To control an Arduino motor speed, you use Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) via the analogWrite(pin, value) function. This method simulates varying voltages by rapidly switching a digital pin ON and OFF. How PWM Works
Instead of putting out a steady analog voltage (like 2.5V), an Arduino delivers either 0V or 5V. By changing the ratio of time the signal is “HIGH” (ON) versus “LOW” (OFF) within a tiny fraction of a second, it alters the overall average power sent to the motor. This ratio is called the Duty Cycle:
0% Duty Cycle (analogWrite(0)): The signal is always OFF (0V). The motor stops.
50% Duty Cycle (analogWrite(127)): The signal is ON half the time. The motor runs at roughly half speed.
100% Duty Cycle (analogWrite(255)): The signal is always ON (5V). The motor runs at full speed. Core Requirements Motor Speed and Direction Control PWM
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