What to do with regenerative current while driver is un-powered but the motors are turned

Sometimes you will want to move your robot or vehicle while it is un-powered. The current generated when the motors spin could have the potential to harm the Sabertooth or SyRen motor driver.

To alleviate this, you can build a simple circuit using a switch and diode. The diode should be 40-60V, ~5A. See attached diagram for circuit. Use a standard diode.

[Battery disconnect switches should be rated for the max current of the particular motor driver you're using. For example, a dual 32A Sabertooth (64A peak rating per channel) requires a 128A switch.]

Attachments:
regen_current_sink.png