katrinasiegfried

I got the head and tail to move properly with initiation of Alexa, but I still haven't resolved the interference that Donald also encountered (the head would come up but the mouth wouldn't move properly). I originally was using the 2-DC motor setup on the newer Billy Bass, but after blowing up a capacitor trying to figure out how to get the head/tail to play nice with the mouth motor, I ordered an older Billy Bass that has the 3-DC motor setup (one for head, one for tail, one for mouth) so I'll see if I have better luck. Trying to integrate a signal filter and ordered a different power supply and hoping that will resolve the interference. If I make any progress I will be sure to let you know and link you to the code!

I also built this and I was thinking the next step would be to solder the power supply from the 4 AA batteries in series on the back of the billy bass to the 5-12V motor power on the arduino shield. I think you can leave the VIN Jumper sleeve on and that keeps the power supply the same between the board and the motors, though ideally I think you would want to have them separate to protect the board. The 9V battery probably wont last long because it will deliver inconsistent current, I would recommend a lead acid battery maybe?

Ah ha! Thanks for the reply. In the interim since commenting I bumped up the current and added an audio gain, that seemed to solve the problem as you suggested. I also ordered a 9v 2A power supply in the event that the interference is due to a lack of current? I need to measure the current draw from the motors still, it's on the to-do list. Presently working on a filter for some of the low-signal noise and trying to address that pesky head/tail and mouth motor interference you were referencing. If I make considerable headway (get it... head motor, headway...) I will let you know!

So I am actually in the process of piecing this whole thing together using your directions! Everything you've suggested as worked thus far, however, I seem to be struggling with a lack of power to the mouth motor (or the head/tail motor I am playing with that as well). Any suggestions? The mouth just doesn't open up all the way. Thanks!