Explainers
Protocol Types
Explore the essentials of actuator communication, from simple PWM control to advanced CAN and UAVCAN protocols, catering to diverse applications from basic positioning to complex feedback-driven tasks in industrial and UAV sectors.
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PWM
The conventional method of controlling Hitec actuators, with many advantages for simple tasks. Hitec PWM actuators can be controlled using a pulse width of 900 to 2100µs. The usual control frequency
is 50Hz (20ms), but frequencies up to 330Hz are possible with particular actuator types for special applications.
Actuators with PWM communication can easily be controlled at low cost, and they are adequate for many applications where feedback is not required.
The interface is in widespread use, and many controllers offer suitable presets and libraries. -
RS485 and TTL
There are a number of applications in several fields of operation for which feedback of the actual servo position is required, or at least desirable. Certain Hitec actuators are also available with RS485 and TTL interfaces, which enable them to work with two-way communication (feedback).
Hitec RS485 and TTL actuators communicate with external devices using the half-duplex process. TTL actuators of this type feature just one signal wire in addition to the voltage and earth conductors, whereas RS485 actuators feature two signal wires.
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CAN and UAVCAN
The industrial and UAV field is becoming increasingly significant. This progressive, fast and technically highly complex market demands innovation and reliability. Many applications require intelligent solutions and genuine feedback of position, torque and other parameters in order to assess the application or to gain information about the condition of the components.
The following protocols are available: CAN 2.0A, CAN 2.0B, DRONECAN, UAVCAN