How to Use A988 DRIVER : Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The A988 DRIVER is an integrated circuit designed to drive transistors or other high-power discrete components. It is commonly used in applications requiring amplification and precise control of current flow through a load, such as in motor control circuits, power regulators, and audio amplifiers.

• Stepper motor driving
• DC motor control
• Power regulation modules
• Audio amplification systems

• Operating Voltage Range: 3.0V to 30V
• Output Current: Up to 2A (with proper heat sinking)
• Logic Input Voltage Range: 2.5V to 5.5V
• Thermal Shutdown Protection: Yes
• Under Voltage Lockout: Yes
• Cross-Conduction Protection: Yes

1. Connect Vcc to a suitable power supply (3.0V to 30V).
2. Connect GND to the system ground.
3. Connect IN1 and IN2 to the logic control signals (2.5V to 5.5V).
4. Connect OUT1 and OUT2 to the load you wish to drive.
5. Optionally, connect EN to a logic signal to enable or disable the outputs.
6. Monitor the FAULT pin to detect any error conditions.

• Always ensure that the power supply does not exceed the maximum voltage rating.
• Provide adequate heat sinking to deal with power dissipation, especially at higher output currents.
• Use flyback diodes when driving inductive loads to protect the driver from voltage spikes.
• Ensure that the logic input voltage is compatible with your control source.
• Do not exceed the maximum current rating to prevent damage to the device.

• Overheating: Ensure proper heat sinking and airflow around the A988 DRIVER.
• Unexpected Behavior: Verify that the logic input signals are within the specified range and that the power supply is stable.
• No Output: Check the EN pin to ensure the device is enabled and the FAULT pin for any error conditions.

• If overheating occurs, reduce the load current or improve heat dissipation.
• For unexpected behavior, double-check wiring and signal levels.
• If there is no output, ensure that the EN pin is high and there are no faults indicated by the FAULT pin.

• Q: Can the A988 DRIVER be used with an Arduino UNO?

  • A: Yes, the A988 DRIVER can be interfaced with an Arduino UNO using digital I/O pins.

• Q: What is the maximum current the A988 DRIVER can handle?

  • A: The A988 DRIVER can handle up to 2A with proper heat sinking.

• Q: How do I know if the A988 DRIVER is in a fault state?

  • A: The FAULT pin will be driven low if there is a fault condition.

// Example code to control the A988 DRIVER with an Arduino UNO

const int in1Pin = 2; // IN1 connected to digital pin 2
const int in2Pin = 3; // IN2 connected to digital pin 3
const int enPin = 4;  // EN connected to digital pin 4

void setup() {
  pinMode(in1Pin, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(in2Pin, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(enPin, OUTPUT);
  
  // Enable the A988 DRIVER
  digitalWrite(enPin, HIGH);
}

void loop() {
  // Set IN1 high and IN2 low to drive the load in one direction
  digitalWrite(in1Pin, HIGH);
  digitalWrite(in2Pin, LOW);
  delay(1000); // Wait for 1 second
  
  // Set IN1 low and IN2 high to drive the load in the opposite direction
  digitalWrite(in1Pin, LOW);
  digitalWrite(in2Pin, HIGH);
  delay(1000); // Wait for 1 second
}

Remember to adjust the pin numbers as per your circuit configuration and ensure that the logic voltage levels are compatible with the Arduino UNO.