# Equipping a microservo with Crocodile clips ## Materials * Cutting pliers or wire cutter * Tape (masking, duct tape, and/or packing tape) * 3 crocodile clips, yellow, red and black. * 1 micro servo 9g (SG90) ## Using a microservo with the @boardname@ The @boardname@ provides just enough current to operate the SG90 microservo. The servo requires 3 connections: GND, 3V and a logic pin. In this tutorial, we will equip the servo with crocodile clips to make it easier to use. However, you could also use a shield or female to crocodile clips to acheive the same effect. If you are running a class or activity, you should consider preparing all servos before hand. ### ~ hint Kitronik wrote an excellent in-depth guide about using servos with the @boardname@. Check it out at https://www.kitronik.co.uk/blog/using-bbc-microbit-control-servo/ . ### ~ ## Step 1: cutout the connector Using the cutting pliers, cut out the dark plastic connector. ![](/static/mb/projects/inchworm/servo1.jpg) ## Step 2: strip out cables Using the plier or a wire stripper, strip the plastic from the cables. ![](/static/mb/projects/inchworm/servotrim.jpg) ## Step 3: threading the servo cablers Thread the servo cables. ![](/static/mb/projects/inchworm/servo3.jpg) ## Step 4: crocobile clip claps Cut a crocodile cable in two and strip out the casing. If possible try to use the same cable colors as the servo! ![](/static/mb/projects/inchworm/servo4.jpg) ## Step 5: thread cables together Place the cables next to each other ![](/static/mb/projects/inchworm/servo5.jpg) ... and thread them together. ![](/static/mb/projects/inchworm/servo6.jpg) ### ~ hint It is very **important** to ensure that there is a good connection between the 2 cables. If the connection is weak, the microservo will not receive enough current and it will not work. **If you have access to a soldering iron, we strongly recommend to solder this connection.** ### ~ ## Step 4: protect the connection Protect the connection with electrical or duct tape. ![](/static/mb/projects/inchworm/servo7.jpg) ## Step 5: repeat for all cables Repeat the same process until all cables are connected. ![](/static/mb/projects/inchworm/servo8.jpg) ## Step 6: testing! It's time to test that your connection are all proper and that the servo will function **when the @boardname@ is powered by battery**. * Connect the microservo to the @boardname@. Black cable on ``GND``, red cable on ``3V`` and remaining cable on ``P0``. ![](/static/mb/projects/inchworm/circuit1.jpg) ### ~ hint When attaching the crocodile clips to the pins, don't hesitate to grab the side of the board with the jaws. ![](/static/mb/projects/inchworm/circuit2.jpg) ### ~ * Download the following code to your @boardname@ ```blocks basic.forever(() => { pins.servoWritePin(AnalogPin.P0, pins.map( input.acceleration(Dimension.X), -512, 512, 0, 180 )) }) ``` * When powered by USB, make sure that the servo moves when you tilt the board. * When powered by batteries **only**, make sure that the servo moves when you tilt the board. ## Troubleshooting If your servo seems to sutter and stay stuck at a particular position, it means that it is not receiving enough power. This is probably due to a weak connection or low battery level. Check each connection and check your batteries.