{"id":5394,"date":"2019-01-19T10:10:19","date_gmt":"2019-01-19T15:10:19","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/dronebotworkshop.com\/?p=5394"},"modified":"2019-06-24T14:07:48","modified_gmt":"2019-06-24T18:07:48","slug":"wifi-stepper-motor-controller","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/dronebotworkshop.com\/wifi-stepper-motor-controller\/","title":{"rendered":"WiFi Stepper Motor Controller"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Introduction<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">I received a request from one of my viewers who has created a product, a Wifi Stepper motor controller that he is promoting using crowdfunding. \u00a0After viewing the crowdfunding page I readily agreed to test and review it. The following article and its accompanying video are the results of my evaluation.<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"youtube-player\" data-id=\"3CSEmAAK7VM\"><\/div>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">WiFi Stepper<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Wifi Stepper was developed by Andrew Klofas of Good Robotics. \u00a0It is currently being <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.crowdsupply.com\/good-robotics\/wi-fi-stepper\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">crowdfunded on the Crowd Supply fundraising platform<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-5402\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dronebotworkshop.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/WiFi-Stepper-Motor-Controller.jpeg?resize=750%2C422&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"WiFi Stepper Motor Controller\" width=\"750\" height=\"422\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dronebotworkshop.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/WiFi-Stepper-Motor-Controller.jpeg?w=768&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dronebotworkshop.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/WiFi-Stepper-Motor-Controller.jpeg?resize=300%2C169&amp;ssl=1 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Wifi Stepper has several impressive features:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Supports bipolar stepper motors rated at up to 85 volts at 10 amperes.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Complete wireless control over WiFi.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Has a full-featured web-based user interface.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Has a JSON API to allow control using a script on a remote computer.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Several security features to secure your installation.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Supports Current and Voltage control.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Allows a stepper motor to emulate a servo motor.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Can use an external step clock source.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Supports an external stop and reverse switch.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">UART Serial Port.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">I2C Bus connection.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">10-bit Analog to Digital Converter input.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This module is perfect for IoT, robotics, home automation, and other projects where running control connections to the stepper motor controller would be impractical. The web-based interface simplifies both controlling the stepper motor and writing Bash and Python scripts.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-5399\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dronebotworkshop.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/WiFi-Stepper-Controller-Board.jpg?resize=750%2C422&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"WiFi Stepper Controller Board\" width=\"750\" height=\"422\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dronebotworkshop.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/WiFi-Stepper-Controller-Board.jpg?w=768&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dronebotworkshop.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/WiFi-Stepper-Controller-Board.jpg?resize=300%2C169&amp;ssl=1 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Internal Components<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The WiFi Stepper consists of four key components:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">ESP8266 WiFi controller.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">powerSTEP01 stepper motor driver.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Microchip ATECC508A crypto-authentication module.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Maxim MAX15062 high-efficiency voltage regulator.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Let\u2019s examine these components in more detail.<\/span><\/p>\n<h4><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">ESP8266 WiFi Controller<\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For many of you, the ESP8266 requires no introduction. This chip has been a popular component in many DIY electronics projects and is featured in many commercial designs as well.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Manufactured by Espressif Systems, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.espressif.com\/en\/products\/hardware\/esp8266ex\/overview\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">the ESP8266<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> combines a WiFi interface with a microcontroller. It\u2019s low-cost and ability to be programmed using the popular Arduino IDE has made it a favorite component with makers and hackers.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The WiFi Stepper uses the small form-factor ESP-WROOM-02 package of the ESP8266 in its design. The board brings out several of the ESP8266 connections to a male header, allowing experimenters to make further use of the capabilities of the WiFi chip.<\/span><\/p>\n<h4><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">powerSTEP01 Stepper Motor Driver<\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.st.com\/en\/motor-drivers\/powerstep01.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">powerSTEP01<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is a stepper motor driver chip that uses 8 N-channel power MOSFETs to allow it to drive motor coils at up to 85 volts at 10 amperes. It features overcurrent and overtemperature and motor stall protection.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">On the WiFi Stepper, this chip has been provided with a heatsink to keep it running cool.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The powerSTEP01 has its own integrated controller that provides full control of the stepper motors speed and position. It communicates using the SPI bus at 5Mbits.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The powerSTEP01 can provide stepping modes of up to 1\/128 microstep.<\/span><\/p>\n<h4><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Microchip ATECC508A Crypto-authentication Module<\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.microchip.com\/wwwproducts\/en\/ATECC508A\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Microchip ATECC508A crypto-authentication module<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> supports the ECDH (Elliptic Curve Diffie\u2013Hellman) key agreement, allowing it to provide authentication without the need for secure storage. This device is popular in industrial, home automation, medical, and IoT applications.