The Bartels mp-Multiboard2 evaluation board and its compatible mp-Drivers provide a flexible, all-in-one solution for controlling Bartels micropumps in various microfluidic applications. The mp-Multiboard2 is designed to work effortlessly with Bartels micropumps and accessories, offering precise control over multiple pumps, valves, and sensors. Paired with the right mp-Driver, it can handle diverse tasks such as adjusting flow rates, managing pressure, and even pumping viscous fluids with ease.
Understanding the differences between the various mp-Drivers and how they integrate with the mp-Multiboard2 is essential for optimizing performance based on specific application needs. In this blog post, we will list the different components of the mp-Multiboard2 and provide a comparison of the different mp-Drivers and their respective functionalities, helping you select the right driver for your setup.
Mp-Multiboard2
The mp-Multiboard2 has the ability to control up to six micropumps, valves, pressure sensors, and other analog devices. It is 71 mm wide and 142.5 mm long, equipped with a preprogrammed ESP32 microcontroller and powered via a USB connection, ensuring plug-and-play functionality.
One of the key advantages of the mp-Multiboard2 is its compatibility with a variety of pump drivers, allowing it to cater to different performance needs depending on the application. Whether you require high flow rates, low flow rates, or the ability to handle viscous fluids, the Multiboard2 can be configured accordingly by attaching the appropriate driver.
Above is an annotated diagram of the mp-Multiboard2, highlighting its connectors and ports, and below is a table detailing the different controllers compatible with the Multiboard2.
| Connector Number | Connector Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1.1, 1.2, 1.3 | CH1/CH2, CH3/CH4, CH5/CH6 | Three 8-pin connectors for pump cable harness. Each cable harness has two FFC connectors on the other end to connect to the BP7 (or mp6) micropumps. |
| 2 | Mp-HighDriver4 | Mp-Highdriver4 socket |
| 3 | Mp-Highdriver / Mp-Lowdriver | Mp-Highdriver and Mp-Lowdriver socket |
| 4 | Mp-Driver | Mp-Driver socket |
| 5 | Mp-Valvedriver | Mp-Valvedriver socket |
| 6 | Valves | 5-pin connector for active valves: BV1101 or SMV-2R-BN1F |
| 7, 8, 9 | Analog | 4-pin Grove connector for analog sensors with 5V supply voltage |
| 10 | SPI | 8-pin connector for an SPI sensor |
| 11 | I²C 3.3V | 6-pin connector for an I²C flow sensor: SLF3S-1300F, SLF3S-0600F |
| 12 | I²C 3.3V | 4-pin Grove connector for I²C sensors with 3.3V supply voltage: SDP810 Gasflow Sensor |
| 13, 14 | I²C 5V | 4-pin Grove connector for I²C sensors with 5V supply voltage: Honeywell ABP, SFS01 Gasflow Sensor |
| 15 | UART | 4-pin Grove connector for UART devices with 5V supply voltage |
| 16 | Microcontroller | ESP32 with Multiboard2 Firmware |
| 17 | USB-C | External 5V power supply connector |
| 18 | Power | Barrel power supply connector |
Mp-Drivers
Bartels offers a range of drivers that complement the mp-Multiboard2, each designed to meet specific operational requirements. These drivers, including the mp-Lowdriver, mp-Driver, mp-Highdriver, and mp-Highdriver4, offer varying levels of control over flow rate, pressure, and fluid type. Whether you are working with low flow rates, high flow rates, or viscous fluids, there is a driver to match your specific needs.
The mp-Drivers differ primarily in the amplitude and frequency they can generate, which directly impacts the performance of the micropumps. For instance, the mp-Lowdriver is ideal for applications requiring precision with low flow rates, while the mp-Driver excels when handling viscous fluids. The mp-Highdriver and mp-Highdriver4 are perfect for applications demanding high flow rates, with the Highdriver4 capable of controlling up to four micropumps simultaneously.
