PWM Shield For Arduino

16-Channel 12-Bit PWM Servo Shield – I2C Interface (PCA9685 Compatible)

Product Overview

This 16-channel PWM and servo driver shield is designed for Arduino projects that require a large number of precise PWM outputs. It is ideal for robotics projects such as hexapod walkers, kinetic art installations, or LED control applications where standard Arduino PWM pins are insufficient or already in use.

The shield is Arduino-ready and compatible with Arduino boards that support shields, including Uno, Leonardo, Mega, and ADK. It is based on the PCA9685 I2C-controlled PWM driver and operates independently once configured, freeing your microcontroller from continuous signal generation.

The product ships fully tested and assembled, with included headers and terminal block. Minor soldering is required to attach and customize the headers, a straightforward task suitable even for beginners.

Key Features

• 16-channel, 12-bit PWM output via I2C interface

• Built-in clock for fully free-running operation

• No continuous signal updates required from the microcontroller

• 5V compliant, allowing control from 3.3V Arduino boards while driving up to 6V outputs

• Adjustable PWM frequency up to approximately 1.6 kHz

• 12-bit resolution per channel for high-precision control

• Configurable push-pull or open-drain outputs

• Six address select pins for stacking up to 62 shields on a single I2C bus (up to 992 outputs total)

Hardware & Design Details

• 3-pin connectors arranged in groups of four for connecting up to 16 servos simultaneously

• Terminal block for external power input

• Optional 0.1″ breakout power connections

• Reverse polarity protection on the terminal block input

• Green and red power indicator LEDs

• 220-ohm series resistors on all output lines for protection and easy LED driving

• Dedicated space for adding a large capacitor on the V line if needed

• Solder jumpers for all six I2C address select pins

• Integrated 5 × 20 prototyping area for custom wiring or modifications

Included Components

• Fully assembled and tested 16-channel PWM servo shield

• Four 3 × 4 male straight headers for servo or LED connections

• One 2-pin terminal block for power input

• One strip of 0.1″ header for Arduino connection

Package Contents

• 1 × 16-Channel 12-Bit PWM Servo Shield with I2C Interface (PCA9685 Compatible)