Using a closed-loop stepper motor to create an antenna tracker

[cambull (Stewart Campbell)]

Not sure if you have seen my take on using steppers for the AAT. I use some interface electronics which essentially turn steppers into position servos.

Using Stepper Motors as RC Position Servos or Continuous Rotation Servos

I recently 3D printed a bracket to attach the antenna boom from my GSE to a NEMA 42 stepper motor. That is 5kg worth of motor in the vice! The antenna boom was clamped to the mount and dropped onto the 3/4" (keyed!) motor shaft. Drive was accomplished with a 24v PSU (15A max) and a TIC 36v4 drive board. This was controlled through a RC tranmitter and receiver. So this will be the azimuth drive for the Automatic Antenna Tracker. Works well I think. [Stepper Motor Azimuth Drive Test…

I am still working on building this and getting it going. Life gets in the way sometimes.