Servo Motor Voltages: 12V vs. 14V Explained

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the voltage specifications of servo motors, particularly the designation of "12V servo" while datasheets reference performance metrics at 14V. Participants explore the implications of operating voltages on performance and longevity, as well as the relationship between battery types and voltage ratings.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants question why servo motors labeled as "12V" reference 14V in their datasheets, suggesting that 14V may align with common lipo battery voltages.
  • One participant asserts that a 12V servo is designed to operate at a minimum of 12V for longevity, but operating at higher voltages can increase speed while reducing lifespan.
  • Another participant notes that lead-acid batteries maintain 12 volts under load but can reach 14 volts when charged, implying a connection to the voltage ratings of servos.
  • A later reply emphasizes that 14V is the maximum voltage for operation, indicating a distinction between nominal and maximum voltage ratings.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express varying views on the implications of operating voltages, with some agreeing on the relationship between voltage and performance while others seek clarification on the specifications. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the rationale behind the voltage designations.

Contextual Notes

Participants reference specific voltage thresholds and their effects on servo performance, but there are no detailed datasheets provided to substantiate claims. The discussion includes assumptions about battery behavior and servo longevity that are not universally agreed upon.

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TL;DR
12V servos using 14V in datasheet?
I would like to understand why servo motors often state they are a "12V servo" but then in the datasheet they will refer to tests and torque ratings at 14V? I'm assuming 14V is chosen due to common lipo battery voltages, but then why call it a 12V servo motor?
 
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Can you please link to an example datasheet.

A 12V servo expects to operate on a minimum of 12V, and will have a long life. If you operate it at higher voltages it will operate proportionally faster and have a shorter life.

Lead acid batteries maintain 12 volts when loaded, but they have 14 volts while being charged.
 
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Baluncore said:
Can you please link to an example datasheet.

A 12V servo expects to operate on a minimum of 12V, and will have a long life. If you operate it at higher voltages it will operate proportionally faster and have a shorter life.

Lead acid batteries maintain 12 volts when loaded, but they have 14 volts while being charged.

Thanks, that makes sense. Here's what I was looking at previously (not exactly a datasheet):

https://au-m.banggood.com/JX-CLS-12...8xP1Bzmidg_f6FRu1ElzfUR6AE46JRFRoCom8QAvD_BwE
 
"Voltage must be lower than 14V" 12V nominal and 14V is the max.
 

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