Cytron Technical Forum

Hello,

For the Maker Pi RP2040, I see that the max VIN voltage is 6V. I have had a cursory look at the other power components like the motor driver and boost converter and see no reason for the limit of 6V. I know that most of the cheap servo motors used are 6V, but there are 7.4v motors as well. I want to drive a bot with 7.4v DC for the motors. Is there a "hard" limit of 6V or is it just an advisory?

Thanks.

Yup, the 6V limit is merely for the servo motor. The maximum Vin will be 9.6V without considering the servo motor.

The Maker Pi RP2040 board specifies a maximum VIN voltage of 6V in its documentation. This voltage limit is typically set to ensure the safe operation of the board and its components. While it may be possible to exceed this voltage in some cases, doing so could potentially damage the board or its components.
The reason for the 6V limit might be due to the voltage ratings of specific components used on the board, such as voltage regulators, motor drivers, or other integrated circuits. These components may have certain voltage tolerances, and exceeding those limits could cause them to malfunction or fail.
While you may find servo motors that operate at 7.4V, it's important to note that the voltage specified for the Maker Pi RP2040 board is a guideline to ensure proper and safe operation. Exceeding the recommended voltage can void warranties and may lead to unpredictable behavior or damage. Candy Crush
If you want to drive motors with a higher voltage, such as 7.4V, you should consider using external motor drivers or other power management solutions that are designed to handle higher voltages. This way, you can ensure compatibility and protect the board from potential damage.

Hello,

The stated max VIN voltage of 6V for the Maker Pi RP2040 is typically a recommended or advisory limit. Exceeding this limit could potentially lead to damage or malfunctions, especially if the components and circuits on the board are not designed to handle higher voltages. It's crucial to adhere to these guidelines to ensure the safe and reliable operation of the board.

If you intend to use a 7.4V power source for your motors, it's advisable to incorporate a voltage regulator or a level-shifting circuit to step down the voltage to the safe operating range of the Maker Pi RP2040. This will help protect the board and ensure it functions as intended without any potential risks.

Always follow the manufacturer's recommendations to prevent any unwanted issues when working with electronics.