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

A Motor-Driver is an electronic circuit designed to control the operation of a motor by regulating its speed, direction, and sometimes torque. It acts as an interface between a microcontroller (or other control systems) and the motor, enabling precise control over the motor's performance. Motor-Drivers are essential in applications where motors are used, as they provide the necessary current and voltage levels that microcontrollers cannot directly supply.

• Robotics: Controlling the movement of robotic arms, wheels, or other actuators.
• Industrial Automation: Driving conveyor belts, pumps, or other machinery.
• Consumer Electronics: Used in devices like drones, electric toys, and home appliances.
• Automotive: Powering electric windows, wipers, and other motorized systems.
• CNC Machines: Controlling stepper or DC motors for precision machining.

Below are the key technical details for the Custom Motor-Driver:

• Input Voltage Range: 5V to 36V
• Output Current (per channel): Up to 2A continuous, 3A peak
• Number of Channels: Dual-channel (can control two motors independently)
• Control Logic Voltage: 3.3V or 5V compatible
• Supported Motor Types: DC motors, stepper motors
• PWM Frequency: Up to 20 kHz
• Thermal Protection: Built-in over-temperature shutdown
• Dimensions: 40mm x 30mm x 15mm

The Motor-Driver has the following pin layout:

1. Power Connections:

   • Connect the VCC pin to the motor's power supply (ensure it matches the motor's voltage rating).
   • Connect the GND pin to the common ground of the power supply and the microcontroller.

2. Motor Connections:

   • Connect the motor terminals to the OUT1 and OUT2 pins for Motor 1, and OUT3 and OUT4 for Motor 2.

3. Control Connections:

   • Connect the IN1 and IN2 pins to the microcontroller's GPIO pins to control Motor 1.
   • Similarly, connect the IN3 and IN4 pins to control Motor 2.
   • Use the ENA and ENB pins to enable or disable the respective motors.

4. Logic Voltage:

   • Ensure the control logic voltage (3.3V or 5V) matches the microcontroller's output voltage.

5. PWM for Speed Control:

   • Use a PWM signal on IN2 (Motor 1) or IN4 (Motor 2) to control the motor's speed.

Below is an example of how to control a DC motor using the Motor-Driver and an Arduino UNO:

// Define motor control pins
const int ENA = 9;  // Enable pin for Motor 1
const int IN1 = 7;  // Direction pin for Motor 1
const int IN2 = 6;  // Speed (PWM) pin for Motor 1

void setup() {
  // Set motor control pins as outputs
  pinMode(ENA, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(IN1, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(IN2, OUTPUT);

  // Initialize motor in stopped state
  digitalWrite(ENA, LOW);  // Disable motor
  digitalWrite(IN1, LOW);  // Set direction to forward
  digitalWrite(IN2, LOW);  // No speed (stopped)
}

void loop() {
  // Example: Run motor forward at 50% speed
  digitalWrite(IN1, HIGH);  // Set direction to forward
  analogWrite(IN2, 128);    // Set speed to 50% (128 out of 255)
  digitalWrite(ENA, HIGH);  // Enable motor
  delay(5000);              // Run for 5 seconds

  // Stop the motor
  digitalWrite(ENA, LOW);   // Disable motor
  delay(2000);              // Wait for 2 seconds

  // Example: Run motor in reverse at 75% speed
  digitalWrite(IN1, LOW);   // Set direction to reverse
  analogWrite(IN2, 192);    // Set speed to 75% (192 out of 255)
  digitalWrite(ENA, HIGH);  // Enable motor
  delay(5000);              // Run for 5 seconds

  // Stop the motor
  digitalWrite(ENA, LOW);   // Disable motor
  delay(2000);              // Wait for 2 seconds
}

• Power Supply: Ensure the motor power supply voltage matches the motor's specifications.
• Heat Dissipation: The Motor-Driver may heat up during operation. Use a heat sink or cooling fan if necessary.
• Current Limits: Do not exceed the maximum current rating (2A continuous, 3A peak) to avoid damage.
• Decoupling Capacitors: Add capacitors near the VCC and GND pins to reduce noise and voltage spikes.
• Wiring: Use thick wires for motor connections to handle high currents.

1. Motor Not Running:

   • Check if the ENA/ENB pins are set HIGH to enable the motor.
   • Verify the power supply voltage and connections.
   • Ensure the motor is properly connected to the output pins.

2. Motor Running in the Wrong Direction:

   • Swap the IN1 and IN2 signals (or IN3 and IN4 for Motor 2).
   • Check the logic levels sent by the microcontroller.

3. Motor Speed Not Changing:

   • Ensure the PWM signal is correctly configured on the IN2 or IN4 pins.
   • Verify the PWM frequency is within the supported range (up to 20 kHz).

4. Overheating:

   • Reduce the motor load or use a cooling mechanism.
   • Check for short circuits or excessive current draw.

• Can this Motor-Driver control stepper motors? Yes, it can control stepper motors by driving the coils in sequence. However, additional logic may be required.

• What happens if the current exceeds the rated limit? The Motor-Driver has built-in thermal protection and will shut down to prevent damage. Reduce the load and allow it to cool before resuming operation.

• Can I use this Motor-Driver with a 3.3V microcontroller? Yes, the control logic is compatible with both 3.3V and 5V systems.

• Is it possible to control two motors independently? Yes, the dual-channel design allows for independent control of two motors.