SPIDER Automation Sabertooth Dual 12A Motor Driver for R/C 18-24VDC | Motor Driver Module | Combat Robots & R/C Vehicles
Description
SPIDER Automation Sabertooth Dual 12A Motor Driver for R/C is a top-tier dual motor driver specifically optimized for radio-controlled vehicles, differential drive platforms, and medium-powered robotic systems. Out of the box, it safely supplies two DC brushed motors with up to 12A of continuous current each, with peak currents reaching 25A for demanding maneuvers. As the first synchronous regenerative motor driver in its class, its topology captures energy during deceleration and reverses to recharge your batteries while providing lightning-fast, nimble stopping power. Operating modes—including exponential control, autocalibration, and mixing—are easily configured via onboard DIP switches with no loose jumpers. Equipped with an integrated 5V switching BEC, ultrasonic 32kHz silent switching, thermal protection, and a lithium cutoff mode, it is the ultimate robust controller for high-performance mobile robots.
Key Features
- Synchronous Regenerative Drive: Recovers braking energy to actively recharge batteries while enabling aggressive, instantaneous direction shifts.
- High Current Output: Delivers 12A continuous per channel (up to 24V inputs) with transient peak current handling up to 25A.
- Ultrasonic Switching Frequency: Operates at a 32kHz switching speed to ensure completely silent motor operation.
- Robust Protection Suite: Comprehensive thermal and overcurrent protection guards against accidental motor stalls or hardware overloads.
- Built-In Switching BEC: Provides clean 5V power to onboard microcontrollers, R/C receivers, and steering servos.
- Lithium Protection Mode: Ensures safe discharging parameters when running on Lithium-Ion or LiPo battery packs.
Benefits
- Exceptional Responsiveness: Quick acceleration and braking profiles give robotic vehicles a competitive performance edge.
- Simplified Configuration: Onboard DIP switches eliminate complicated software flashing or misplaced jumper blocks.
- Versatile Signal Integration: Easily interfaces with standard R/C receivers, analog joysticks, or microcontroller serial outputs.
Applications
- Combat Robotics: Battle-tested motor controller choice for weight classes up to 30 lbs.
- Differential Drive Rovers: Ideal steering and velocity controller for indoor/outdoor autonomous service robots.
- Radio-Controlled Models: Perfect upgrade for custom R/C tanks, heavy-duty tracked cars, and marine watercraft.
Package Includes
- 1 x Sabertooth Dual 12A Motor Driver for R/C
- 1 x Mounting Nut and Bolt Hardware Set
- 1 x Quick Start Guide Manual
Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Item Type / Series | Dual-Channel DC Motor Driver (R/C Edition) |
| Brand | SPIDER Automation |
| Driver Model | Sabertooth 2×12 R/C |
| Operating Voltage Range (VDC) | 18V to 24V DC |
| Continuous Current Rating | 12A per channel (up to 24V, higher with active cooling) / 10A standard |
| Peak Current Rating | 25A per channel (sustained for a few seconds) |
| Number of Channels | 2 Independent Output Channels |
| Operating Modes | R/C, Analog, Simplified Serial, Packetized Serial (via DIP Switch) |
| Onboard BEC Output | 5V Switching BEC (Powers Receiver / Microcontroller / Servos) |
| Protection Features | Thermal Protection, Overcurrent Limiting, Lithium Battery Cutoff Mode |
| Switching Frequency | 32 kHz (Ultrasonic Silent Operation) |
