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If I have a stepper motor and driver that require 5V and 240mA and I supply 5V at 3A will my circuitry die?

I have heard the expression that a motor "draws" the current that is needs, but I don't really know if that's true, and if it is true, how's does that even work? It does not seem to be the same for voltage.

I am very beginner with electricity so simpler is preferred thank you all for taking the time to answer I really do appreciate it

Edit: Apparently this is a frequently asked question, view the answer here or go to this page to see one of the largest community discussions on the topic

KidWithComputer
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    This is actually our most frequent question of all time, https://electronics.stackexchange.com/questions/34745/choosing-power-supply-how-to-get-the-voltage-and-current-ratings – MarkU May 03 '21 at 23:34
  • @MarkU Thank you that post was a good discussion – KidWithComputer May 03 '21 at 23:44

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It's true that it is the LOAD that controls current flow, not the SOURCE

Here's an analogy...

On your house, there is a water valve that you use with a garden hose right? When you crack it open completely, you get a relatively light stream of water. Dad washes his car with it, maybe mom waters her roses.

However, if a fireman opens the hydrant at the roadside, you get enough water coming out to push a parked car backwards.

The source of the water pressure for both is the same water tower.

So to answer your question more exactly --- Your power supply COULD output 5V at 3A IF the load wants it. Your load doesn't. Your load will only allow the 240mA that it wants to pass through it.

Voltage = Water Pressure

Current = Quantity of water

Resistance = size of the opening we're letting the water out

Now personally I kinda HATE the water analogy because it doesn't describe many electrical phenomena, so don't take it too literally!!! Electricity does NOT flow like water. Yes there are electrons that move in the wire, but the REAL energy is in the electromagnetic field that surrounds the wire --- But don't get buzzed on that quite yet, you have alotta time ahead of you to get confused about this stuff ;)

Kyle B
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