C10: Arduino / RPi Pico Advanced – Actuator Interfacing

Aim:
To identify, observe, and understand the applications of different actuators.

Requirements:

  • Arduino or Raspberry Pi Pico

  • Small DC motor

  • Servo motor

  • Piezo buzzer

  • Relay module (optional)

  • Jumperxxxxxxx wires

Procedure

  1. Arrange the Components

    • Place all actuators on a table for easy observation.

  2. Observe Physical Features

    • Look for size, shape, and moving parts in each actuator.

    • For example: Servo motors have a small rotating arm, DC motors have a spinning shaft.

  3. Watch Demos or Run Simple Tests

    • Connect each actuator to the Arduino/Pico (or watch a short video demonstration).

    • Make the DC motor spin, move the servo to different angles, or beep the buzzer.

  4. Identify Their Applications

    • Discuss where each actuator might be used:

      • Servo → camera movement

      • DC motor → toy car wheels

      • Buzzer → alarm system

      • Relay → turning on a fan remotely

  5. Record Your Observations
    Note the motion type, speed, precision, and possible uses for each actuator.
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