988 to as small an output current as 20mA, you'd risk burning out the X27 coils that way. A 5V logic buffer chip whose inputs are 3.3V compatible and outputs can handle 20mA is a good choice for this very low current motor.
 
Thx, i will use an external power supply for the motors.

I ended up using an L293D, but i have not tested it yet.
 
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