How to Use MD10C Motor Driver: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The MD10C Motor Driver by Cytron is a compact and efficient driver designed to control DC motors. It supports bidirectional motor control and can handle high current loads of up to 13A continuously, making it ideal for applications in robotics, automation, and other motor-driven systems. The MD10C is compatible with a wide range of microcontrollers, including Arduino, Raspberry Pi, and other development boards, and features a simple interface for easy integration.

• Robotics (e.g., controlling wheels or robotic arms)
• Conveyor belt systems
• Automated guided vehicles (AGVs)
• DIY motorized projects
• Industrial automation systems

The MD10C Motor Driver is designed to provide reliable and efficient motor control. Below are its key technical details:

The MD10C Motor Driver has a simple pinout for easy interfacing. Below is the pin configuration:

The MD10C 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 VM pin and its ground to the GND pin. Ensure the voltage is within the range of 5V to 30V.
2. Logic Power: Connect the logic power supply (3.3V or 5V) to the VCC pin and its ground to the GND pin.
3. Motor Connections: Connect the motor terminals to the MOTOR+ and MOTOR- pins.
4. Control Signals:
   • Connect the PWM pin to a PWM-capable pin on your microcontroller for speed control.
   • Connect the DIR pin to a digital output pin on your microcontroller for direction control.

Below is an example of how to control the MD10C Motor Driver using an Arduino UNO:

// Define pin connections
const int pwmPin = 9;  // PWM pin connected to MD10C's PWM input
const int dirPin = 8;  // Direction pin connected to MD10C's DIR input

void setup() {
  // Set pin modes
  pinMode(pwmPin, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(dirPin, OUTPUT);
}

void loop() {
  // Example: Rotate motor forward at 50% speed
  digitalWrite(dirPin, HIGH);  // Set direction to forward
  analogWrite(pwmPin, 128);    // Set PWM duty cycle to 50% (128/255)

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

  // Example: Rotate motor backward at 75% speed
  digitalWrite(dirPin, LOW);   // Set direction to reverse
  analogWrite(pwmPin, 192);    // Set PWM duty cycle to 75% (192/255)

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

• Ensure the motor power supply voltage matches the motor's rated voltage.
• Use appropriate heat dissipation methods (e.g., heatsinks) if operating at high currents for extended periods.
• Avoid reversing the polarity of the power supply or motor connections, as this may damage the driver.
• Use a fuse or circuit breaker to protect the motor and driver from overcurrent conditions.

1. Motor not spinning:

   • Verify that the power supply is connected and providing the correct voltage.
   • Check the PWM and DIR signals from the microcontroller.
   • Ensure the motor connections are secure and not reversed.

2. Motor spins in the wrong direction:

   • Reverse the logic level on the DIR pin or swap the motor connections (MOTOR+ and MOTOR-).

3. Driver overheating:

   • Ensure the current draw of the motor does not exceed the driver's continuous current rating (13A).
   • Add a heatsink or active cooling if operating at high currents.

4. PWM signal not working:

   • Confirm that the microcontroller's PWM pin is configured correctly.
   • Check the PWM frequency; it should not exceed 20 kHz.

Q: Can the MD10C control two motors simultaneously?
A: No, the MD10C is a single-channel motor driver and can control only one motor at a time.

Q: Is the MD10C compatible with 3.3V logic?
A: Yes, the MD10C supports both 3.3V and 5V logic levels for control signals.

Q: What happens if the motor draws more than 13A continuously?
A: The driver may overheat or shut down to protect itself. Use a motor with a current rating within the driver's limits.

Q: Can I use the MD10C with a stepper motor?
A: No, the MD10C is designed for DC motors and is not suitable for stepper motors.

By following this documentation, you can effectively integrate the MD10C Motor Driver into your projects and troubleshoot common issues.