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The ATECC508A can store up to 16 keys and communicates on the I2C bus.<\/span><\/p>\n<h4><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Maxim MAX15062 High-efficiency Voltage Regulator<\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.maximintegrated.com\/en\/products\/power\/switching-regulators\/MAX15062.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Maxim MAX15062<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is a High-Voltage Synchronous Buck Regulator in a very small package. It supplies the operating voltage for the logic circuitry on the WiFi Stepper.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This device is completely self-contained and operates with a very wide range of input voltages.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Connections<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> The components for the WiFi Stepper are mounted on a printed circuit board that measures 78mm x 57mm (3.07 x 2.25 inches). \u00a0The board appears to be of very high quality.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-5398\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dronebotworkshop.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/WiFi-Stepper-Connections.jpeg?resize=750%2C422&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"WiFi Stepper Connections\" width=\"750\" height=\"422\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dronebotworkshop.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/WiFi-Stepper-Connections.jpeg?w=768&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dronebotworkshop.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/WiFi-Stepper-Connections.jpeg?resize=300%2C169&amp;ssl=1 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The board sports the folowing connectors:<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Terminal Strip<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This 6-screw connector terminal strip has the following connections:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><b>GND<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; The Ground connection<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><b>VIN<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; Positive DC voltage input, 85 volts maximum<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><b>A-<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; Stepper Motor Coil A.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><b>A+<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; Stepper Motor Coil A<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><b>B+<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; Stepper Motor Coil B<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><b>B-<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; Stepper Motor Coil B<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b>Power Jack<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The WiFi Stepper has a 2.1mm barrel connector. This can be used to supply power at up to 50 volts DC.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>powerSTEP01 Breakouts<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There is a 6-pin male header at the top of the board that can be used to make direct connections to the powerSTEP01 stepper motor driver.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><b>3V3<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; A 3.3-Volt output for driving external logic circuitry<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><b>GND<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; A Ground connection.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><b>SW<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; An input for an external switch. This accepts a 3.3-volt logic-level signal and has an internal pull-up resistor.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><b>STEP<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; An input for an external stepper clock signal. It is a 3.3-volt logic signal.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><b>FLAG<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; An active-low error signal. It is also connected to the internal red FLAG LED.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><b>BUSY<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; An active-low busy signal. It&#8217;s low when the stepper motor driver is executing a command.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b>ESP8266 Breakouts<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The 9-pin male header at the bottom of the board provides connections to the ESP8266 WiFi controller module.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><b>3V3<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; A 3.3-volt power output for powering external logic circuitry.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><b>GND<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; A Ground connection.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><b>SCK<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; The I2C clock connection.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><b>SDA<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; Th eI2C Data connection.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><b>RST<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; The ESP8266 Reset pin. Sending this low will disable the ESP8266.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><b>ADC<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; The 10-bit analog to digital converter input.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><b>BOOT<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; The ESP8266 BOOT pin. Ground this to enter the ESP8266 bootloader.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><b>RX<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; The ESP8266 UART receive.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><b>TX<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; The ESP8266 UART transmit.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-5397\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dronebotworkshop.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/WiFi-Stepper-Breakouts.jpg?resize=750%2C421&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"WiFi Stepper Breakouts\" width=\"750\" height=\"421\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dronebotworkshop.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/WiFi-Stepper-Breakouts.jpg?w=768&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dronebotworkshop.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/WiFi-Stepper-Breakouts.jpg?resize=300%2C168&amp;ssl=1 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p>\n<p><b>Status LEDs<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The board also has three status LEDs.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">POWER &#8211; Indicates power on.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">FLAG &#8211; Indicates that an error flag has been raised.