The N20 Gear Motor is a miniature high-performance DC motor featuring a precision metal gearbox. The 3V 100RPM variant is a popular "middle-ground" choice for low-voltage projects, offering a balance between decent rotational speed and mechanical torque. It is specifically designed to run efficiently on 3V power sources, such as two AA batteries or a single lithium-polymer (LiPo) cell.

Specifications

• Rated Voltage: 3V DC (Operating range: 1.5V – 6V).
• No-Load Speed: 100 RPM (at 3V).
• Shaft Type: D-shape (flat side for non-slip attachment).
• Shaft Diameter: 3mm.
• Shaft Length: 10mm.
• Gearbox Material: All-metal (Precision brass and steel).
• No-Load Current: ~ 30mA.
• Stall Current: ~ 400mA (at 3V).
• Stall Torque: ~ 0.8 kgcm to 1.2 kgcm.

Features

• Optimized for 3V: Reaches its full rated speed and torque at low voltages, making it ideal for compact, battery-powered IoT devices and micro-robots.
• Durable Metal Gearbox: Unlike plastic versions, the metal gears can withstand sudden stops and higher loads without stripping, ensuring a long operational life.
• Compact Form Factor: The standardized N20 dimensions allow it to be swapped with other RPM versions (30, 50, 600, etc.) without changing your chassis design.
• Reliable D-Shaft: The 10mm shaft provides ample space for wheels or couplers, while the D-profile ensures that set screws have a flat surface to bite into.

Pin and Connection Guide

• Terminals: Two small solder tabs at the rear.
• Bidirectional: Swap the positive and negative wires to change the direction of rotation.
• Speed Control: Compatible with low-voltage PWM motor drivers like the MX1508 or DRV8833.

Common Applications

• Micro-Robotics: Standard drive motor for small-wheeled robots and line followers.
• Smart Home Locks: Actuating the internal latch mechanism in battery-powered smart locks.
• Automatic Dispensers: Powering small screw-conveyors or rotating carousels for pill or candy dispensers.
• Precision Toys: High-end model trains, cars, and animated figurines that require reliable movement.

Usage Tips

• Mounting Brackets: Use a dedicated N20 bracket to secure the motor. Avoid applying pressure directly to the gearbox housing, as it can misalign the internal gears.
• Voltage Flexibility: Running this motor at 6V will roughly double the speed to 200 RPM and increase torque, but it will also increase heat and wear.
• Wiring: Use 26AWG to 30AWG wire. The terminals are fragile, so applying a drop of hot glue or heat-shrink tubing after soldering can prevent the tabs from snapping off due to vibration.
• Maintenance: The gearbox is pre-lubricated. If used in sandy or dusty environments, try to shield the gearbox to prevent grit from entering the gears.