How to Use DFRobot Motor Driver: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The DFRobot Motor Driver, based on the TB6612FNG chip, is a compact and efficient motor driver module designed for controlling DC motors and stepper motors. It supports features such as speed control, direction control, and the ability to drive two motors simultaneously. This module is ideal for robotics, automation, and other motor control applications where precise and reliable operation is required.

• Robotics projects for driving wheels or actuators
• Automation systems requiring motorized components
• DIY projects involving DC or stepper motors
• Educational kits for learning motor control
• Prototyping motorized mechanisms

The DFRobot Motor Driver (TB6612FNG) has the following key specifications:

The TB6612FNG motor driver module has the following pinout:

1. Power Connections:

   • Connect the VCC pin to a 3.3V or 5V logic power supply.
   • Connect the VM pin to the motor power supply (4.5V to 13.5V).
   • Connect the GND pin to the ground of the power supply.

2. Motor Connections:

   • Connect the motor terminals to AO1 and AO2 for Motor A, and BO1 and BO2 for Motor B.

3. Control Connections:

   • Use the AIN1, AIN2, and PWMA pins to control Motor A.
   • Use the BIN1, BIN2, and PWMB pins to control Motor B.
   • Set the STBY pin HIGH to enable the driver.

4. Direction and Speed Control:

   • Set the direction of the motor by configuring AIN1 and AIN2 (or BIN1 and BIN2).
   • Control the speed by providing a PWM signal to PWMA (or PWMB).

• Ensure that the motor power supply voltage (VM) matches the requirements of your motors.
• Use appropriate decoupling capacitors near the power supply pins to reduce noise.
• Avoid exceeding the maximum current rating of 1.2A per channel to prevent damage.
• Use heat sinks or proper ventilation if operating at high currents for extended periods.
• Always set the STBY pin LOW when the driver is not in use to minimize power consumption.

Below is an example of how to control two DC motors using the DFRobot Motor Driver with an Arduino UNO:

// Define motor control pins
#define AIN1 7  // Motor A direction control pin 1
#define AIN2 8  // Motor A direction control pin 2
#define PWMA 9  // Motor A speed control (PWM) pin
#define BIN1 10 // Motor B direction control pin 1
#define BIN2 11 // Motor B direction control pin 2
#define PWMB 3  // Motor B speed control (PWM) pin
#define STBY 12 // Standby control pin

void setup() {
  // Set motor control pins as outputs
  pinMode(AIN1, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(AIN2, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(PWMA, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(BIN1, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(BIN2, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(PWMB, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(STBY, OUTPUT);

  // Enable the motor driver
  digitalWrite(STBY, HIGH);
}

void loop() {
  // Motor A: Forward at 50% speed
  digitalWrite(AIN1, HIGH);
  digitalWrite(AIN2, LOW);
  analogWrite(PWMA, 128); // 50% duty cycle (0-255)

  // Motor B: Reverse at 75% speed
  digitalWrite(BIN1, LOW);
  digitalWrite(BIN2, HIGH);
  analogWrite(PWMB, 192); // 75% duty cycle (0-255)

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

  // Stop both motors
  analogWrite(PWMA, 0);
  analogWrite(PWMB, 0);

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

1. Motors Not Running:

   • Ensure the STBY pin is set HIGH to enable the driver.
   • Verify that the power supply connections (VCC, VM, and GND) are correct.
   • Check the PWM signal and ensure it is within the supported frequency range.

2. Motor Running in the Wrong Direction:

   • Swap the AIN1 and AIN2 (or BIN1 and BIN2) signals to reverse the motor direction.

3. Overheating:

   • Ensure the current drawn by the motors does not exceed 1.2A per channel.
   • Use heat sinks or improve ventilation if necessary.

4. Noisy Operation:

   • Add decoupling capacitors near the motor terminals to reduce electrical noise.
   • Ensure proper grounding and minimize long wire runs.

Q: Can I use this module to control a stepper motor?
A: Yes, the TB6612FNG can control a stepper motor by driving its two coils. You will need to generate the appropriate step sequences using the control pins.

Q: What is the maximum PWM frequency supported?
A: The module supports PWM frequencies up to 100 kHz.

Q: Can I use a 12V power supply for both VM and VCC?
A: No, VCC should be between 2.7V and 5.5V. Use a voltage regulator if your logic circuit requires 5V or 3.3V.