How to Use BTS7960 High Current 43A H-Bridge Motor Driver: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The BTS7960 is a robust and powerful motor driver designed to control DC motors with high current ratings of up to 43A. It features an H-Bridge configuration, enabling bidirectional control of motors, making it ideal for applications such as robotics, automation, electric vehicles, and industrial machinery. With built-in protection features like overcurrent and thermal shutdown, the BTS7960 ensures reliable and safe operation in demanding environments.

• Robotics (e.g., controlling wheels or robotic arms)
• Automation systems
• Electric vehicles
• Conveyor belts and industrial machinery
• High-power motor control in DIY projects

The BTS7960 motor driver is designed to handle high-power motors with ease. Below are its key technical specifications:

The BTS7960 module has several pins for motor control and power connections. Below is the pinout:

The BTS7960 motor driver is straightforward to use in a circuit. Follow the steps below to integrate it into your project:

1. Power Supply: Connect the motor power supply to the V+ pin and ground to the GND pin. Ensure the power supply matches the motor's voltage requirements.
2. Motor Connections: Connect the motor terminals to the MOTOR+ and MOTOR- pins.
3. Logic Connections:
   • Connect the VCC pin to the 5V or 3.3V logic supply of your microcontroller.
   • Connect the GND pin to the ground of your microcontroller.
   • Use the R_EN and L_EN pins to enable the motor driver.
   • Use the R_PWM and L_PWM pins to control the motor's speed and direction via PWM signals.

Below is an example of how to control the BTS7960 with an Arduino UNO:

// Define control pins for the BTS7960
#define R_EN 7    // Right enable pin
#define L_EN 8    // Left enable pin
#define R_PWM 9   // Right PWM pin
#define L_PWM 10  // Left PWM pin

void setup() {
  // Set control pins as outputs
  pinMode(R_EN, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(L_EN, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(R_PWM, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(L_PWM, OUTPUT);

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

void loop() {
  // Example: Rotate motor forward at 50% speed
  analogWrite(R_PWM, 128);  // Set right PWM to 50% duty cycle
  analogWrite(L_PWM, 0);    // Set left PWM to 0 (no reverse)

  delay(2000); // Run motor for 2 seconds

  // Example: Rotate motor backward at 75% speed
  analogWrite(R_PWM, 0);    // Set right PWM to 0 (no forward)
  analogWrite(L_PWM, 192);  // Set left PWM to 75% duty cycle

  delay(2000); // Run motor for 2 seconds
}

• Heat Dissipation: The BTS7960 can handle high currents, but it may generate heat. Use a heatsink or active cooling for prolonged high-current operation.
• Power Supply: Ensure the motor power supply can provide sufficient current for the motor and driver.
• PWM Frequency: Use a PWM frequency below 25kHz for optimal performance.
• Protection Features: The module includes overcurrent and thermal protection. If the driver shuts down unexpectedly, check for overheating or excessive current draw.

1. Motor Not Running

   • Ensure the R_EN and L_EN pins are set HIGH to enable the driver.
   • Verify the motor power supply is connected and providing the correct voltage.

2. Motor Running in the Wrong Direction

   • Check the polarity of the motor connections (MOTOR+ and MOTOR-).
   • Verify the PWM signals on the R_PWM and L_PWM pins.

3. Driver Overheating

   • Ensure proper heat dissipation with a heatsink or fan.
   • Check that the motor is not drawing more current than the driver's maximum rating.

4. No Response from the Driver

   • Confirm the VCC pin is connected to the correct logic voltage (3.3V or 5V).
   • Verify all ground connections are properly connected.

Q: Can I use the BTS7960 with a 3.3V microcontroller like the ESP32?
A: Yes, the BTS7960 is compatible with both 3.3V and 5V logic levels.

Q: What is the maximum motor voltage the BTS7960 can handle?
A: The BTS7960 can handle motor voltages between 5.5V and 27V.

Q: Can I control two motors with one BTS7960 module?
A: No, the BTS7960 is designed to control a single motor. For dual-motor control, use two modules.

Q: How do I know if the driver is overheating?
A: The BTS7960 has a built-in thermal shutdown feature. If it overheats, it will automatically disable itself until it cools down.

By following this documentation, you can effectively use the BTS7960 motor driver in your projects.