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

The Maker MDD3A Motor Driver is a versatile and powerful electronic device designed to control and drive the motion of motors. It is capable of handling high current and voltage, making it suitable for a wide range of applications including robotics, industrial automation, and hobbyist projects. The MDD3A allows for precise control over the speed and direction of DC motors, stepper motors, and servo motors.

• Robotics: Driving wheels or actuator motors.
• CNC machines: Controlling stepper motors for precise movements.
• Electric vehicles: Managing propulsion and steering motors.
• Hobby projects: Controlling motors in RC cars, drones, and more.

• Operating Voltage: 5V to 30V
• Continuous Current: Up to 3A per channel
• Peak Current: Up to 6A per channel (short duration)
• Control Signal Input Voltage: 3.3V to 5V (TTL compatible)
• Control Modes: Direction/Speed (PWM), Forward/Reverse, Brake

1. Power Connections:

   • Connect the motor power supply to the VM and GND pins.
   • Connect the logic power supply to the VCC and GND pins.

2. Motor Connections:

   • Connect your motor to the AOUT1 and AOUT2 pins for motor A, or BOUT1 and BOUT2 for motor B.

3. Control Signal Connections:

   • Connect your control signals (e.g., from an Arduino) to the AIN1, AIN2, PWMA, BIN1, BIN2, and PWMB pins as required.

4. Enable the Driver:

   • Set the STBY pin to high to enable the driver.

• Ensure that the power supply voltage and current do not exceed the specifications.
• Use appropriate heat sinks if operating near the maximum current rating.
• Always provide a common ground between the logic source (e.g., Arduino) and the motor driver.
• Use PWM signals for speed control and digital signals to set the direction.

// Define motor driver pins
#define AIN1 2
#define AIN2 3
#define PWMA 5 // PWM pin for speed control

void setup() {
  // Set motor driver pins as outputs
  pinMode(AIN1, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(AIN2, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(PWMA, OUTPUT);
}

void loop() {
  // Set motor A direction to forward
  digitalWrite(AIN1, HIGH);
  digitalWrite(AIN2, LOW);
  
  // Set motor A speed to 50%
  analogWrite(PWMA, 127); // PWM value between 0 (0%) and 255 (100%)
  
  delay(2000); // Run motor for 2 seconds
  
  // Stop motor A
  digitalWrite(AIN1, LOW);
  digitalWrite(AIN2, LOW);
  
  delay(1000); // Wait for 1 second
}

• Motor not running: Check power supply connections, ensure STBY pin is high, and verify control signals.
• Motor running hot: Reduce the load or current, check for proper ventilation and heat sinking.
• Inconsistent motor speed: Ensure PWM signal is stable and within the correct voltage range.

• Double-check wiring and connections for any loose or incorrect connections.
• Use a multimeter to verify the voltage levels at the power supply and control pins.
• If using PWM for speed control, ensure the frequency is within the acceptable range for the motor driver.

Q: Can I control two motors independently with the MDD3A? A: Yes, the MDD3A has two channels, allowing for independent control of two motors.

Q: What is the maximum frequency for the PWM signal? A: The MDD3A can typically handle PWM frequencies up to 25kHz. Check the datasheet for exact specifications.

Q: Can I use the MDD3A with a microcontroller operating at 3.3V logic? A: Yes, the control signal input voltage is compatible with 3.3V logic levels.

For further assistance, please refer to the Maker MDD3A datasheet or contact technical support.