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Published2025-10-15
The SG90 Servo Motor is a popular choice in the world of robotics, automation, and electronics due to its compact design and impressive functionality. This article delves deep into the SG90 Servo Motor, explaining its structure, working mechanism, applications, and why it is a favorite among hobbyists and professionals alike.
Introduction to the SG90 Servo Motor
In the dynamic world of robotics and electronics, servo motors are indispensable. Among them, the SG90 servo motor has gained significant attention due to its excellent performance, compact size, and affordable price. Whether you are an experienced engineer, a budding hobbyist, or a DIY enthusiast, understanding the features and functionality of the SG90 can help you unlock new possibilities in your projects.
The SG90 is a small and lightweight servo motor, often used for controlling the rotation of robotic arms, aircraft control surfaces, camera systems, and various other automated mechanical systems. It is primarily used in low-torque applications, making it a popular choice for models, prototypes, and small robotic systems.
What is the SG90 Servo Motor?
The SG90 is a type of miniature servo motor that operates on direct current (DC) power. It is designed to rotate within a specific range, typically 0 to 180 degrees, making it suitable for precise positioning tasks. Servo motors like the SG90 are designed with built-in control systems that allow them to rotate to a specific angle based on the input signal they receive.
One of the key components that define the SG90 is its internal circuitry, which includes a small, lightweight motor, gears, and an encoder that tracks the motor’s position. When it receives a Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) signal, it adjusts its shaft to the corresponding angle. The SG90's ability to accurately control its angle and move to specific positions makes it an ideal choice for various applications in robotics and automation.
Key Features of the SG90 Servo Motor
Compact and Lightweight Design: The SG90 is designed to be small, measuring only about 22.5 x 11.5 x 22 mm and weighing just 9 grams. This makes it ideal for small, portable projects where space and weight are critical factors.
High Precision Control: The motor can rotate from 0 to 180 degrees, with high accuracy. The precision of the SG90 makes it a popular choice for projects requiring precise and controlled movements, such as controlling the limbs of robots, moving parts in a drone, or adjusting the orientation of a camera.
Low Power Consumption: The SG90 operates on a low voltage of 4.8V to 6V, making it energy-efficient and ideal for battery-powered projects or devices that require long operational periods without frequent recharging.
Ease of Use: The SG90 is user-friendly, especially for beginners. It can be controlled with a simple Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) signal from a microcontroller or other control unit, making it an excellent choice for hobbyists and engineers alike.
Affordable Price: Compared to other servos in the market, the SG90 is extremely affordable, often costing just a few dollars. This makes it an attractive option for anyone looking to build a robot or mechanical system on a budget.
How Does the SG90 Servo Motor Work?
The SG90 operates based on the principle of PWM control. PWM is a technique that sends a digital signal at varying intervals, controlling the speed and position of the motor. The width of the pulse determines how far the motor shaft will rotate. For example, a pulse with a width of 1.5ms will position the motor at 90 degrees, while a pulse width of 1ms and 2ms will rotate it to 0 and 180 degrees, respectively.
This control method provides a simple yet effective way of controlling servo motors, and it is easy to interface with microcontrollers like Arduino, Raspberry Pi, and others. The precise movement offered by the SG90 is what makes it perfect for applications like robotic arms, vehicle steering systems, and other systems requiring high control over their mechanical movements.
Common Applications of the SG90 Servo Motor
The SG90 is a versatile motor and finds its place in a wide range of applications across various fields. Some of the most common uses include:
Robotics: The SG90 servo motor is widely used in robotics, especially for projects like robotic arms, grippers, and crawlers. Its precise movement is key for robots that need to interact with their environment in a controlled manner.
Hobby Projects: For hobbyists working on model airplanes, cars, or helicopters, the SG90 is a go-to solution for controlling moving parts. Its size and ease of integration make it a favorite among DIY enthusiasts.
