Can't move servo with my Nano

Question

I'm new to this kind of thing. My code works on my Uno without problem with two separate servos. I've ensured that it's not any faulty leads, having tried a few other circuits with LEDs, buttons and potentiometers as well, simply switching between my Uno (which works fine) and the Nano.

I've chosen the correct port, chipset and board each time and the code uploads fine to the Nano. The Nano simply refuses to do anything I tell it.

• Digital PIN of servo goes to designated D5 pin.

• Ground goes to the GND near the Analog pins (shouldn't matter which I imagine).

• Power goes to 5V.

The code above simply tells the servo to go to a certain degree when uploaded. Could anybody tell me why the servo will not move at all with the Nano? I just bought it and I haven't hooked up any power to it other than the USB, surely it isn't fried. It lights up and flashes as well.

#include <Servo.h>              
Servo my_servo;               

void setup() {
  my_servo.attach(5);
  // Pin definition
}

void loop() {
  my_servo.write(60);
  // No. of degrees
}

Answer 1

Connect a multi meter in series with the servo connection from the uno to the servo and see how much current it draws when working (probably less than 20ma, definitely less than 40ma). Then connect it in series with the nano and see what happens. If you get no current then you're activating the wrong pin.

If you see a current draw but the servo doesn't move then you need to use some sort of switch (transistor, FET, relay) to switch the servo. You could also compare the voltage and current read off the nano to the requirement in the datasheet for the servo. Again, this may lead you to needing a switch.

Edit based on comments above... Also try your 5v directly to the servo, then add a forward biased diode in series which should simulate the voltage drop to the level of your nano (0.4-0.6v). If the servo doesn't work with the diode and does without then you can be pretty sure the issue is insufficient volts (which is likely given the rating of 4.8v you mentioned in comments).

Answer 2

I has the same problem. Example: With Arduino Uno only conected to 5V from PC, the servos run perfectly, but with Nano no, maybe the servos try to move, but not. I charged the skecth on the arduino Nano and deesconect form pc, and then i supply Arduino Nano with baterry Li-ion 2s. In another words, for servos you must to supply over 6 volts. Be careful because the max voltage of servos,can be 6 volts, you can use the regulator of Arduino, severals servos produce overheating in this regulator. Yes my english is noob.