The table below compares the key features of each driver, making it easy to identify which one is best suited for your specific microfluidic setup. This comparison will guide you in selecting the appropriate driver based on flow rate, fluid type, and other operational parameters.
| Pump driver | Mp-Highdriver4 | Mp-Highdriver | Mp-Driver | Mp-Lowdriver |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Illustration |  |  |  |  |
| Dimensions without ESD coating (mm3) | 38.1 x 17.78 x 6 | 10.16 x 25.4 x 4.9 | 10.5 x 20.5 x 5.2 | 10.16 x 25.4 x 5.2 |
| Dimensions with ESD coating (mm3) | 38.1 x 17.78 x 6.6 | 10.16 x 25.4 x 6.3 | 10.5 x 20.5 x 7.3 | 10.16 x 25.4 x 6.3 |
| Power supply | 2.7 - 5.5 VDC | 2.7 - 5.5 VDC | 2.5 - 5.5 VDC | 3 - 5.5 VDC |
| Typical current consumption (at 5 V) | 75 mA | 40 mA | 30 mA | 40 mA |
| Pin arrangement | DIL 28; horizontal 2.54 mm, vertical 6 mm | DIL 18; horizontal 2.54 mm, vertical 7.62 mm | DIL 14; horizontal 2.54 mm, vertical 7.62 mm | DIL 18; horizontal 2.54 mm, vertical 7.62 mm |
| Amplitude range | 10 - 250 Vpp | 10 - 250 Vpp | 85 - 250 Vpp | 0 - 150 Vpp |
| Frequency range | 50 - 800 Hz | 50 - 800 Hz | 25 - 226 Hz | 8 - 2000 Hz |
| Signal form | sine, rectangular, trapezoid | sine, rectangular, trapezoid | rectangular | sine, custom |
| Thermal shutdown temperature | 160°C | 160°C | 80°C | - |
| Maximum number of pumps controlled | up to 4 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Supported Channels | CH1 to CH4 | CH5 only | CH6 only | CH5 only |
| Optimal Use Case | Up to four micropumps with higher flow rate applications | Higher flow rates | Viscous fluids | Low flow rate applications with high amplitude resolution |
Mp-Valvedriver
The "Valve Driver" socket on the mp-Multiboard2 enables control of up to two valves using a current-driven dual valve driver. It ensures a constant current supply to both valves, which are digitally controlled via the Multiboard2. Depending on the driver used, the system can work with two Takasago SMV-2R-BN1F valves (using the mp-ValvedriverT) or Memetis BV1101 shape memory alloy valves (using the mp-ValvedriverM). These valves are normally closed, meaning they remain in a closed position when power is not supplied.
Below is a comparison table of the two valve drivers—mp-ValvedriverT and mp-ValvedriverM—highlighting their key specifications.
| Valve driver | Mp-ValvedriverT | Mp-ValvedriverM |
|---|---|---|
| Illustration |  |  |
| Dimensions without ESD coating (mm3) | 17.78 x 15.24 x 1.6 | 17.78 x 15.24 x 1.6 |
| Power supply | 4.5 - 5.5 VDC | 4.5 - 5.5 VDC |
| Typical current consumption at VCC = 5V for one valve | 70 mA | 150 mA |
| Typical current consumption at VCC = 5V for two valves | 140 mA | 300 mA |
| Maximum number of valves controlled | 2 | 2 normally closed valves or 1 bi-stable valve |
| Valves used | Takasago SMV-2R-BN1F | Memetis BV 1101 |
Conclusion
The Bartels mp-Multiboard2, combined with its range of drivers and valve drivers, provides an advanced and flexible solution for controlling Bartels micropumps and accessories. Whether you’re managing flow rates, handling viscous fluids, or integrating multiple micropumps, this system offers precision, adaptability, and ease of use in various microfluidic applications.
For a more detailed overview of the BP7 micropump, its full range of features, and system components, check out our Bartels BP7 overview blog. You’ll also find other helpful guides in this series, including detailed posts on topics like instructions and tips for appropriate handling of the BP7 micropumps and the chemical compatibility of PPSU, which is the body material of BP7 micropumps.
To stay updated on any changes, updates, or upgrades to Bartels products, including datasheets and technical specifications, please refer to the Bartels Mikrotechnik download area.
📧 If you have any questions or feedback, please feel free to contact us at support@darwin-microfluidics.com.
