KEYESTUDIO Micro bit 16-channel PCA9685PW SERVO Shield

The KEYESTUDIO 16-channel PCA9685PW SERVO Shield is an expansion board designed to help BBC micro:bit users drive multiple servo motors simultaneously. It is ideal for students, educators, and hobbyists building complex robotics projects that require more power and IO pins than the micro:bit can provide on its own.

Overcome micro:bit power limitations

The standard BBC micro:bit outputs a 3.3V voltage with a very small driving current, which is insufficient for running multiple 5V servo motors. This shield solves the problem by integrating a PCA9685PW chip that communicates via I2C to control up to 16 servos.

Standardised GVS headers

Each of the 16 channels is extended to a 3-pin GVS header with a 2.54mm pitch for easy and secure wiring. The voltage of the V pin on the shield is set to 5V to match standard servo requirements.

Flexible power input options

You can power the shield using either a Micro USB connector for a 5V DC input or via the two green terminal blocks which accept a 7-12V DC input. This flexibility allows you to choose the best power source for your specific project needs.

Golden edge connectors

The board features eight golden edge connectors, allowing you to easily connect additional circuits, sensors, or hardware modules to the BBC micro:bit's edge connector or the 3.3V output pin.

Power considerations for multiple servos

While a standard servo has a no-load current of approximately 220mA, a Micro USB power source can only handle up to 2A. If you need to drive all 16 servos simultaneously, you should use the terminal block input rather than the Micro USB port.

Compact and precise PWM control

Measuring just 63mm by 43mm and weighing 18.6g, this compact shield provides 16-channel PWM output with a frequency range of 40 to 1000Hz. It offers a lightweight and space-saving solution for multi-servo robotic assemblies.