How to Use MDDRC10 10Amp 7V-30V DC Motor Driver for R/C (2 Channels): Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The MDDRC10 is a dual-channel DC motor driver manufactured by Cytron, designed to control two DC motors with a current rating of up to 10 Amps per channel. It operates within a voltage range of 7V to 30V, making it suitable for a wide variety of applications. This motor driver is specifically optimized for remote-controlled (R/C) systems, offering seamless integration with standard R/C receivers.

• Remote-controlled vehicles (e.g., cars, boats, and robots)
• DIY robotics projects
• Automation systems requiring precise motor control
• Educational and prototyping purposes

The MDDRC10 features a set of connectors for power, motor outputs, and control signals. Below is the pin configuration:

1. Power Supply: Connect a DC power source (7V to 30V) to the VIN+ and VIN- terminals. Ensure the power supply can handle the current requirements of the motors.
2. Motor Connections: Connect the DC motors to the M1+/M1- and M2+/M2- terminals. Ensure the polarity matches your desired motor direction.
3. Control Signal: Connect the CH1 and CH2 pins to the PWM signal outputs of your R/C receiver or microcontroller. Use the GND pin to establish a common ground.
4. Operation: Send PWM signals to the CH1 and CH2 pins to control the speed and direction of the motors. A neutral PWM signal (e.g., 1500µs) stops the motor, while higher or lower signals control forward or reverse motion.

• Heat Dissipation: The MDDRC10 can handle high currents, but prolonged operation at peak current may cause overheating. Use proper ventilation or a heatsink if necessary.
• Power Supply: Ensure the power supply voltage matches the motor's operating range and the MDDRC10's input range.
• Signal Compatibility: The MDDRC10 is designed for standard R/C PWM signals. If using a microcontroller, ensure the PWM frequency is within the supported range (50Hz to 330Hz).
• Polarity: Double-check all connections to avoid damage due to reverse polarity.

Below is an example of controlling the MDDRC10 with an Arduino UNO:

// Example code to control MDDRC10 with Arduino UNO
// This code generates PWM signals for two motors connected to MDDRC10

#include <Servo.h> // Library to generate R/C PWM signals

Servo motor1; // Create Servo object for Motor 1
Servo motor2; // Create Servo object for Motor 2

void setup() {
  motor1.attach(9); // Attach Motor 1 control to pin 9
  motor2.attach(10); // Attach Motor 2 control to pin 10

  // Set both motors to neutral (stop)
  motor1.writeMicroseconds(1500); // Neutral signal for Motor 1
  motor2.writeMicroseconds(1500); // Neutral signal for Motor 2
}

void loop() {
  // Example: Move Motor 1 forward and Motor 2 backward
  motor1.writeMicroseconds(1700); // Forward signal for Motor 1
  motor2.writeMicroseconds(1300); // Reverse signal for Motor 2

  delay(2000); // Run motors for 2 seconds

  // Stop both motors
  motor1.writeMicroseconds(1500); // Neutral signal for Motor 1
  motor2.writeMicroseconds(1500); // Neutral signal for Motor 2

  delay(2000); // Wait for 2 seconds
}

1. Motors Not Running

   • Cause: Incorrect PWM signal or no signal.
   • Solution: Verify the PWM signal source and ensure it is within the supported range (50Hz to 330Hz). Check the connections to the CH1 and CH2 pins.

2. Overheating

   • Cause: Prolonged operation at high current or insufficient ventilation.
   • Solution: Reduce the motor load or improve cooling with a heatsink or fan.

3. Motor Running in the Wrong Direction

   • Cause: Incorrect motor polarity.
   • Solution: Swap the connections on the M1+/M1- or M2+/M2- terminals.

4. No Power to the Motor Driver

   • Cause: Incorrect power supply connection or insufficient voltage.
   • Solution: Verify the power supply voltage and polarity. Ensure the power source can provide sufficient current.

• Can I use the MDDRC10 with a microcontroller other than Arduino? Yes, as long as the microcontroller can generate standard R/C PWM signals within the supported frequency range.

• What happens if I exceed the 10A continuous current rating? The motor driver may overheat or shut down to protect itself. Prolonged operation beyond the rated current can damage the driver.

• Can I control only one motor with the MDDRC10? Yes, you can use a single channel (CH1 or CH2) to control one motor while leaving the other channel unused.

• Is the MDDRC10 compatible with brushless motors? No, the MDDRC10 is designed for brushed DC motors only.