Can the same driver be used on both 12V and 24V systems?
Yes. The ST42, KS250 and PT500 all three work on both 12V and 24V DC systems; the KS250 is defined as 12V/24V and the PT500 as 12-24V DC. However, the current limits are independent of voltage: the KS250 cannot exceed 15 A continuous at either voltage, and the PT500 cannot exceed 30 A continuous.
The supply range of all three models covers both 12V and 24V DC systems, so the same module can be used on either. The point not to be confused is the relationship between voltage and current.
The current limit does not change with voltage. The KS250 carries 15 A continuous at both 12V and 24V; the PT500 is 30 A in both cases. What changes is that you can obtain the same mechanical power at a higher voltage with a lower current. In an application moving to 24V, if the motor power stays the same the drawn current falls roughly by half and the thermal load on the driver decreases.
Things to check when changing voltage:
- Motor nameplate: supplying a 12V motor with 24V raises the speed and the current excessively. The motor's rated voltage must match the supply.
- Input signals: the signal levels applied to the KS250's IN1-IN5 and the PT500's A-E inputs must be consistent with the system voltage.
- AntiSwitch calibration: when the voltage changes the current profile changes; readjust the A1/A2 thresholds.
Full topic: DC Motor Driver Selection Guide