How to use servos with Pico - C/C++

Unlock the power of the Raspberry Pi Pico for your robotics projects! In this video, I dive into the world of servos and show you how to create a custom PWM servo control library from scratch since the Pico doesn’t come with a built-in servo library like Arduino. Learn how servos work, how PWM signals control their position, and how to write efficient C code to make your servos sweep smoothly. From a single servo sweep to controlling two servos independently (and up to 16!), this tutorial is packed with practical tips for hobbyists and makers. 🚀

🔍 What’s in this video?
A breakdown of servo mechanics: control boards, potentiometers, DC motors, and gearboxes.
Explanation of PWM signals for servo control (400µs for 0° to 2400µs for 180° in a 20ms cycle).
Step-by-step guide to writing a custom servo library in C, including set_servo and set_mills functions.
Live demos of a single servo sweep and a dual servo sweep running on the Raspberry Pi Pico.
Tips for troubleshooting issues like servo stutter and managing multiple servos with the Pico’s 16 hardware PWM ports.

💡 Why watch this?
Whether you’re new to the Raspberry Pi Pico or a seasoned robotics enthusiast, this video will teach you how to harness the Pico’s potential for precise servo control. Perfect for DIY robotics, animatronics, or any project requiring smooth motor movement. Plus, I share all the code on GitHub for you to try yourself! Stay tuned for more Pico tutorials and an epic robot build coming soon!

🛒 Grab the tools and components I used:
Raspberry Pi Pico 2 - The perfect microcontroller for robotics projects: https://amzn.to/46m1cGL
MG90s Servos - Small, cheap, and light servos: https://amzn.to/45OgiEK
MG996r Servos - Bigger with more torque for larger loads: https://amzn.to/44oIADj
3D Printer - The easiest and fastest way to prototype your projects: https://amzn.to/46kdQpI
Breadboard & Jumper Wires - Essential for easy prototyping. Buy here: https://amzn.to/4ky1VIB
TS101 Soldering Iron - This one I've been using for years. Get one here: https://amzn.to/45H7BvX
Benchtop Power Supply - External power for the ultrasonic sensor. Shop here: https://amzn.to/44qiIqY

📂 Get the code: All scripts shown in the video are available on GitHub: https://github.com/TurtleGameDev/Pico...
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📱 Follow me on Instagram for behind-the-scenes content and project updates: https://www.instagram.com/kleist_robo...
🎥 Check out more of my tech and robotics builds:    / @kleistrobotics2220  

💬 Have questions? Drop a comment below, and I’ll answer them! Let me know what you’re building with the Pico or what tutorials you’d like to see next. Let’s keep the maker spirit alive!

#RaspberryPiPico #ServoControl #Robotics #PWM #DIY #Maker #Electronics #Programming #TechTutorials #RoboticsProjects