How to Use DM556 (Jiawen) Microstep Driver Peak 5.6A, 20-50 VDC 2-phase: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The DM556 microstep driver, manufactured by Jiawen, is a high-performance driver designed for controlling 2-phase stepper motors. It supports a wide range of step resolutions and delivers smooth motion with high precision. With a peak current of 5.6A and an operating voltage range of 20-50 VDC, the DM556 is suitable for demanding applications requiring precise motor control.

• CNC machines and 3D printers
• Robotics and automation systems
• Laser cutters and engravers
• Conveyor systems
• Industrial machinery requiring precise motion control

The DM556 has two main connectors: one for motor and power connections, and another for control signals. Below is the pin configuration:

1. Power Supply: Connect a DC power supply (20-50 VDC) to the V+ and GND pins. Ensure the power supply can deliver sufficient current for the motor and driver.
2. Motor Connection: Connect the stepper motor coils to the A+, A-, B+, and B- terminals. Verify the wiring matches the motor's datasheet.
3. Control Signals: Connect the PUL+, PUL-, DIR+, and DIR- pins to a microcontroller or motion controller. Use the ENA+ and ENA- pins if you need to enable or disable the driver dynamically.
4. Microstepping and Current Settings: Use the DIP switches on the driver to configure the microstepping resolution and output current. Refer to the DM556 datasheet for detailed DIP switch settings.

• Heat Dissipation: The DM556 may generate heat during operation. Mount it on a heat sink or ensure proper ventilation to prevent overheating.
• Signal Integrity: Use shielded cables for control signals to minimize noise interference.
• Current Settings: Set the output current to match the stepper motor's rated current to avoid damage to the motor or driver.
• Microstepping: Choose an appropriate microstepping resolution based on the application's precision and speed requirements.

Below is an example of how to control the DM556 using an Arduino UNO:

• PUL+ to Arduino D2
• PUL- to Arduino GND
• DIR+ to Arduino D3
• DIR- to Arduino GND
• ENA+ to Arduino D4 (optional)
• ENA- to Arduino GND
• Connect the motor and power supply as described above.

// Define pin connections
const int stepPin = 2;  // Pin connected to PUL+
const int dirPin = 3;   // Pin connected to DIR+
const int enablePin = 4; // Pin connected to ENA+ (optional)

void setup() {
  // Set pin modes
  pinMode(stepPin, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(dirPin, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(enablePin, OUTPUT);

  // Enable the driver
  digitalWrite(enablePin, LOW); // LOW to enable, HIGH to disable
}

void loop() {
  // Set direction
  digitalWrite(dirPin, HIGH); // HIGH for one direction, LOW for the other

  // Generate step pulses
  for (int i = 0; i < 200; i++) { // 200 steps for one revolution (1.8° motor)
    digitalWrite(stepPin, HIGH);
    delayMicroseconds(500); // Adjust for speed
    digitalWrite(stepPin, LOW);
    delayMicroseconds(500);
  }

  delay(1000); // Wait 1 second before reversing direction

  // Reverse direction
  digitalWrite(dirPin, LOW);
  for (int i = 0; i < 200; i++) {
    digitalWrite(stepPin, HIGH);
    delayMicroseconds(500);
    digitalWrite(stepPin, LOW);
    delayMicroseconds(500);
  }

  delay(1000); // Wait 1 second before repeating
}

1. Motor Not Moving

   • Cause: Incorrect wiring or loose connections.
   • Solution: Double-check all connections, especially motor coils and control signals.

2. Driver Overheating

   • Cause: Insufficient cooling or incorrect current settings.
   • Solution: Ensure proper ventilation or use a heat sink. Set the current to match the motor's rated current.

3. Erratic Motor Movement

   • Cause: Noise interference or incorrect microstepping settings.
   • Solution: Use shielded cables for control signals and verify DIP switch settings.

4. No Response from Driver

   • Cause: Driver not enabled or incorrect power supply voltage.
   • Solution: Check the ENA+ and ENA- signals. Verify the power supply voltage is within the 20-50 VDC range.

• Can the DM556 drive 3-phase stepper motors?

  • No, the DM556 is designed specifically for 2-phase stepper motors.

• What is the maximum microstepping resolution?

  • The DM556 supports up to 256 microsteps per step.

• Is the driver compatible with 12V power supplies?

  • No, the minimum input voltage is 20V. Using a 12V supply may damage the driver.

• Can I use the DM556 without the enable pins?

  • Yes, the driver is enabled by default if the ENA+ and ENA- pins are not connected.