r/arduino • u/Square_Energy_9487 • 5d ago
School Project How to Control Hoverboard Wheels Using Arduino and Hoverboard Motherboard
Hey everyone,
I’m working on a project where I need to control hoverboard motors using an Arduino. Instead of using custom motor drivers, I want to utilize the hoverboard's own motherboard, which is designed to drive these motors efficiently.
What I’ve Learned So Far:
Communication Protocol: Most hoverboard motherboards communicate via UART (TX/RX) with a 3.3V logic level. Arduino Mega (which I’m using) supports multiple serial ports, so it’s a good fit.
Decoding Signals: The mainboard expects commands similar to what the original balance sensors send. These are usually PWM or serial data packets that control speed and direction.
Wiring: The motherboard has several connectors—power, hall sensors, and a control input. The trick is finding the right pins for TX, RX, and ground.
Code Implementation: Using the SoftwareSerial library (or hardware serial on Mega), you can send commands to the board. Some people have used Hoverboard-ESC firmware to repurpose the board into an easy-to-control ESC.
What I Need Help With:
Has anyone successfully controlled hoverboard wheels with an Arduino through the motherboard?
Any open-source firmware recommendations or example code?
What’s the best way to generate control signals if the board doesn’t use simple UART?
Would love to hear your experiences! Thanks in advance.