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">WIFI &#8211; A WiFi activity LED<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In addition, the WiFi Stepper board has a Reset switch. Pressing and holding this button will reset the device to its initial factory configuration.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Solder Pads<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">On the bottom of the WiFi Stepper board there are two long pads.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-5404\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dronebotworkshop.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/WiFi-Stepper-Solder-Bridge.jpg?resize=750%2C422&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"WiFi Stepper Solder Bridge\" width=\"750\" height=\"422\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dronebotworkshop.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/WiFi-Stepper-Solder-Bridge.jpg?w=768&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dronebotworkshop.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/WiFi-Stepper-Solder-Bridge.jpg?resize=300%2C169&amp;ssl=1 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These pads are across some low-value power resistors on the top of the board. The power resistors are used to measure the amount of current delivered to the motor coils when The WiFi Stepper is in Current Control Mode.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When the WiFi Stepper is used in Voltage Control Mode the resistors are not necessary and, as they are in series with the motor coils. They slightly reduce the amount of current delivered to the stepper motor.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you only plan to run the unit in Voltage Control Mode then you can use these pads to solder a jumper or bridge and effectively short out the power resistors. This will slightly increase the available torque in Voltage Control Mode.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In my tests I did not bridge these pads as I wanted to experiment with both modes.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Getting Started<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Now that we have gone over the components and connections on the WiFi Stepper controller board it\u2019s time to hook it up!<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Motor Connections<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The first step is to connect a bipolar stepper motor to the controller. This is done using the terminal strip A and B connections.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you are not sure about your stepper motors connections the best bet is to try and find a spec sheet that details them. But if that isn\u2019t possible you can figure it out using a multimeter. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Measure the resistance across different combinations of the four wires from your stepper motor. Two pairs of wires should show a very low resistance, the other combinations should show infinite resistance.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The two wire pairs with the low resistance are the two motor coils. Connect them to the A and B connections on the terminal strip.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Of course, this method does not give you the coil polarity or phase, however, in the web-based user interface you can reverse the polarity of one of the coils. \u00a0This eliminates the need to manually reverse the wires.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Power Supply<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Next is the power supply. You will want to use a power supply with the same voltage rating as your stepper motor coils, and with enough current capacity as well. \u00a0The faceplate on your motor may have all the details you need.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If your power supply is less than 50 volts you have two choices for connecting it.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You can use the 2.1mm barrel power connector with a mating plug, the center wire is the positive connection. \u00a0Or you can use the remaining two terminals on the terminal strip, paying close attention to polarity.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If your power supply is between 50 and 85 volts then you\u2019ll need to use the terminal strip connectors instead of the barrel connector.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">WiFi Setup<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Once you apply power to the WiFi Stepper controller it will power up the ESP8266 and start the wifi. \u00a0The next step is to set up the wifi connection on the device you intend to use to control the stepper motor.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You can use a computer, tablet or phone to control the stepper motor, the web-based interface is responsive so it supports all three platforms.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">On your device open your wifi connections and scan for a source with an SSID of <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">wsx100-ap<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. This is the connection to the WiFi Stepper.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Initially, the wifi connection <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">wsx100-ap<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is open, it has no passkey. So it should be very easy to connect to. Once you are in the web-based interface you may set up a passkey and change the SSID if you wish to.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">After you have established a wifi connection to the board you can start using the web-based user interface to control your stepper motor.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Web-Based User Interface<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The WiFi Stepper controller supports a full-featured web-based user interface that allows you to control virtually every aspect of your stepper motor operation.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Once you have connected to the WiFi Stepper controller via wifi you can access the user interface using your web browser. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Open your browser and type <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">http:\/\/192.168.4.1<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> into the address bar. Alternatively, you may type <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">http:\/\/wsx100.local<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This should launch the web-based user interface. Let\u2019s look at some of the features of this interface.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Settings<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The settings screen is the first page you will see when you open the web-based user interface.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-5408\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dronebotworkshop.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/WiFi-Stepper-Web-Interface-Settings.jpg?resize=750%2C422&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"WiFi Stepper Web-based Interface Settings Page\" width=\"750\" height=\"422\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dronebotworkshop.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/WiFi-Stepper-Web-Interface-Settings.jpg?w=768&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dronebotworkshop.