- Insert a white wire into the white wire socket of the standard Servo.
- Insert a red wire into the red wire socket of the standard Servo.
- Insert a black wire into the black wire socket of the standard Servo.
- Repeat steps 1-3 for the continuous Servo using the remaining red, black, and white wires.
STEM Connections
As was the case in the Servo activity, the red and black wires will create a circuit that allows for electric current to flow through the Servo and provide the energy for movement, while the white wire will send signals to the Servo with instructions about how and when to move.
At this point, these wires should only be connected to the Servos, not the Arduino or the breadboard.
Color coding in electronics make it easier to prevent mistakes. Ask students where else they see or use color-coding to help make life easier.
Placing the wires in the wrong place will not only prohibit a Servo from working properly but could also create a short circuit and cause damage to the Servo or Arduino board. Be very careful to always correctly place these wires. After repeated use, it is possible for a wire to break inside the wire hole of the Servo. If there is a piece of wire blocking a hold, try using pliers to remove it or use a different Servo. Be aware that in this step, 2 different sets of wires are being connected to the 2 Servos. Do not connect the red of one Servo to the red of the other Servo. These wires need to be free so that they can receive the power or signal needed to make the Servos work properly.