How to Use BTS7960 (IBT-2) Motor Driver: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The BTS7960 (commonly referred to as the IBT-2) is a high-current H-bridge motor driver designed for controlling DC motors. It is capable of handling high currents (up to 43A) and operates efficiently with Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) signals. The module features built-in protection mechanisms, including overcurrent and thermal overload protection, making it a reliable choice for motor control applications.

• Robotics and automation systems
• Electric vehicle motor control
• Conveyor belt systems
• High-power DC motor control in industrial applications
• DIY projects involving Arduino, Raspberry Pi, or other microcontrollers

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

The BTS7960 module has a total of 8 pins for interfacing with a microcontroller and motor. Below is the pinout:

The BTS7960 motor driver is straightforward to use with a microcontroller like an Arduino. Below are the steps to integrate it into your project:

1. Power Connections:

   • Connect the VCC pin to the 5V output of your microcontroller.
   • Connect the GND pin to the ground of your microcontroller and power supply.
   • Connect a suitable power source (6V–27V) to the motor power input terminals.

2. Motor Connections:

   • Connect the motor terminals to the MOTOR+ and MOTOR- pins.

3. Control Pins:

   • Connect the RPWM and LPWM pins to PWM-capable pins on your microcontroller.
   • Connect the R_EN and L_EN pins to digital output pins on your microcontroller.

Below is an example of how to control a DC motor using the BTS7960 with an Arduino UNO:

// Define control pins for the BTS7960 motor driver
const int RPWM = 5;  // PWM pin for forward rotation
const int LPWM = 6;  // PWM pin for reverse rotation
const int R_EN = 7;  // Enable pin for right half-bridge
const int L_EN = 8;  // Enable pin for left half-bridge

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

  // Enable both half-bridges
  digitalWrite(R_EN, HIGH);
  digitalWrite(L_EN, HIGH);
}

void loop() {
  // Rotate motor forward at 50% speed
  analogWrite(RPWM, 128);  // 50% duty cycle (128 out of 255)
  analogWrite(LPWM, 0);    // No reverse rotation
  delay(2000);             // Run for 2 seconds

  // Rotate motor backward at 75% speed
  analogWrite(RPWM, 0);    // No forward rotation
  analogWrite(LPWM, 192);  // 75% duty cycle (192 out of 255)
  delay(2000);             // Run for 2 seconds

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

• Ensure the motor's current and voltage ratings are within the BTS7960's specifications.
• Use a heat sink or active cooling if operating at high currents for extended periods.
• Always connect the ground of the motor driver, microcontroller, and power supply to ensure proper operation.
• Avoid sudden changes in PWM signals to prevent stress on the motor and driver.

1. Motor does not spin:

   • Verify all connections, especially the power supply and motor terminals.
   • Ensure the R_EN and L_EN pins are set to HIGH.
   • Check the PWM signal using an oscilloscope or multimeter.

2. Motor spins in the wrong direction:

   • Swap the connections of the MOTOR+ and MOTOR- terminals.
   • Verify the logic levels on the RPWM and LPWM pins.

3. Driver overheats:

   • Ensure the current drawn by the motor does not exceed 43A.
   • Use a heat sink or active cooling to dissipate heat.

4. Erratic motor behavior:

   • Check for loose connections or insufficient power supply.
   • Ensure the PWM frequency is within the supported range (up to 25kHz).

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

Q: What happens if the motor draws more than 43A?
A: The BTS7960 has built-in overcurrent protection and will shut down to prevent damage.

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

Q: Is it possible to use the BTS7960 for stepper motors?
A: No, the BTS7960 is not suitable for stepper motors. Use a dedicated stepper motor driver instead.