How to Use BTS7960: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The BTS7960 is a high-current H-bridge motor driver manufactured by Handson Technology (Part ID: BTS1790). It is designed to drive DC motors and other inductive loads with high efficiency and reliability. The BTS7960 integrates advanced protection features, including overcurrent, overtemperature, and undervoltage safeguards, making it ideal for demanding applications in robotics, industrial automation, and electric vehicles.

• Robotics (e.g., motorized arms, wheeled robots)
• Industrial automation systems
• Electric vehicles and carts
• Conveyor belt systems
• High-power DC motor control

The BTS7960 is a robust motor driver with the following key specifications:

The BTS7960 module typically comes with a 12-pin interface. Below is the pin configuration:

1. Power Supply: Connect the motor power supply to the VCC pin and ground to the GND pin. Ensure the supply voltage is within the range of 5.5V to 27V.
2. Motor Connection: Attach the motor terminals to the MOTOR+ and MOTOR- pins.
3. Logic Inputs: Connect the control signals (RPWM, LPWM, R_EN, L_EN, and BRAKE) to a microcontroller or other control circuitry. Ensure the logic voltage matches the microcontroller's output (3.3V or 5V).
4. Enable Pins: Set R_EN and L_EN HIGH to enable the respective half-bridges.
5. PWM Control: Use the RPWM and LPWM pins to control the motor's speed and direction via PWM signals.

• Heat Dissipation: The BTS7960 can handle high currents, but it may generate significant heat. Use a heatsink or active cooling for prolonged high-current operation.
• Protection Features: The module includes built-in protection mechanisms. If the motor stops unexpectedly, check for overcurrent or overtemperature conditions.
• Current Sensing: The IS pin provides a voltage proportional to the motor current. This can be used for monitoring or feedback control.

Below is an example of how to control a DC motor using the BTS7960 and an Arduino UNO:

// Define control pins for the BTS7960
#define RPWM 9    // PWM pin for forward rotation
#define LPWM 10   // PWM pin for reverse rotation
#define R_EN 7    // Enable pin for right half-bridge
#define L_EN 8    // Enable pin for left half-bridge

void setup() {
  // Set pin modes
  pinMode(RPWM, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(LPWM, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(R_EN, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(L_EN, OUTPUT);

  // Enable both half-bridges
  digitalWrite(R_EN, HIGH);
  digitalWrite(L_EN, HIGH);
}

void loop() {
  // Rotate motor forward at 50% speed
  analogWrite(RPWM, 128); // 50% duty cycle
  analogWrite(LPWM, 0);   // No reverse rotation
  delay(2000);            // Run for 2 seconds

  // Rotate motor in reverse at 75% speed
  analogWrite(RPWM, 0);   // No forward rotation
  analogWrite(LPWM, 192); // 75% duty cycle
  delay(2000);            // Run for 2 seconds

  // Stop the motor
  analogWrite(RPWM, 0);
  analogWrite(LPWM, 0);
  delay(2000);            // Wait for 2 seconds
}

1. Motor Not Spinning

   • Cause: Incorrect wiring or insufficient power supply.
   • Solution: Double-check all connections and ensure the power supply voltage is within the specified range.

2. Overheating

   • Cause: Prolonged high-current operation without proper cooling.
   • Solution: Attach a heatsink or use active cooling (e.g., a fan).

3. PWM Signal Not Working

   • Cause: Incorrect logic voltage or damaged microcontroller pins.
   • Solution: Verify the logic voltage (3.3V or 5V) and test the microcontroller's PWM output.

4. Motor Vibrates but Does Not Rotate

   • Cause: Conflicting signals on RPWM and LPWM pins.
   • Solution: Ensure only one of the PWM pins is active at a time.

1. Can the BTS7960 drive stepper motors?

   • No, the BTS7960 is designed for DC motors and other inductive loads. For stepper motors, use a dedicated stepper motor driver.

2. What is the maximum PWM frequency supported?

   • The BTS7960 supports PWM frequencies up to 25kHz.

3. Can I use the BTS7960 with a 3.3V microcontroller?

   • Yes, the logic inputs are compatible with both 3.3V and 5V systems.

4. How do I implement braking?

   • Set the BRAKE pin HIGH to activate the braking function. This will short the motor terminals and stop the motor quickly.

By following this documentation, users can effectively integrate the BTS7960 into their projects and troubleshoot common issues with ease.