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The 57AIM30 Gold Motor is the current standard motor for OSSM builds, offering the best combination of performance, size, and cost.

Purchase Gold Motor

Available pre-programmed from Research and Desire, ready to use with your OSSM.

Why the Gold Motor?

The 57AIM30 replaced the legacy iHSV57 motor as the build standard due to significant improvements across all key metrics:
ImprovementBenefit
60% shorterMore compact builds, easier mounting
50% lighterReduced overall weight
30% higher peak forceBetter performance under load
~20% cheaperLower build cost
Better over-torque handlingConfigurable torque reduction vs hard disable
Drop-in replacementCompatible with existing NEMA23 hardware

Sourcing Your Motor

Motors from Research and Desire are:
  • Pre-programmed for OSSM
  • Tested and verified
  • Ready to install
No additional programming required when purchasing from R&D.

From Other Suppliers

If sourcing a generic 57AIM30, verify these specifications:
SpecificationRequired Value
Speed rating1500 RPM
InterfaceRS485
Model57AIM30
Do not purchase the 3000 RPM or CANBUS versions—these are incompatible with OSSM.
Motors from third-party suppliers require programming before use. See the programming guide for instructions.

PCB Compatibility

The Gold Motor’s improved efficiency generates more regenerative power during certain motion conditions, requiring additional capacitance on the PCB.
PCB VersionCompatibility
V2.3 or newerFully compatible, capacitor included
V2.2Compatible with simple PH-4 cable wiring
Older than V2.2Requires soldering wires to 10-pin header
If using a PCB older than V2.3, add a 1500µF capacitor (minimum 50V) to handle regenerative braking. Without this capacitor, voltage spikes may damage your electronics.

Technical Specifications

Advantages

  • Compact size: 40% of the length of the 180W standard motor
  • Lightweight: 50% of the weight of the 180W motor
  • High performance: 30% higher peak force in real-world testing
  • Configurable protection: Reduces torque output instead of disabling on overload
  • Hardware compatible: Same mounting pattern and shaft diameter as iHSV57

Considerations

The motor’s efficiency means it generates more power during deceleration. PCB V2.3 includes the necessary capacitor; older boards require manual addition.
The Gold Motor uses RS485 digital communication. This is handled by the OSSM PCB V2.2 and newer—no user configuration needed.
Default firmware settings work for most users. Advanced users can tune motor behavior through the programming tool, but incorrect settings may cause the motor to disable under torque.
The Gold Motor’s maximum speed exceeds the OSSM software’s default speed limit. Standard users won’t notice any difference; only custom firmware modifications might encounter this limit.

Motor Programming

Motors must be programmed to set steps per revolution to 800 for OSSM compatibility.
  • R&D motors: Pre-programmed, no action needed
  • Third-party motors: Require programming via USB to RS485 adapter

Programming Guide

Complete instructions for programming your motor with the web-based tool.

Software Compatibility

The OSSM firmware supports closed-loop servo motors and is tested with:
  • 57AIM30 (Gold Motor) — Recommended
  • 42AIM30 (Round Motor variant)
  • iHSV57 (Legacy motor)
All supported motors use the NEMA23 form factor. Using stepper motors or other motor types requires custom hardware design and advanced firmware modifications.

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