Compatibility

• Works with Arduino boards (Uno, Nano, Mega, etc.) via I²C (SDA/SCL).

• Fully compatible with ESP32, ESP32‑S3, and ESP32‑C6 boards at 3.3 V logic; the PCA9685 inputs are typically tolerant up to around 5–5.5 V.

• Compatible with Raspberry Pi and other Linux SBCs using the I²C interface (perfect for robotics projects).

• Supports most 3.3 V or 5 V microcontrollers that provide I²C; only two pins (SDA, SCL) are needed to control all 16 PWM outputs.

• Key Features

  • 16‑channel, 12‑bit PWM driver – provides high‑resolution pulse control for servos and LEDs.

  • I²C‑controlled – only two data lines needed to manage all outputs, leaving more pins free on your MCU.

  • Built‑in clock – runs PWM independently once configured; no continuous updates required from the microcontroller.

  • Adjustable PWM frequency up to around 1.6 kHz; 50–60 Hz is typical for hobby servos.

  • Chainable design – 6 address pins allow up to 62 modules on one I²C bus (up to 992 total channels for large servo/LED arrays).

  • 5 V‑compliant outputs – can be driven from a 3.3 V microcontroller while safely switching up to around 5–6 V on the servo/LED power rail (V+).

  • Dedicated power input for servos (V+ terminal block or header), so high‑current loads don’t stress your microcontroller’s regulator.

  • Suitable as both a servo controller and a multi‑channel LED dimmer.

  • Technical Specs (Typical)

    Values may vary slightly between manufacturers; check your specific module:

    • Controller IC: PCA9685, 16‑channel 12‑bit PWM driver.

    • Interface: I²C (Fast‑mode Plus capable, up to around 1 MHz in many designs).

    • MCU logic voltage: typically 3.3 V or 5 V compatible for SDA/SCL inputs.

    • PWM supply (V+): around 2.3–5.5 V typical for servos/LEDs on most breakout designs.

    • PWM frequency: adjustable up to ~1.6 kHz.

    • Resolution: 12‑bit (4096 steps) per channel.

    • Outputs: 16 channels, each supporting around 25 mA (for LEDs; servos draw power from V+, not through the PCA chip itself).

    • Address range: 0x40–0x7F using address pins to select unique addresses when chaining modules.

    • Ideal Uses

      • Robotics – control multiple servo joints in robot arms, quadrupeds, hexapods, and pan‑tilt rigs.

      • Animatronics – coordinated servo movement for props, displays, and interactive installations.

      • LED control – multi‑channel LED dimming, RGB/RGBA control, and light shows.

      • Home automation and IoT – driving servo‑based valves, vents, or mechanical indicators from a single controller.

      • Educational projects – demonstrating I²C, PWM, and multi‑axis motion control in microcontroller courses.

      • What’s Included

        • 1 × PCA9685 16‑Channel PWM Servo Driver Module

        • (Variants may also include) terminal block for V+ power, pin headers for servo outputs and I²C connection, depending on the specific supplier design.
          

        Safety Note

        • The PCA9685 module does not regulate servo power voltage; always supply a suitable servo voltage (commonly 5–6 V) on V+ and ensure it matches your servos’ specifications.

        • Servos can draw significant current; use an external power supply sized appropriately, and always share a common ground between the servo supply and your microcontroller.

        • Avoid powering servos directly from a microcontroller’s USB or on‑board regulator, as this can cause resets or damage due to over‑current.

        • Double‑check I²C wiring (SDA/SCL) and module orientation before powering the system to prevent short circuits or bus conflicts.