How to Use Servo Motors

Find the servo that meets the needs of the RC vehicle or robot. Consider operating voltage, torque and motor speeds. Servos typically operate between 4 and 6 volts. The motor speed and torque to move the equipment are clearly marked on specifications when purchasing the servo. If you purchase a servo that does not support the torque requirements or motor speeds your servo will not properly work with the RC car or robot.

Verify the control arm that is to be attached to the servo will have adequate space to move once everything is installed. The control arm is connected to the servo and will complete the "work" required of the servo. The setup should also take into account the wiring leads and how they are to be attached. Purchase lead extensions if needed to wire the servo correctly.

Mount the servo to the base of the RC car or robot. O-rings may be required to separate the servo from the base, which is called dampening. Connect all wires with a soldering iron and copper solder. The red wire goes to the power source. Black is the ground wire. The white wire is the control line.

Disconnect the control arm, turn on the system and trim the center for the servo that is being used prior to attaching the control arm. If this step is not completed the servo may not position the control arm as desired since center was not established.

Adjust the control arm and servo settings using the radio control or other controlling device so they function as desired. This may include adjusting the starting trim position. The travel distance the servo travels may also be adjusted for smaller movements from the servo.