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/WiFi-Stepper-Web-Interface-Settings.jpg?resize=300%2C169&amp;ssl=1 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Settings<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> screen allows you to set up and modify the WiFi connection parameters, essentially this is a control panel for the ESP8266 functions. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You can change the SSID and add a passkey and hide the SSID for added security.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You can set up the API to use https, again for added security. This is useful in applications where you will be controlling the WiFi stepper using a script on a remote computer.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You can also reset the device back to factory specifications.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Troubleshooting &amp; Documentation<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There are separate pages for <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Troubleshooting<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Documentation<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> for the hWiFi Stepper. As I have been testing with a pre-release version of the product it is likely that when you use the final release there will be changes here.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-5409\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dronebotworkshop.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/WiFi-Stepper-Web-Interface-Troubleshoot.jpg?resize=750%2C422&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"WiFi Stepper Web-Based Interface Troubleshoot Section\" width=\"750\" height=\"422\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dronebotworkshop.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/WiFi-Stepper-Web-Interface-Troubleshoot.jpg?w=768&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dronebotworkshop.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/WiFi-Stepper-Web-Interface-Troubleshoot.jpg?resize=300%2C169&amp;ssl=1 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Troubleshooting<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> page has a number of troubleshooting tips, useful if you are experiencing difficulties in getting your setup to work properly.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The page lists a number of common issues, possible causes, and possible solutions. It covers a variety of issues that you might encounter.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-5406\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dronebotworkshop.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/WiFi-Stepper-Web-Interface-Documentation.jpg?resize=750%2C422&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"WiFi Stepper Web-based Interface Documentation\" width=\"750\" height=\"422\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dronebotworkshop.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/WiFi-Stepper-Web-Interface-Documentation.jpg?w=768&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dronebotworkshop.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/WiFi-Stepper-Web-Interface-Documentation.jpg?resize=300%2C169&amp;ssl=1 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Documentation<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> page contains, what else, documentation for the WiFi Stepper. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The version I have lists documentation for the correct hookup of your stepper motor, including hints for determining the wiring and specifications for your motor.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As with the <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Troubleshooting<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> page, I suspect that the final version will have additional entries.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Quick Start<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Quick Start <\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">page is actually the page you will be using the most. This is the page that allows you to set up and control the stepper motor.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-5407\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dronebotworkshop.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/WiFi-Stepper-Web-Interface-Select-Mode.jpg?resize=750%2C422&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"WiFi Stepper Web-based Interface Select Mode\" width=\"750\" height=\"422\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dronebotworkshop.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/WiFi-Stepper-Web-Interface-Select-Mode.jpg?w=768&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dronebotworkshop.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/WiFi-Stepper-Web-Interface-Select-Mode.jpg?resize=300%2C169&amp;ssl=1 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The page allows you to set up the mode you want to use the stepper motor in:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><b>Speed Control<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; In this mode, you can control the speed and direction of the motor<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><b>Servo Control<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; This mode allows you to operate the motor somewhat like a servo motor. You can specify the position that you want to move the shaft to.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><b>External Step Clock<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; This mode lets you control the servo motor using an external clock source.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In addition, the <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Quick Start<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> also lets you specify how you want to drive the stepper motor.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Voltage Control &#8211; In this mode, the stepper motor voltage is kept constant.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Current Control &#8211; In this mode the current to the motor is kept at maximum, increasing the voltage when required.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You can also specify the microstepping mode for both Voltage and Current control.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Quick Start<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> page also lets you set a wide variety of motor parameters. \u00a0You can get details for each parameter (and every control on the web-based interface) by highlighting the \u201cquestion mark\u201d beside each control or parameter name. A dialog box will appear explaining the function of the selected item.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Finally, there is a \u201cQuick Code\u201d section that will allow you to create a Bash or Python script based upon the motor control settings you have selected.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As the <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Quick Start<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> page is the heart of the web-based interface I will explain its functions in greater detail now.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Speed Control Mode<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Let\u2019s start in Speed Control mode.