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1. What is a micro servo, and how does it differ from a standard servo?

A micro servo is a miniaturized actuator designed for precise angular positioning in space-constrained projects. While a standard servo (like the MG996R) typically weighs around 55g, a micro servo (like the ubiquitous SG90) usually weighs between 9g and 12g. Despite their small size, they operate on the same principle of Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) to control the position of the output shaft.

2. What is the typical operating voltage for a micro servo?

Most micro servos are designed to operate within a range of 4.8V to 6.0V.

• 4.8V: Provides lower torque and speed but is safer for basic battery packs.

• 6.0V: Maximizes the servo’s torque and transit speed. Running a micro servo above 6V is generally not recommended unless it is specifically rated as a “High Voltage” (HV) servo, as it can burn out the internal motor or control circuitry.

3. What is the difference between plastic gears and metal gears?

Micro servos are commonly available in two gear-train configurations:

• Plastic Gears (e.g., SG90): Lightweight and inexpensive. These are ideal for light-duty tasks like moving camera flaps or small robotic arms. However, they can “strip” (break teeth) if the servo hits an obstacle or carries too much weight.

• Metal Gears (e.g., MG90S): Slightly heavier but significantly more durable. They are preferred for applications involving physical impact or higher resistance, such as the steering mechanism in an RC car.

4. How do I control a micro servo using a microcontroller?

Micro servos use a three-wire interface:

1. GND (Black/Brown): Ground.

2. VCC (Red): Power supply.

3. Signal (Yellow/Orange/White): PWM input.

The controller sends a PWM signal with a frequency of 50Hz (a 20ms period). The width of the pulse determines the angle:

• 1.0ms pulse: 0 degrees.

• 1.5ms pulse: 90 degrees (neutral).

• 2.0ms pulse: 180 degrees.

5. Can a micro servo rotate a full 360 degrees?

Standard micro servos are limited-rotation devices, typically moving between 0° and 180°. They contain a physical mechanical stop and a potentiometer to provide position feedback. However, you can purchase continuous rotation micro servos. These have had the physical stop and feedback loop removed, allowing them to rotate 360° indefinitely. In this case, the PWM signal controls the speed and direction of rotation rather than the specific angle.

6. Why is my micro servo “jittering” or shaking?

Jittering is a common issue caused by three main factors:

• Insufficient Power: Micro servos can draw high current spikes (stall current) when they start moving. If your power source (like an Arduino’s 5V pin) cannot provide enough current, the voltage drops, causing the servo to reset or shake.

• Signal Noise: Long wires or interference can distort the PWM signal.

• Mechanical Load: If the servo is trying to reach an angle it cannot physically achieve due to an obstruction, it will vibrate as it struggles to overcome the resistance.