AVR-Chat

--- In AVR-Chat@yahoogroups.com, "mech_research" <mech_research@y...> 
wrote:
> I am investigating if using an avr to control the operation 
> of a motor is feasible (on/off only in regular intervals).

The short answer is that it is feasible.  The longer answer is that 
to do so, you may need one or more devices between the AVR and the 
actual device being controlled.

The AVR outputs, in digital mode, can assume either of two states: 
approximately zero volts and approximately the positive supply 
(typically 5 volts).  Each output can source or sink on the order of 
tens of milliamps (although lower is better because there is a 
combined limit on the current of all outputs).  If the device that 
you want to control meets these specifications and doesn't exhibit 
kickback voltage (as will happen when you switch an inductive load) 
then you can drive it directly.

If your device doesn't meet these specs, you'll need one or more 
interfacing devices (relays, opto-isolators, high-current drivers, 
etc.) arranged so that the one connected to the AVR is compatible 
with its outputs and the one on the opposite end has characteristics 
compatible with your device being controlled.