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In this mode you can regulate the speed of the stepper motor, using either Current or Voltage control.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-5405\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dronebotworkshop.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/WiFi-Stepper-Speed-Control.jpg?resize=750%2C422&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"WiFi Stepper Speed Control\" width=\"750\" height=\"422\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dronebotworkshop.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/WiFi-Stepper-Speed-Control.jpg?w=768&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dronebotworkshop.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/WiFi-Stepper-Speed-Control.jpg?resize=300%2C169&amp;ssl=1 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There is an animated diagram of the motor shaft that accurately shows you the shaft position at all times. Below it are controls for<\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Forward<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Stop<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Reverse<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Just beside the motor is a place where you can set the actual speed of the motor in RPM.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You may also select a microstepping value. If you are in <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Current<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> control it will range from 1\/1 to 1\/16, in <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Voltage <\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">control you may select between 1\/1 and 1\/128 microsteps.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There is also a \u201c<\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Stop on Switch<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u201d checkbox. When it is enabled the motor will stop when the <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">SW <\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">pin on the powerSTEP01 breakout connector is grounded. This would make an ideal limit switch configuration.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Servo Control Mode<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Servo Contro<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">l mode allows you to specify a position in degrees and have the motor shaft move to that position. \u00a0In this respect, it is a bit like a servo motor.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-5403\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dronebotworkshop.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/WiFi-Stepper-Servo-Control.jpg?resize=750%2C422&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"WiFi Stepper Servo Control\" width=\"750\" height=\"422\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dronebotworkshop.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/WiFi-Stepper-Servo-Control.jpg?w=768&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dronebotworkshop.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/WiFi-Stepper-Servo-Control.jpg?resize=300%2C169&amp;ssl=1 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You may specify the angle you want to position the shaft in two ways:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">By dragging a \u201chandle\u201d on the animated motor shaft diagram. The motor shaft will \u201cfollow\u201d your movements.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">By entering an angular value into the <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Position<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> text box beside the animated diagram. The motor will immediately move into that position.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As with<\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Speed Contro<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">l mode, you can select if you want to drive the motor using <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Current<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Voltage<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> control. \u00a0You may also set the microstep values.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This mode would be very useful if you wanted to always return the motor shaft to a specific position.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">External Step Clock Mode<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">External Step Clock<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> mode, you use an external clock signal to step the motor. You can still monitor the shaft position using the web-based interface.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-5400\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dronebotworkshop.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/WiFi-Stepper-External-Step-Clock-Control.jpg?resize=750%2C422&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"WiFi Stepper External Step-Clock Control\" width=\"750\" height=\"422\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dronebotworkshop.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/WiFi-Stepper-External-Step-Clock-Control.jpg?w=768&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dronebotworkshop.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/WiFi-Stepper-External-Step-Clock-Control.jpg?resize=300%2C169&amp;ssl=1 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You apply the clock pulse to the <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">STEP<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> pin on the powerSTEP01 breakout connector. The clock pulse needs to be a 3.3-volt logic level signal, which you can derive from a microcontroller, an external oscillator or timer chip.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You could use several WiFi Stepper boards in tandem and synchronize them to the same clock signal.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As with the previous modes you may select <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Voltage<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Current<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> control for your stepper and may also change the microstep value. The motor will move one microstep for every clock pulse it receives.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Increasing the clock frequency will, of course, increase the speed of the motor.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There is a Start and Stop control for the motor. As with the other modes, the animated diagram will display the current motor shaft position.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In External Step Clock mode, there is a checkbox labeled \u201cDirection on SW\u201d. When this is checked you can use the <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">SW\u00a0<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> input on the powerSTEP01 breakout connector to change the motor direction.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When the <em>SW<\/em> pin is brought high (3.3-volts) or left unattached (it has an internal pull-up resistor holding it high) the motor will spin forward. When it is grounded (low) it will spin in reverse.