How to Use L298N: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The L298N is a dual H-bridge motor driver designed to control the direction and speed of DC motors and stepper motors. It is a versatile and robust component capable of driving two motors simultaneously, with each channel supporting up to 2A of current. The L298N is widely used in robotics, automation, and other motor control applications due to its ease of use and compatibility with microcontrollers like Arduino.

• Robotics: Driving wheels or tracks of robots
• Automation: Controlling conveyor belts or actuators
• DIY Projects: Building remote-controlled cars or robotic arms
• Stepper Motor Control: Precise positioning in CNC machines or 3D printers

• Operating Voltage: 5V to 46V
• Output Current: Up to 2A per channel (continuous)
• Peak Current: 3A per channel (short duration)
• Logic Voltage: 5V
• Control Logic Levels: High (1) = 5V, Low (0) = 0V
• Power Dissipation: 25W (with proper heat sinking)
• Built-in Protection: Thermal shutdown and overcurrent protection
• Dimensions: Typically 43mm x 43mm (for L298N modules)

The L298N module typically has the following pins:

Note: Some L298N modules include a 5V-EN jumper. When this jumper is in place, the module's onboard voltage regulator provides 5V to the logic circuit. If using an external 5V supply, remove this jumper.

1. Power Connections:

   • Connect the 12V pin to an external power source (5V to 46V) suitable for your motors.
   • Connect the GND pin to the ground of the power source and the microcontroller.
   • If the onboard 5V regulator is used, ensure the 5V-EN jumper is in place.

2. Motor Connections:

   • Connect Motor A to OUT1 and OUT2.
   • Connect Motor B to OUT3 and OUT4.

3. Control Connections:

   • Connect IN1, IN2, IN3, and IN4 to the microcontroller's digital pins.
   • Connect ENA and ENB to PWM-capable pins on the microcontroller for speed control.

4. Logic Power:

   • If the 5V-EN jumper is removed, provide 5V to the 5V pin from an external source (e.g., Arduino).

Below is an example of how to control two DC motors using the L298N and an Arduino UNO:

// Define motor control pins
const int IN1 = 7;  // Motor A direction pin 1
const int IN2 = 6;  // Motor A direction pin 2
const int ENA = 5;  // Motor A speed control (PWM)

const int IN3 = 4;  // Motor B direction pin 1
const int IN4 = 3;  // Motor B direction pin 2
const int ENB = 2;  // Motor B speed control (PWM)

void setup() {
  // Set motor control pins as outputs
  pinMode(IN1, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(IN2, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(ENA, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(IN3, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(IN4, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(ENB, OUTPUT);
}

void loop() {
  // Motor A: Forward at 50% speed
  digitalWrite(IN1, HIGH);  // Set IN1 high
  digitalWrite(IN2, LOW);   // Set IN2 low
  analogWrite(ENA, 128);    // Set speed to 50% (128 out of 255)

  // Motor B: Backward at 75% speed
  digitalWrite(IN3, LOW);   // Set IN3 low
  digitalWrite(IN4, HIGH);  // Set IN4 high
  analogWrite(ENB, 192);    // Set speed to 75% (192 out of 255)

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

  // Stop both motors
  analogWrite(ENA, 0);      // Stop Motor A
  analogWrite(ENB, 0);      // Stop Motor B

  delay(2000);  // Wait for 2 seconds
}

• Heat Dissipation: The L298N can get hot during operation. Use a heat sink or active cooling for high-current applications.
• Power Supply: Ensure the motor power supply voltage matches the motor's specifications.
• Current Limits: Do not exceed the 2A continuous current rating per channel to avoid damage.
• Grounding: Connect all grounds (module, power supply, and microcontroller) to a common ground.

1. Motors Not Running:

   • Check power connections and ensure the external power supply is sufficient.
   • Verify that the control pins (IN1, IN2, etc.) are receiving the correct signals.

2. Motors Running in the Wrong Direction:

   • Swap the connections of IN1 and IN2 (or IN3 and IN4) to reverse the motor direction.

3. Overheating:

   • Ensure the module has adequate heat dissipation (e.g., heat sink or fan).
   • Reduce the motor load or use motors with lower current requirements.

4. No 5V Output:

   • Check if the 5V-EN jumper is in place. If removed, provide an external 5V supply.

• Can the L298N drive stepper motors? Yes, the L298N can control stepper motors by driving the coils in sequence. Use a stepper motor library for easier implementation.

• What is the maximum voltage the L298N can handle? The L298N can handle up to 46V on the motor power input (12V pin).

• Can I use the L298N with a 3.3V microcontroller? The L298N requires 5V logic levels. Use a level shifter or a 5V microcontroller for compatibility.

• Why is my motor running slowly? Check the PWM signal on the ENA/ENB pins and ensure the power supply voltage is adequate for the motor.