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+--- Thread: Pwm (/thread-1768.html)
Pwm - adammac1 - 12-18-2022
Is there away to add more channels for lighting control?
RE: Pwm - Rob F - 12-18-2022
Yeah you can add an extra pca9685 module, this will give you 16 extra 0-5v PWM outputs. It's important to keep the I2C cables to the controller under 12".
https://www.amazon.com/10Gtek-PCA9685-Channel-Arduino-Raspberry/dp/B09MK87TL2?crid=3OFPI4F7JSQ7W&keywords=pca9685&qid=1671427542&sprefix=pca968%2Caps%2C182&sr=8-7&th=1&linkCode=ll1&tag=robotank08-20&linkId=2665f2f22d721f08e7afbf4b7769d2f7&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
If you need 0-10v PWM or Analog outputs you would need to add this as well.
https://www.robo-tank.ca/Arduino-Devices/8-Channel-Digital-to-Analog-Signal-Converter-Kit
RE: Pwm - adammac1 - 12-19-2022
How would I go about setting that up?
RE: Pwm - adammac1 - 12-19-2022
I think I got it. What pins are the i2c?
RE: Pwm - Rob F - 12-19-2022
On the main controller there are 4 header pins, under then it says I2C. That's where you would connected. Then in reef-pi you go to "configuration" then "drivers" and add a new pca9685 driver, you'll have to change the address on the module you get using the solder pads, then scan with i2cdetect -y 1 in SSH terminal to get the new address, this is what you use in reef-pi. After you add the driver you can go to "connectors" tab and add "jacks" using the new driver you added. After this you need to go to "admin" tab and press the "reload" button. Finally you can start adding them to the light tab.
Another option I forgot to mention, are you using all the DC ports, if not do you have enough for extra LED channels? If so you can get 0-5v PWM from the DC backup port, I can explain that if it's enough.
RE: Pwm - adammac1 - 12-20-2022
I ordered the pca9685 so I will wait for it to arrive. I'm sure I'll be back with questions lol.
RE: Pwm - Rob F - 12-20-2022
Great, if you need any help let me know.