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The performance of your actuator is tied to how you control it. The wrong controller can limit precision or even cause damage, while the right one unlocks smooth, reliable motion..
The right controller depends on what you're building and what your actuator can do. If you're using feedback actuators, you'll want something that takes advantage of position control. If you need precision, you'll want different features than someone who just needs simple on/off operation. And if you're running multiple actuators or integrating with other electronics, that changes things too.
At Actuonix, we've built (and carry) controllers for all these scenarios. This guide breaks down each option and tells you exactly when to use which one.
Linear Actuator Control (LAC) Board
The LAC board is our most versatile controller, period. It's built specifically for Actuonix P-series feedback actuators and gives you full position control through five different inputs: analog voltage, current, PWM, RC servo, and USB. You can adjust speed, set extension and retraction limits, and tune sensitivity using the onboard potentiometers until it behaves exactly how you want. Additional configuration changes can be made using our LAC Configuration Utility software, available for download on our website.
Since P-series actuators don't have end limit switches, the LAC board provides crucial stall protection that prevents damage when the actuator reaches its stroke limits.
Best for: Robotics projects, automated systems, and anything requiring repeatable positioning accuracy.
Why choose it: You're using a P-series feedback actuator and need real control over where it stops. The LAC board makes position control straightforward instead of painful.
EXT-R Control Board
The EXT-R is a compact, in-line controller with standard RC input and position feedback. Works with most RC receivers and microcontrollers like Raspberry Pi and Arduino. It includes position feedback-based stall protection, plus an adjustable potentiometer that lets you set a current limit between 0A and 1A to prevent overloading your actuator.
You can power it through the 3-wire RC connection or hook up an external supply. Compatible with any P16, T16, P8, or L8 model ending in -P, just be sure to select the correct option at checkout. Comes with a one-meter RC extension cable and heat shrink.
Best for: RC projects, embedded systems, and applications where you need position control with current limiting.
Why choose it: Position control and stall protection in a compact package that plugs directly into RC receivers and microcontrollers.
Pololu Tic T825 Stepper Motor Controller
The Tic T825 is made by Pololu and is excellent for stepper-based actuators. It supports analog voltage, RC servo, USB, TTL serial, and I²C control, plus you can program custom motion profiles with acceleration and deceleration curves. The controller includes over-temperature protection, under-voltage detection, and configurable current limiting up to 1.5A per phase.
Best for: CNC builds, advanced robotics, and systems already designed around stepper technology.
Why choose it: You need industrial-grade control over stepper actuators with flexible connectivity options and detailed motion profiling.
DPDT Relay Kit
The DPDT relay kit is an interface that lets you control -S series actuators using digital signals from microcontrollers like Arduino, Raspberry Pi, or other electronic devices. The relay handles the polarity switching automatically based on your input signal, and includes a fuse for circuit protection. It's the bridge between low-power control signals and higher-power actuators.
Best for: Maker projects, home automation, and any application where you're integrating actuators with microcontrollers or programmable logic controllers.
Why choose it: Simple way to interface digital control systems with actuators without building your own H-bridge circuit.
Rocker Switches
Sometimes you just need a switch. We offer both momentary (motion only while you're holding it) and maintained (flip once, it keeps moving until you flip it back) versions. Wire it up, flip it, and the actuator moves. That's it. Available in different styles and rated for various current loads depending on your actuator's power requirements.
Best for: Automotive applications, DIY builds, or anywhere simple extend/retract control does the job.
Why choose it: Dead simple. Cheap. Works every time.
Push Button Switches
Push buttons give you the same basic functionality as rocker switches but in a smaller package. One button extends, one retracts. They're easier to mount in tight spaces or when you want a cleaner look. Available in various mounting styles including panel mount and inline options.
Best for: Hidden compartments, locking mechanisms, or anywhere space is tight.
Why choose it: Compact, easy to install, and you can mount them almost anywhere.
Remote Control Kit
Our remote kit lets you control actuators wirelessly from about 100 feet away using the included key fobs. The system includes a receiver module that wires into your actuator's power supply and handles the polarity switching. Each kit comes with two key fobs, and the receiver can learn additional remotes if you need more control points. Works with -S series actuators.
Best for: RV slide-outs, off-road vehicle accessories, hidden panels, and anywhere running control wires would be difficult.
Why choose it: Wireless control without dealing with Bluetooth pairing or app nonsense. Just press the button. Installation is cleaner since you only need power wires to the actuator location.
Timer Relay
The timer relay automates actuator motion based on time intervals. Set your delays and run durations using the onboard controls, and it handles repetitive cycles without any input from you. You can configure on-time, off-time, and number of cycles. Most models support both continuous cycling and single-shot operation modes. Good for anything that needs to happen on a schedule.
Best for: Greenhouse ventilation, automatic feeders, livestock door openers, and repetitive processes that run on a schedule.
Why choose it: Set-it-and-forget-it automation without writing code or dealing with complicated controllers. Runs independently once programmed.
Controller Comparison Table
| Controller | Compatible Actuators | Control Method | Complexity | Position Feedback |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LAC Board | P-series | Voltage, Current, PWM, RC, USB | Medium | Yes |
| EXT-R Board | P16, T16, P8, L8 (-P models) | RC, Microcontroller | Medium | Yes |
| Tic T825 | Stepper actuators | USB, Serial, I²C | High | Yes (via stepper) |
| DPDT Relay Kit | S-series | Digital signals | Low-Medium | No |
| Rocker Switch | S-series | Manual | Low | No |
| Push Button | S-series | Manual | Low | No |
| Remote Control Kit | S-series | Wireless (RF) | Low | No |
| Timer Relay | S-series | Automated timing | Low | No |
FAQ: Choosing the Right Actuator Controller
Can I use more than one controller with a single actuator?
No. Connecting multiple controllers to the same actuator creates electrical conflicts. If you need multiple control methods, you'll need a selector switch or custom wiring to ensure only one controller is active at a time.
Which controller is best for beginners?
Start with an S-series actuator and a rocker switch or push button switch. They require minimal wiring, no programming, and they work immediately. Once you understand how your actuator behaves, you can always upgrade to something more sophisticated.
How do I choose between the LAC board and EXT-R board?
The LAC is much more robust and gives you more control over your actuator. If you need all five input options and maximum flexibility, go with the LAC. If you're primarily working with RC systems or microcontrollers and want something more compact and affordable, the EXT-R is the better choice. Both offer position control and stall protection for P-series actuators.
Can I control multiple actuators with one remote control kit?
No, the remote control kit is only designed to power a single actuator.
Can I use the EXT-R board with different actuator models?
The EXT-R works with P16, T16, P8, and L8 models ending in -P.
Is the timer relay programmable like the LAC board?
No. The timer relay handles timing parameters, but it doesn't offer position feedback or precision control. It's for timed automation, not positional accuracy.
What's the difference between -S and -P series actuators when it comes to controllers?
-P series actuators have position feedback, but no limit switches. They are intended to be used with our LAC board as it offers stall protection to avoid damaging the actuator. When using a P-series actuator without an LAC, it is highly recommended to use an external limit switch kit to avoid running the actuator into a hard stop. -S series actuators are simpler and work with any controller, but you won't get position feedback—they just extend or retract until they hit their limit switches or you cut power.
Browse Actuators From Actuonix Today
Hopefully, this article has helped you better understand our actuator controller offerings and the differences between them. View our collection of actuators by model or industry today. As a leading manufacturer and innovator in the micro motion marketplace, Actuonix services companies big and small in a number of industries including aerospace, medical, robotics, and more. Get in touch with us today to submit an order or to submit an inquiry.