Automation Systems: The SG90 is also used in automation systems where mechanical movement is required. This includes adjusting doors, switches, or camera lenses. Its ability to move with precision ensures that automation tasks are performed accurately and efficiently.
Camera Gimbals: For stabilizing cameras in drones or handheld devices, the SG90 servo motor can be used to adjust the camera's angle. It is small and lightweight, making it a perfect fit for aerial photography and other applications where weight and precision are crucial.
Advantages of Using the SG90 Servo Motor
Cost-Effective: The SG90 provides an affordable solution for a variety of projects, offering impressive performance without a hefty price tag.
Compact Size: Its small form factor makes it easy to integrate into various designs without taking up too much space.
Reliable Performance: Despite its low price, the SG90 offers consistent and reliable performance, which makes it suitable for both prototype and final product stages.
Why the SG90 Servo Motor Is Perfect for Beginners
One of the reasons the SG90 is so popular among newcomers to robotics and electronics is its simplicity. The motor's ease of use is one of its standout features. Here are a few reasons why beginners gravitate towards the SG90:
No Need for Complex Programming: Most beginners start their projects with microcontrollers like Arduino. The SG90 can be easily controlled using basic PWM programming, which is beginner-friendly and well-supported by online communities.
Plug-and-Play Integration: The SG90 comes with pre-wired connectors, making it easy to integrate into your project. It doesn't require specialized knowledge of motor controllers or additional hardware to get it working.
Plenty of Learning Resources: There is no shortage of tutorials and guides available for learning how to use the SG90. Online forums, blogs, and instructional videos make it easy to find step-by-step instructions for using the motor in different projects.
How to Control the SG90 with an Arduino
Controlling the SG90 with an Arduino microcontroller is a straightforward process. To control the motor, you need to send a PWM signal from one of the Arduino’s digital pins. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to controlling an SG90 using an Arduino:
Wiring the SG90 to the Arduino:
Connect the red wire (VCC) of the SG90 to the 5V pin on the Arduino.
Connect the brown wire (GND) of the SG90 to the GND pin on the Arduino.
Connect the orange wire (signal) to a PWM-enabled pin (e.g., pin 9) on the Arduino.
Use the Servo library in Arduino IDE, which simplifies controlling the servo motor. Include the library in your code and set the PWM pin for the servo.
Use the write() function to specify the angle you want the servo to rotate to.
int pos = 0; // variable to store the servo position
myServo.attach(9); // attach the servo on pin 9
for (pos = 0; pos <= 180; pos++) {
myServo.write(pos); // tell servo to go to position in variable 'pos'
delay(15); // wait for the servo to reach the position
for (pos = 180; pos >= 0; pos--) {
myServo.write(pos); // tell servo to go to position in variable 'pos'
delay(15); // wait for the servo to reach the position
This simple code will make the SG90 rotate back and forth from 0 to 180 degrees. This basic movement can be expanded to suit more complex applications, like controlling robotic arms or automated camera systems.
Things to Keep in Mind When Using the SG90 Servo Motor
While the SG90 is a fantastic motor for many applications, there are a few limitations and considerations to keep in mind:
Torque Limitations: The SG90 is a low-torque motor, which means it is not suitable for applications requiring heavy lifting or high force. It is best for tasks involving light movements and small loads.
Operating Voltage: The SG90 operates optimally between 4.8V to 6V, so using a power supply outside this range can affect its performance or damage the motor. Make sure to choose an appropriate power source for your project.
Durability: Since the SG90 is designed for light-duty use, its internal gears can wear out with excessive use. Therefore, it’s best used in projects that don’t involve constant or heavy load operations.
The SG90 servo motor stands out as an affordable, efficient, and versatile option for a wide range of applications, from robotics to DIY hobby projects. Its compact size, ease
Established in 2005, Kpower has been dedicated to a professional compact motion unit manufacturer, headquartered in Dongguan, Guangdong Province, China.
Update：2025-10-15
Contact Kpower's product specialist to recommend suitable motor or gearbox for your product.
