FAQ:Is it Possible to Limit Motor Voltage using CV5?

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CV5 sets the top speed of the motor. It does not adjust the voltage applied to the motor.

Multifunction decoders use Pulse Width Modulation to control the motor. The amplitude, VMotor, is fixed.

This voltage is switched on and off by the motor driver. The ratio of time between On and Off states is called the duty cycle. At 50%, PeriodON is equal to PeriodOFF, and if measured with a voltmeter, would be approximately 50% of VMotor.

By varying the ratio between the On and Off time, the speed of the motor can be controlled.

Installing a motor rated for voltages less than that of the decoder's output will result in its destruction, and possibly damage to the decoder's motor driver circuit.