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This would make an excellent limit switch for a device that needs to change direction when a mechanical or optical switch is triggered.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here is the test setup I used when evaluating the WiFi Stepper controller in<\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> External Step Clock<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> mode.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-5401\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dronebotworkshop.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/WiFi-Stepper-External-Step-Clock-Test.jpg?resize=750%2C422&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"WiFi Stepper External Step-Clock Test\" width=\"750\" height=\"422\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dronebotworkshop.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/WiFi-Stepper-External-Step-Clock-Test.jpg?w=768&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dronebotworkshop.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/WiFi-Stepper-External-Step-Clock-Test.jpg?resize=300%2C169&amp;ssl=1 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">I used a signal generator set for a 3.3-volt square wave output in my testing. Using this I was able to drive the motor and change the speed by changing the pulse frequency.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Voltage vs Current Control<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">All the above modes are useable in both Voltage and Current control modes here are some of the differences between the two:<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Voltage Control<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In this mode, the voltage to the motor coils is kept to a constant voltage, the same voltage as the power supply for the WiFi Stepper.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Advantages<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The motor consumes less current than Current Control mode.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The motor runs quieter<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The motor can be microstepped to 1\/128 microsteps.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The motor runs cooler<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b>Disadvantages<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The motor has less torque.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Need to solder over pads on the bottom of WiFi Stepper for optimum performance (although I used it without doing this and it worked just fine)<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Current Control<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Current<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> control, the maximum amount of current is delivered to the motor coils. The board uses a current pump to achieve this. As a result, the motor will often be driven at a higher coil voltage than it is rated. The powerSTEP01 motor controller manages the current to prevent damaging the coils. You can set the parameters for maximum current in the web-based interface.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Advantages<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The motor has much greater torque and holding power.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b>Disadvantages<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The motor runs hotter. You may need to add a heatsink to the motor frame.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The motor is much louder.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You are limited to 1\/16 microstep.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The motor draws a lot more current from the power supply.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You&#8217;ll need to determine which mode is better suited to your application.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bash &amp; Python Scripts<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The web-based interface is not the only way to control the WiFi Stepper. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You can also use a Bash or Python script running on a wifi-equipped computer to control the device through its API. The WiFi Stepper will return status information in JSON format.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The prerelease version of the WiFi Stepper that I evaluated only had the Bash script functionality operating, so I was unable to test it with Python.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The easiest way of testing Bash scripts is to use either a Linux or Mac workstation, the Mac operating system OSX is actually just a shell running on UNIX so it has native Bash script support.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">I use a Raspberry Pi 3B+ running Raspbian, which is based upon Debian Linux, to test the Bash script functionality.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Setting Up the Environment &#8211; JQ<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Before you can run your Bash scripts you will need to install <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/github.com\/stedolan\/jq\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">JQ<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">JQ is a command-line JSON processor, allowing you to parse JSON text. It is required as the WiFi Stepper API returns data in JSON format. You can read the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/stedolan.github.io\/jq\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">JQ documentation<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> for more information if you\u2019re interested.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">On the Raspbian desktop you can install JQ from the command line. Open your Terminal and type the folowing text.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><i>sudo apt-get install jq<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This requires you to be connected to the internet, so do this before you connect to the WiFi Stepper if you are using a Raspberry Pi W or WH. On a Raspberry Pi 3B+ (or 3B) you can use an ethernet cable to connect to the internet while simultaneously connecting to the WiFi Stepper using the wifi interface. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The installation of JQ takes a while so you\u2019ll need to be patient.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Once JQ is installed you are ready to get the text for your Bash script.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Getting the Script<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The web-based interface can be used to generate text for the Bash script.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Connect your Raspberry Pi (or other Linux box or Mac) to the WiFi Stepper and navigate to the web-based interface using the web browser.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In my example, which you can observe in the video, I used the WiFi Stepper in <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Servo Mode<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Any other mode will work as well.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">I then used the web-based interface to move my motor to the 180-degree position.