Are you struggling with short circuit issues in your Arduino-based HW4 hardware modules?
In this post, we explain the most common causes of short circuits in HW4 hardware setups and how to eliminate them using correct cable routing, component placement, and power isolation techniques.
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🛠️ Key Prevention Tips:
1. Inspect Servo Power Cables:
Avoid sharp bends and overlapping grounds. Use proper cable thickness for higher current loads.
2. Sensor & Servo Separation:
If you use analog sensors (like IR or ultrasonic), don’t share the same GND with high-power servos. Use opto-isolators or separate voltage rails.
3. Check PCB Soldering Points:
Cold solder joints and bridged pins are major short-circuit sources. Use a multimeter for pre-power continuity checks.
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✅ Additional Tools and Resources:
🔧 HW4-Compatible Circuit Diagram
🔋 Servo Power Distribution Plan
🔌 5V–12V Regulator Isolation Example
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HW4 Hardware – Short Circuit Prevention and Safe Wiring Guide
Full Illustrated Schematic & Tips for Arduino-Based Robotics
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📘 İçindekiler (Table of Contents):
1. Introduction
2. Common Causes of Short Circuits in HW4
3. Circuit Design Best Practices
4. Servo Power Separation Diagram
5. Recommended Components
6. Wiring Mistakes to Avoid
7. Final Schematic (Illustrated)
8. Notes for Breadboard and PCB Usage
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🧾 1. Introduction
HW4 hardware modules are popular in robotics and IoT projects. However, improper wiring or shared power sources often lead to short circuits, sensor failures, or complete board resets. This guide will help you avoid these issues.
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⚠️ 2. Common Causes of Short Circuits
Shared GND Lines for high-current and signal-level devices
Low-quality jumper cables with exposed ends
USB-only power supply for servo motors
Unregulated external power input
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🛠️ 3. Best Practices
Use separate power sources for logic and motors (e.g., 5V logic, 6V servo supply)
Add decoupling capacitors (100nF) near power pins
Always include a flyback diode if using relay modules
Avoid connecting multiple GND lines from different power sources
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🔌 4. Servo Power Separation – Diagram
[Diagram: Arduino UNO + HW4 board + Servo x2 + Sensor (IR/Ultrasonic)]
Legend:
Red: VCC
Black: GND
Blue: Signal
Green: Separate 5V supply (for servos)
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📋 5. Recommended Components
Component Specs Notes
Capacitor 100nF Ceramic x4
Decoupling near sensor power
Diode 1N4007 For relay module flyback
Wire Gauge 22 AWG or thicker
For servo power lines
External Supply 5V 2A adapter or
battery pack to servo motors
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❌ 6. Common Mistakes to Avoid
Connecting 5V from USB directly to servo power
Using breadboard for high-current motors
Powering sensors and motors from same GND without isolation
No testing continuity before power-up
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📷 7. Final Schematic (Illustrated)
📝 8. Notes for Breadboard/PCB Users
Breadboards are not suitable for >300mA current. For permanent setups, use a PCB or screw terminal breakout boards. Always test for shorts using a multimeter before connecting power.
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📎 Attach
Designed for HW4 board, compatible with Arduino UNO, Nano, and Mega
Created by Popular Elektronik (popularelektronik.blogspot.com)
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📢 Call-to-Action:
If you’re working on robotics or IoT projects using HW4 modules, this guide will save your components from burnout.
🧠 Learn how to build short-circuit-free setups with ease.
🇹🇷 Yazının Türkçe versiyonu
(https://popularelektronik.blogspot.com/2025/07/hw4-donanmnda-ksa-devre-sorunlarna-kars.html)