How to Use Dual-Channel DC Motor Driver-12A: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The Dual-Channel DC Motor Driver-12A (Manufacturer Part ID: DFR0601) by DFRobot is a robust motor driver designed to control two DC motors simultaneously. It supports bidirectional control and speed regulation using PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) signals. With a maximum current capacity of 12A per channel, this motor driver is ideal for high-power motor applications.

• Robotics and automation systems
• Electric vehicles and carts
• Conveyor belts and industrial machinery
• Remote-controlled cars and boats
• DIY projects requiring precise motor control

The following table outlines the key technical details of the DFR0601 motor driver:

The DFR0601 motor driver has the following pin layout:

1. Power Supply: Connect the motor power supply to the VIN pin and ground to the GND pin. Ensure the voltage is within the range of 6.5V to 30V.
2. Logic Voltage: Connect the VCC pin to the logic voltage of your control system (3.3V or 5V).
3. Motor Connections:
   • Connect the terminals of Motor A to OUTA+ and OUTA-.
   • Connect the terminals of Motor B to OUTB+ and OUTB-.
4. Control Signals:
   • Use the INA1, INB1, and PWM1 pins to control Motor A.
   • Use the INA2, INB2, and PWM2 pins to control Motor B.

Below is an example Arduino sketch to control two DC motors using the DFR0601 motor driver:

// Define motor control pins
#define INA1 7  // Direction control for Motor A
#define INB1 8  // Direction control for Motor A
#define PWM1 9  // Speed control (PWM) for Motor A

#define INA2 4  // Direction control for Motor B
#define INB2 5  // Direction control for Motor B
#define PWM2 6  // Speed control (PWM) for Motor B

void setup() {
  // Set motor control pins as outputs
  pinMode(INA1, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(INB1, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(PWM1, OUTPUT);

  pinMode(INA2, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(INB2, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(PWM2, OUTPUT);
}

void loop() {
  // Example: Run Motor A forward at 50% speed
  digitalWrite(INA1, HIGH);  // Set direction forward
  digitalWrite(INB1, LOW);
  analogWrite(PWM1, 128);    // Set speed (0-255, 128 = 50%)

  // Example: Run Motor B backward at 75% speed
  digitalWrite(INA2, LOW);   // Set direction backward
  digitalWrite(INB2, HIGH);
  analogWrite(PWM2, 192);    // Set speed (0-255, 192 = 75%)

  delay(5000);               // Run for 5 seconds

  // Stop both motors
  analogWrite(PWM1, 0);      // Stop Motor A
  analogWrite(PWM2, 0);      // Stop Motor B
  delay(2000);               // Wait for 2 seconds
}

• Ensure the motor power supply voltage matches the motor's operating voltage.
• Do not exceed the maximum current rating of 12A per channel.
• Use appropriate heat dissipation methods (e.g., heat sinks) for prolonged high-current operation.
• Always connect the ground (GND) of the motor driver to the ground of the control system.

1. Motors not running:

   • Verify that the power supply is connected and within the specified voltage range.
   • Check the control signals (INA, INB, and PWM) for proper logic levels.
   • Ensure the ground (GND) is shared between the motor driver and the control system.

2. Motor running in the wrong direction:

   • Swap the INA and INB signals for the affected motor.
   • Verify the wiring of the motor terminals.

3. Overheating:

   • Ensure the current draw of the motors does not exceed 12A per channel.
   • Use a heat sink or active cooling if operating at high currents for extended periods.

4. PWM signal not working:

   • Confirm that the PWM frequency is within the supported range (0Hz to 20kHz).
   • Check the Arduino code for correct analogWrite values (0-255).

Q: Can I use this motor driver with a 24V motor?
A: Yes, the motor driver supports operating voltages up to 30V, so it is compatible with 24V motors.

Q: Can I control the motor driver with a Raspberry Pi?
A: Yes, the motor driver accepts 3.3V logic signals, making it compatible with Raspberry Pi GPIO pins.

Q: What happens if the current exceeds 12A?
A: Exceeding the current limit may damage the motor driver. Use a fuse or current-limiting circuit to protect the driver.

Q: Can I control only one motor with this driver?
A: Yes, you can use only one channel (Motor A or Motor B) if your application requires it. Leave the unused channel unconnected.