How to Match DC Motors With a Battery
- 1). Locate the DC motor's voltage requirement. This can usually be found in the motor's operating instructions or owner's manual. If neither is available, contact the manufacturer.
- 2). Determine the battery options. For example: a 6-volt DC motor's voltage requirement can be met using one 6-volt lantern battery; four 1.5-volt AAA, AA, C or D size batteries; or two 3-volt batteries which can be found in some countries.
- 3). Determine the current requirement. Look in the owner's manual to find the motor's current requirement.
- 4). Calculate the number of hours the motor will be in continuous use. Multiply the current requirement by the number of hours the motor will be in use. This value will either be in amp-hours or miliamp-hours. Batteries are rated by their amp-hours and miliamp-hours. Choose a battery or battery combination which meets or exceeds the amp-hour or miliamp-hour required to meet the needs of the motor.