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IndustryArena Forum > CNC Electronics > Gecko Drives > Resistor for unknown nema 23
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  1. #1
    Join Date
    Aug 2018
    Posts
    29

    Resistor for unknown nema 23

    is it possible to guess the resistor value for a G540 if the steppers are unknown nema 23?
    hobby machine, limited use, would I be better off just letting em run hot?
    Bob

  2. #2
    Join Date
    Aug 2005
    Posts
    1091

    Re: Resistor for unknown nema 23

    Hi Bob
    If is better to run them at there rated current. If they are overdriven the excess heat can eventually damage the motor. Also you will get better speed performance by not overdriving them.
    Do the motors have any markings on them as you may be able to determine the rated current from that?
    Also what is the length of the motor body? That will determine if it is a single or double stack motor.
    The shorter single stack motors don’t usually draw more than 2.8A. So that may help.
    Consider using a set of these DB-9 breakout boards. They allow you to easily set the current without having to solder in resistors as they have an inbuilt adjustable potentiometer.

    https://www.homanndesigns.com/index....roducts_id=111

    Cheers
    Peter


    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro
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    Homann Designs - http://www.homanndesigns.com/store

  3. #3
    Join Date
    May 2005
    Posts
    1662

    Re: Resistor for unknown nema 23

    Buying a known set of motors would be a better bet than suboptimal performance and even possible damage. I seem to remember Gecko mentioning the resistors must be used with some motors though that may not mean possible damage to the G540 itself.

    If you measure the resistance of a motor coil it may be possible to search for a motor with the same resistance as well as length and weight. My guess is the amps will be close to the motor you have. BUT that is a guess and I'm an idiot where electrons are involved.
    Anyone who says "It only goes together one way" has no imagination.

  4. #4
    Join Date
    Aug 2005
    Posts
    1091

    Re: Resistor for unknown nema 23

    You don’t need the resistors, but if they are not used, the G540 will deliver the 3.5A to the motor.
    Additionally, the drive won’t drop the current to the motor when it is idle.
    Cheers
    Peter.


    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro
    -------------------------------------------------
    Homann Designs - http://www.homanndesigns.com/store

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