Waveshare DDSM Driver Board (B) based on ESP32 support Wired and Wireless Communication

Recently, Waveshare introduced the DDSM Driver HAT (B), a cutting-edge motor driver made especially to power the DDSM400 hub motors. This compact, high-performance board is built around the ESP32 MCU and provides a variety of control choices, including wired (USB, UART) and wireless (2.4GHz WiFi) communication. Motor control has never been simpler or more adaptable thanks to the DDSM Driver HAT (B). Ideal for robotics projects, especially in mobile robots with 6×6 or 4×4 configurations, this driver is built around an ESP32 MCU and offers a variety of communication options, including wired and wireless.

The Direct Drive Servo Motor Driver HAT (B)'s physical toggle switch, which makes it simple to switch between ESP32 and USB control modes, is one of its best features. When in ESP32 control mode, users may communicate with the board using an integrated web application, which makes it easy to use and compatible with PCs, tablets, and smartphones. In USB control mode, a host computer may send JSON commands to the motor driver over USB, controlling the system.

Specifications:

Wireless MCU:

• ESP32-WROOM-32E by Espressif Systems
• Dual-core Tensilica LX6 microcontroller

Storage:

• 4MB flash memory

Wireless Connectivity:

• 2.4 GHz WiFi and Bluetooth LE
• Built-in PCB antenna

Supported Host Controllers:

• Raspberry Pi 5 or Raspberry Pi 4B 

Control Modes:

• Wired: USB, UART
• Wireless: Web application (Cross-platform support for mobile, tablet, and PC)

Motor Drivers:

• 6-channel onboard motor interfaces (supports up to 6x DDSM400 hub motors)

Host Interface:

• Communication with Raspberry Pi via UART or USB

USB Ports:

• 1x USB-C port for programming the ESP32 module
• 1x USB-C port for controlling HUB motors

Miscellaneous:

• Reset and BOOT buttons

Power Supply:

• 9V to 28V DC via XT60 connector and 5.5 x 2.5mm power jack
• Integrated 5V buck regulator for powering Raspberry Pi

Dimensions:

• PCB Dimensions: 85 x 57 mm
• Mounting Hole Diameter: 3 mm
• Mounting Hole Spacing: 58 x 49 mm

An all-in-one hub motor, the DDSM400 Direct Drive Servo Motor is designed for use in automation systems, robotics, and remote-controlled vehicles. The DDSM400's direct drive design provides zero backlash, low noise, and 99.99% efficiency, making it an excellent option for applications that need accuracy and little wear. With an encoder for real-time position and speed feedback and LIN bus communication for multi-motor control, the motor runs between 100 RPM (rated torque) and 400 RPM (no load).

Waveshare offers a variety of software and tools for controlling the DDSM400 hub motors. Firmware that can be operated via wired connections or web applications using JSON instructions is pre-installed on the motor driver. Users can change control modes, establish motor IDs, activate or disable motors, and modify motor speed with these instructions. Users can upload custom firmware to the ESP32 for more sophisticated control. Additionally, the board has Python scripts for extra control and serial debugging, and it supports ESP-NOW for remote connection. For more information, visit the wiki page. 

You can buy the product for $31.99 on Amazon and $22.60 on AliExpress. The DDSM400 hub motors are available on AliExpress for $27.89 or Amazon for $37.99 if you need them. Both platforms additionally include extra suspension kits for the hub motors. Waveshare's DDSM Driver HAT (B) is a flexible and effective solution for robotics projects that need direct drive servo motor control. It is a great option for anybody wishing to incorporate accurate and powerful motor control into their robotics projects because of its wired and wireless control choices, support for numerous motors, and compatibility with Raspberry Pi platforms.