16 Channel PWM Servo Control Board

SKU: Z6493
This 16 Channel PCA9685 PWM Servo Control Board is a versatile module that allows you to control up to 16 servos using only 2 pins via I2C communication.
$22.68

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Bulk Pricing
ea $22.68
2+ $19.95
4+ $18.14
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Overview

This 16 Channel PWM Servo Control Board is a versatile module that allows you to control up to 16 servos using only 2 pins via I2C communication. Whether you’re building a robot, animatronic project, or any application that requires precise servo control, the PCA9685 16-Channel Servo Driver is an excellent choice. It simplifies servo management and frees up valuable pins on your microcontroller. 

Features

  • The PCA9685 offers 16 fully programmable PWM outputs with a 12-bit resolution, providing 4096 steps for precise duty cycle adjustments on each channel.
  • The module uses the I2C bus for communication, ensuring easy integration with microcontrollers like Arduino or Raspberry Pi.
  • Supports frequency control across all 16 channels, programmable between 24Hz and 1526Hz.
  • The duty cycle (pulse width) can be fine-tuned from 0% to 100% for accurate output control.
  • The on-board PWM controller manages all 16 channels independently, reducing processing load on the microcontroller compared to direct pin-based servo control.
  • Multiple modules can be daisy-chained together. With up to 62 boards on a single I2C bus, you can control up to 992 servos using just two pins.

 


Specifications

General:

Dimensions: Without headers or terminal block: 2.5 x 25.4 x 3mm

Weight Without headers or terminal block: 5.5g

Weight With 3x4 headers and terminal block: 9g

Built-in Clock: Free-running PWM driver, eliminating the need for continuous microcontroller signals

Output Control: Output enable pin for quickly disabling all outputs

LED: Green power-good LED for easy diagnostics

Space: Ideal for adding a large capacitor on the V+ line to stabilize power input

Power Input:

Terminal block with reverse polarity protection

Optional 0.1" breakout pins for flexible power connection

I2C Interface:

7-bit address range: 0x60–0x80, selectable with solder jumpers

Connects to microcontrollers (e.g., Arduino) with 4 lines; 5V -> VCC, GND -> GND, SDA (data) and SCL (clock)

PWM Outputs:

16 channels with 3-pin connectors grouped in sets of 4

Each output includes 220-ohm series resistors for protection and easy LED control

Configurable as push-pull or open-drain output

PWM Resolution and Frequency:

12-bit resolution per channel (4096 steps)

Adjustable PWM frequency up to 1.6 KHz

~4µs resolution at a 60Hz update rate (ideal for servos)

Addressable and Chainable:

Features 6 address select pins

Supports daisy-chaining of up to 62 boards on a single I2C bus

Total of 992 outputs can be controlled (ideal for large servo or LED projects)

Voltage Compatibility:

5V compliant: Safe to use with 3.3V microcontrollers while driving outputs up to 6V

Supports LEDs with higher forward voltages (e.g., white or blue LEDs at 3.4V+)

Details

Products specifications

Warranty 12 Months

Warranty

WARRANTY

We offer 12 Months warranty on this product from its date of purchase. This is available from Altronics stores, online purchases or Altronics resellers. In accordance with our full warranty terms we will repair, replace or refund if goods you have purchased from us are defective.

30 DAY MONEY BACK GUARANTEE

Not withstanding our warranty policy, if you are dissatisfied with our goods or service you may return the goods within 30 days of our despatch date. Simply contact us for a return authorisation number and we will refund your purchase in full, less transport costs on receipt of goods. All returned goods must be in as sold condition including all packaging, instructions, invoices etc.