Cytron motor driver
Overview
The Cytron MD13S is the motor driver of choice for most AgOpenGPS systems. It acts as the heavy‑duty link between AgOpenGPS’s brain (the Teensy and AgOpenGPS software) and the tractor’s steering hardware (e.g., a DIY steering motor). In practive, the Cytron converts tiny logic pulses from the Teensy into the amperage that actually turns your motor (or drives a hydraulic valve).
Further details, including full technical specs can be found here: https://www.cytron.io/p-13amp-6v-30v-dc-motor-driver.
Beware - Cytron make a few different types of motor driver. The MD13S is the one that fits the requirements of the AIO PCBs, so don’t just go “for one that sounds similar”.
Use cases
You will need the Cytron for the following steering setups:
- DIY Steering motor
- Aftermarket Hydraulic valve
You likely won’t need the Cytron for:
- Keya Motor setups
- Danfoss valve setups
- Canbus steering setups
Installation
Installation information is currently dispersed across the AgOpenGPS community. Willing to contribute? please reach out via the AgOpenGPS Github.
Freewheel modification
If using the Cytron with a DIY steering motor, When the motor is not used it acts as a resistance. When the cytron is connected it acts like a brake. To avoid this, You have a few options, which can be seen in full on the DIY motor documentation page. Included here is the option which involves modifying the cytron to allow the motor to freewheel when not in use.
Warning
Playing with electronics is risky, so do so at your own risk.Free wheel mod v2
This new AIO board has the option of connecting pwm2 to the cytron for the freewheeling mod.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v6l7rEM7Ldk
Sample suppliers
Here are some sample suppliers for the Cytron: