Laser Vortex

Step 11 Power for the Motor

These small motors are usually powered by two AA batteries, 1.5 volts each for a total of 3 volts. No where near the full speed of this motor is needed so we will be using one AA giving it 1.5 volts. If you know how to reduce the voltage down further it is recommended so vibration of the unbalanced cap in the motor is reduced along with noise but this how-to will not be going into that much detail.

The terminals on the motor for supplying power can be soldered to electrical wire or simple alligator clamps could be attached to make the connection if soldering is not an option. A battery holder from Radio Shack or an electrical shop is best for holding the wire on either end of the battery but I have gone as far as using an old remote control to hold the wires in place if there wasn't one at hand. Polarity (the + and - side of the battery) is not important, the motor just need to spin in either direction. If you have not mounted the bracket with attached motor to something like a scrap piece of wood, now is a good time to hold the device in place before applying power.

Once the electrical connections are made you will likely see why we don't want it to spin so fast. These cheap motors are fast and loud especially when they have not been loaded down with a larger object to move.