🚀 go-pugleaf

"Lyndon" <webster@netlink.net.au> wrote in message
news:6864d8ba.0404270227.9c2fd1b@posting.google.com...
> Hi all,
>
> I have a large solenoid that draws a maximum of 15A at 24V.  I want to
> be able to vary the current flowing into the solenoid so I can vary
> the force it generates.  I want this to be driven by DAC that has an
> output voltage of 0-5V and minimal sourcing current ~100mA.
>
> I've been thinking about power FET's or a BJT's but I haven't got much
> experience in this sort of electronics so I really can't take it any
> further.  This system is all part of a feedback pedal design that will
> provide more resitance the further you push in the pedal.  We have a
> potentiometer measuring pedal displacement and this goes into a
> microcontroller, through a simple transfer function and produces the
> output signal which will drive the solenoid.  I'm stuck with the type
> of current driver or amp I should use.  Any advice, or links to
> circuits etc., will be of great assistance.
>
> Thanks,
> Lyndon.

Lyndon - have you considered using a PWM motor controller? For a quick test
Dick Smith do a $20, 20A controller which I think is PWMable. Perhaps others
may be able to expand on this approach.

regards
rob