How to Use IBT-2 H-Bridge Motor Driver: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The IBT-2 H-Bridge Motor Driver is a robust electronic component designed for controlling DC motors' direction and speed. It is capable of driving high-power motors in both forward and reverse directions. This makes it an ideal choice for robotics, automation projects, and any application requiring bidirectional motor control.

• Robotics
• Automated machinery
• Electric vehicles
• Conveyor systems
• Actuators for mechanical systems

• Supply Voltage (Vcc): 6V to 27V
• Logic Voltage (Vlogic): 5V (compatible with Arduino)
• Continuous Current: Up to 43A
• Peak Current: 100A (for a few seconds)
• Operating Temperature: -25°C to +135°C

1. Power Connections:

   • Connect the motor's positive lead to the B+ pin and the negative lead to the B- pin.
   • Apply a DC voltage between 6V and 27V to the Vcc pin for the motor power supply.
   • Connect the ground of the power supply to the GND pin.

2. Control Connections:

   • Connect the R_EN and L_EN pins to a digital output on your control board (e.g., Arduino) to enable or disable the motor driver.
   • Apply PWM signals to the RPWM and LPWM pins to control the motor's speed and direction.

• Ensure that the power supply can handle the motor's current requirements.
• Use a flyback diode across the motor terminals to protect the driver from voltage spikes.
• Avoid running the motor driver at its peak current for extended periods to prevent overheating.
• Implement proper heat dissipation techniques if operating near the maximum current rating.

// Define the control pins for the IBT-2
const int RPWM = 3; // Right PWM pin connected to Arduino pin 3
const int LPWM = 5; // Left PWM pin connected to Arduino pin 5
const int R_EN = 4; // Right Enable pin connected to Arduino pin 4
const int L_EN = 6; // Left Enable pin connected to Arduino pin 6

void setup() {
  // Set all the control pins as outputs
  pinMode(RPWM, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(LPWM, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(R_EN, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(L_EN, OUTPUT);

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

void loop() {
  // Spin motor forward at full speed
  analogWrite(RPWM, 255); // Full speed forward
  analogWrite(LPWM, 0);   // Ensure LPWM is low
  delay(2000);             // Run for 2 seconds

  // Spin motor in reverse at half speed
  analogWrite(RPWM, 0);    // Ensure RPWM is low
  analogWrite(LPWM, 127);  // Half speed reverse
  delay(2000);             // Run for 2 seconds

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

• Motor not responding: Check power supply connections and ensure that the enable pins are set high.
• Overheating: Ensure proper heat dissipation and that the current does not exceed the continuous rating.
• Erratic motor behavior: Verify that the PWM signals are correctly applied and that there is no interference.

• Double-check wiring and solder joints for any loose connections or shorts.
• Use a multimeter to verify the voltage at the motor driver's power pins.
• Implement a gradual start/stop in your code to reduce mechanical stress and electrical spikes.

Q: Can I control two motors with one IBT-2? A: No, the IBT-2 is designed to control one motor. For two motors, you would need two IBT-2 modules.

Q: What is the maximum PWM frequency for the IBT-2? A: The IBT-2 can handle PWM frequencies up to 25kHz.

Q: How do I reverse the motor direction? A: To reverse the motor direction, invert the PWM signals: apply the PWM signal to LPWM for forward and RPWM for reverse.

Q: Can I use the IBT-2 with a microcontroller running at 3.3V logic? A: While the IBT-2 is designed for 5V logic, it may work at 3.3V. However, it is recommended to use a logic level converter for reliable operation.