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">After moving my motor I scrolled down in the web-based interface to the <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Quick Code <\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">section. There are two tabs, one for <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bash<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and the other for <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Python<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-5395\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dronebotworkshop.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/WiFi-Stepper-Bash-Quick-Code.jpg?resize=750%2C422&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"WiFi Stepper Bash Quick-Code\" width=\"750\" height=\"422\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dronebotworkshop.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/WiFi-Stepper-Bash-Quick-Code.jpg?w=768&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dronebotworkshop.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/WiFi-Stepper-Bash-Quick-Code.jpg?resize=300%2C169&amp;ssl=1 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">I used the <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Copy<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> button to copy the Bash code. I then pasted it into a text editor, on the Raspberry Pi I chose Geany.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Quick Code is not the complete script, in fact, it&#8217;s more than that. It is a collection of sample snippets that you can use to create a script, based upon the settings you have selected in the web-based interface.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In Geany I edited the script to eliminate the Stop, Speed and External Clock sections. I left the Servo section intact.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">I saved the script with a \u201c.sh\u201d extension, I called mine <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">stepper180.sh<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Now back in the terminal I made my script executable, using the folowing command:<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><i>chmod -x stepper180.sh<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Of course, you should replace the <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">stepper180.sh <\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">with the name of your script!<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Now the only step left is to run it<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Running the Script<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Running a Bash script at the command line is very easy. You just precede the script name with \u201c.\/\u201d.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">So in my case I typed <\/span><b><i>.\/stepper180.sh<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-5396\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dronebotworkshop.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/WiFi-Stepper-Bash-Script.jpg?resize=750%2C422&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"WiFi Stepper Bash Script\" width=\"750\" height=\"422\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dronebotworkshop.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/WiFi-Stepper-Bash-Script.jpg?w=768&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dronebotworkshop.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/WiFi-Stepper-Bash-Script.jpg?resize=300%2C169&amp;ssl=1 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When I did this and hit Enter I observed my motor moving 180-degrees, just as the script directed it to do.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">I also observed the motor status information returned to me in the terminal.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This was a very simple example but I\u2019m sure it gives you an idea of the power behind this. You could write a script to make the motor go through a predetermined set of instructions. You could then run a program on the Raspberry Pi to call the script when a specific condition is met.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">And of course you are not limited to one script, you could have several of them.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This would allow you to completely automate the operation of the WiFi Stepper.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Conclusion<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The WiFi Stepper is a versatile stepper motor controller with a wealth of features. I can think of many uses for this board in robotics, home automation, and IoT projects. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">I would like to thank Andrew Klofas ate Good Robotics for sending me the sample board. If you would like to get one yourself please visit his <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.crowdsupply.com\/good-robotics\/wi-fi-stepper\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">crowdfunding page on Crowd Supply<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> where you will find information on supporting and purchasing the WiFi Stepper board.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p> The WiFi Stepper is exactly what its name would imply &#8211; a board that lets you control a stepper motor via WiFi.  Its full-featured web-based interface gives you complete control of your motor, and it can support steppers of all sizes up to 85 volts at 10 amps!<\/p>\n<p>Today I&#8217;ll demonstrate how to use this versatile board. I&#8217;ll hook it up, learn how to use it and even run a simple Bash script on a Raspberry Pi to demonstrate how to incorporate it in your programs.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":5402,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[5,57,90],"tags":[43,54],"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dronebotworkshop.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/WiFi-Stepper-Motor-Controller.jpeg?fit=768%2C432&ssl=1","jetpack_shortlink":"https:\/\/wp.me\/p74ClK-1p0","jetpack-related-posts":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/dronebotworkshop.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5394"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/dronebotworkshop.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/dronebotworkshop.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/dronebotworkshop.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/dronebotworkshop.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=5394"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/dronebotworkshop.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5394\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/dronebotworkshop.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/5402"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/dronebotworkshop.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=5394"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/dronebotworkshop.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=5394"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/dronebotworkshop.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=5394"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}