How to Use MDD10A Dual channel 10A DC Motor Driver: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The MDD10A Dual Channel 10A DC Motor Driver (Manufacturer Part ID: MDD10A REV2.0) is a robust and versatile motor driver designed by Cytron. It is capable of controlling two DC motors simultaneously, with each channel supporting a maximum continuous current of 10A. The driver allows for bidirectional control and speed regulation, making it ideal for robotics, automation systems, and other motor control applications.

• Robotics (e.g., mobile robots, robotic arms)
• Automated conveyor systems
• Electric vehicles and carts
• DIY motorized projects
• Industrial motor control systems

• Input Voltage Range: 7V to 30V DC
• Maximum Continuous Current: 10A per channel
• Peak Current: 30A (for a few seconds)
• Control Signals:
  • PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) for speed control
  • Direction control via digital inputs
• PWM Frequency: Up to 20 kHz
• Logic Voltage: 3.3V or 5V compatible
• Thermal Protection: Built-in over-temperature shutdown
• Reverse Polarity Protection: Yes
• Dimensions: 84mm x 62mm x 25mm
• Weight: Approximately 80g

The MDD10A has two sets of input pins for motor control and two sets of output terminals for connecting motors. Below is the pin configuration:

1. Power Supply: Connect a DC power supply (7V to 30V) to the VIN+ and VIN- terminals. Ensure the power supply can handle the current requirements of your motors.
2. Motor Connections: Connect the DC motors to the MOTOR1+/MOTOR1- and MOTOR2+/MOTOR2- terminals.
3. Control Signals:
   • Connect the DIR1, PWM1, DIR2, and PWM2 pins to a microcontroller (e.g., Arduino UNO) or other control circuitry.
   • Use the VCC pin to provide the logic voltage (3.3V or 5V) and connect the GND pin to the ground of your control circuit.
4. Direction Control: Set the DIR pins to HIGH or LOW to control the rotation direction of the motors.
5. Speed Control: Provide a PWM signal (0% to 100% duty cycle) to the PWM pins to control motor speed.

• Heat Dissipation: The MDD10A has built-in thermal protection, but for prolonged high-current operation, ensure proper ventilation or use a heat sink.
• Current Limitation: Avoid exceeding the 10A continuous current rating per channel to prevent damage.
• PWM Frequency: Use a PWM frequency of up to 20 kHz for optimal performance.
• Reverse Polarity: Ensure correct polarity when connecting the power supply to avoid damage.

Below is an example of how to control two DC motors using the MDD10A and an Arduino UNO:

• Connect DIR1, PWM1, DIR2, and PWM2 to Arduino digital pins (e.g., 7, 6, 5, and 4, respectively).
• Connect VCC to the Arduino's 5V pin and GND to the Arduino's GND pin.
• Connect the motors and power supply as described above.

// Define control pins for Motor 1
const int dir1Pin = 7;  // Direction control for Motor 1
const int pwm1Pin = 6;  // Speed control (PWM) for Motor 1

// Define control pins for Motor 2
const int dir2Pin = 5;  // Direction control for Motor 2
const int pwm2Pin = 4;  // Speed control (PWM) for Motor 2

void setup() {
  // Set motor control pins as outputs
  pinMode(dir1Pin, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(pwm1Pin, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(dir2Pin, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(pwm2Pin, OUTPUT);
}

void loop() {
  // Example: Run Motor 1 forward at 50% speed
  digitalWrite(dir1Pin, HIGH);  // Set direction to forward
  analogWrite(pwm1Pin, 128);   // Set speed (128/255 = 50%)

  // Example: Run Motor 2 backward at 75% speed
  digitalWrite(dir2Pin, LOW);  // Set direction to backward
  analogWrite(pwm2Pin, 192);  // Set speed (192/255 = 75%)

  delay(5000);  // Run for 5 seconds

  // Stop both motors
  analogWrite(pwm1Pin, 0);  // Stop Motor 1
  analogWrite(pwm2Pin, 0);  // Stop Motor 2

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

1. Motors Not Running:

   • Check the power supply voltage and ensure it is within the 7V to 30V range.
   • Verify that the DIR and PWM signals are correctly connected and configured.
   • Ensure the motors are properly connected to the output terminals.

2. Overheating:

   • Ensure the current drawn by the motors does not exceed 10A per channel.
   • Provide adequate ventilation or use a heat sink if operating at high currents.

3. No Response to PWM Signals:

   • Confirm that the PWM frequency is within the supported range (up to 20 kHz).
   • Check the logic voltage (VCC) and ensure it matches the control circuit (3.3V or 5V).

4. Motor Running in the Wrong Direction:

   • Reverse the DIR pin signal (HIGH to LOW or LOW to HIGH) to change the motor direction.

• Can I use the MDD10A with a 3.3V microcontroller? Yes, the MDD10A is compatible with both 3.3V and 5V logic levels.

• What happens if the current exceeds 10A? The MDD10A has built-in thermal protection and will shut down temporarily to prevent damage.

• Can I control only one motor with the MDD10A? Yes, you can use just one channel if needed. Leave the unused channel unconnected.

• Is the MDD10A suitable for stepper motors? No, the MDD10A is designed for DC motors and is not compatible with stepper motors.