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  • SPARK MAX Data Port Pinout
  • SPARK MAX Data Port Features
  • Limit Switch Inputs
  • Quadrature Encoder Input
  • Analog Input
  • Multi-function Pin
  • Power Rails
  • SPARK MAX Data Port Accessories
  • Alternate Encoder Adapter
  • Absolute Encoder Adapter
  • Data Port Breakout Board

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  1. SPARK MAX Motor Controller
  2. SPARK MAX Specifications

Data Port

PreviousEncoder PortNextSPARK MAX Getting Started

Last updated 2 months ago

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SPARK MAX Data Port Pinout

Located on the top of the SPARK MAX, the Data Port allows for extra sensor input and future feature development. The connector details can be found below.

Connector Pin

Pin Type

Pin Function

1

Power

+3.3V

2

Power

+5V

3

Analog

Analog Input

4

Digital

Forward Limit Switch Input

5

Digital

Encoder B

6

Digital

Multi-function Pin

7

Digital

Encoder A

8

Digital

Reverse Limit Switch Input

9

Digital

Encoder C / Index

10

Ground

Ground

SPARK MAX Data Port Features

Limit Switch Inputs

SPARK MAX has two limit switch inputs that, when triggered, can independently prevent motion in both the forward and reverse directions. By default, when the pin for the corresponding direction is grounded, SPARK MAX will override any input commands for that direction and force the output into the neutral state. Input commands for the opposite direction will still be processed unless the corresponding limit signal is also triggered.

The default polarity is compatible with Normally Open (NO) style limit switches, whose contacts are shorted together when the switch is pressed. The Limit Switch Inputs can be configured for the opposite polarity using the USB or CAN interfaces. When configured for the opposite polarity, Normally Closed (NC), the limit will be triggered when the pin is left disconnected from ground. In other words, connecting the pin to ground will release the limit. The following table shows these configurations in detail:

Limit Switch Operation

Quadrature Encoder Input

When in Brushed Mode, an external encoder can be connected through either the Data Port or the Encoder Port.

The SPARK MAX encoder signals are not pulled high internally. This is to ensure the maximum compatibility with different types of encoders.

Analog Input

The Analog Port on the SPARK MAX can measure voltages up to 3.3V with 12-bit resolution. The SPARK MAX Data Port Breakout includes a 5V to 3.3V amplifier circuit so that 5V signals can be sensed with the Analog Input pin.

Analog input is supported on firmware versions 1.4.0 and newer.

Multi-function Pin

This pin is reconfigured when the SPARK MAX is configured in Alternate Encoder Mode.

Power Rails

SPARK MAX Data Port Accessories

Alternate Encoder Adapter

Features

  • JST PH 6-pin connector

  • Pinout compatible with REV Through Bore Encoder

  • Index Signal/Absolute PWM Pulse selection switch

  • Selects which signal is connected to pin 4 of the Data Port

  • Solder pads

  • Analog Input

  • 3.3V and 5.0V Power

  • Ground

Specifications

  • 1 x JST PH, 6-pin connector

  • 1 x 14 Position 2 Row Receptacle Connector 0.050"

Absolute Encoder Adapter

Features

  • JST PH 6-pin connector

  • Pinout Compatible with REV Through Bore Encoder

  • Solder pads

  • Limit Switches

  • Ground

Specifications

  • 1 x JST PH, 6-pin connector

  • 1 x 14 Position 2 Row Receptacle Connector 0.050"

Data Port Breakout Board

Features

  • Solder pads for every Data Port pin

  • Analog input 5V to 3.3V converter

    • Built-in amplifier maps 0V - 5V analog signals to the native 0V - 3.3V range of the SPARK MAX Analog Input

    • Configurable resistors can bypass the amplifier (move R3 to R4 position)

  • Pass-through Data Port connector

    • Connect other sensors with data port-compatible cables while using this breakout

  • Mounts directly to SPARK MAX

    • No need for a data port cable

    • Securely mounts to the SPARK MAX zip-tie notches

Using the () makes interfacing with the SPARK MAX Data Port easier.

The Quadrature Encoder Input on the Data Port is compatible with standard quadrature encoder signals, usually labeled as channel A, channel B, and Index. SPARK MAX shares these signals with the Encoder Port on the output side of the controller, therefore the Index signal is shared with the third brushless encoder signal C. When in Brushless Mode, these Data Port pins cannot be used with an external encoder. See for information on how to configure the SPARK MAX to accept an alternative encoder source when running in Brushless Mode.

The SPARK MAX Data Port can provide both 3.3V and 5V power to connected devices. Please check for details on the supply current capabilities of both rails.

The SPARK MAX Alternate Encoder Adapter () enables the use of an alternative encoder source different from the default. This is especially useful when running one of the NEO Brushless Motors, as the default encoder port is occupied by the built-in NEO hall sensors. Please see the Alternate Encoder Mode section in the for more information.

The SPARK MAX Absolute Encoder Adapter () connects the Absolute Duty Cycle output of the Through Bore Encoder to the correct SPARK MAX Data Port pins, leaving the incremental quadrature pins disconnected.

The SPARK MAX Data Port Breakout Board () makes it easy to connect external sensors to the SPARK MAX Data Port.

Alternate Encoder Mode
REV-11-1881-PK2
SPARK MAX User's Manual
REV-11-3326
REV-11-1278
REV-11-1278
SPARK MAX Data Port Breakout Board
Data Port Specifications