The 57AIM30 Gold Motor is the recommended motor for all new OSSM builds
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:
| Improvement | Benefit |
|---|---|
| 60% shorter | More compact builds, easier mounting |
| 50% lighter | Reduced overall weight |
| 30% higher peak force | Better performance under load |
| ~20% cheaper | Lower build cost |
| Better over-torque handling | Configurable torque reduction vs hard disable |
| Drop-in replacement | Compatible with existing NEMA23 hardware |
Sourcing Your Motor
From Research and Desire (Recommended)
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:
| Specification | Required Value |
|---|---|
| Speed rating | 1500 RPM |
| Interface | RS485 |
| Model | 57AIM30 |
Do not purchase the 3000 RPM or CANBUS versions—these are incompatible with OSSM.
Avoid the 60AIM motor. The 60AIM has a larger NEMA24 (60 mm) frame size that does not fit the standard OSSM printed parts, which are designed for NEMA23 (57 mm) motors. Using a 60AIM requires custom mounting hardware and modifications to the actuator housing.
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 Version | Compatibility |
|---|---|
| V2.3 or newer | Fully compatible, capacitor included |
| V2.2 | Compatible with simple PH-4 cable wiring |
| Older than V2.2 | Requires 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.