How to Use L298N DC motor driver: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The L298N DC Motor Driver Module, manufactured by STM32 with part ID Uno, is a versatile and robust dual H-bridge motor driver. It allows for the control of the speed and direction of two DC motors independently. With a current handling capacity of up to 2A per channel, it is widely used in robotics, automation projects, and other applications requiring precise motor control.

1. Power Connections:

   • Connect the VCC pin to the power supply for the motors (5V to 35V).
   • Connect the GND pin to the ground of the power supply.
   • Connect the 5V pin to the 5V logic supply (e.g., from an Arduino).

2. Motor Connections:

   • Connect the motor terminals to OUT1 and OUT2 for Motor A.
   • Connect the motor terminals to OUT3 and OUT4 for Motor B.

3. Control Connections:

   • Connect ENA to a PWM-capable pin on the microcontroller to control the speed of Motor A.
   • Connect IN1 and IN2 to digital pins on the microcontroller to control the direction of Motor A.
   • Connect ENB to a PWM-capable pin on the microcontroller to control the speed of Motor B.
   • Connect IN3 and IN4 to digital pins on the microcontroller to control the direction of Motor B.

• Ensure that the power supply voltage matches the motor's voltage rating.
• Use appropriate heat sinks if the module is expected to handle high currents for extended periods.
• Avoid sudden changes in direction at high speeds to prevent damage to the motors and the driver module.
• Use proper decoupling capacitors to minimize noise and voltage spikes.

// Define motor control pins
const int ENA = 9;  // PWM pin for Motor A speed control
const int IN1 = 8;  // Direction control pin for Motor A
const int IN2 = 7;  // Direction control pin for Motor A
const int ENB = 10; // PWM pin for Motor B speed control
const int IN3 = 6;  // Direction control pin for Motor B
const int IN4 = 5;  // Direction control pin for Motor B

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

void loop() {
  // Example: Rotate Motor A forward at half speed
  digitalWrite(IN1, HIGH);
  digitalWrite(IN2, LOW);
  analogWrite(ENA, 128); // 50% duty cycle

  // Example: Rotate Motor B backward at full speed
  digitalWrite(IN3, LOW);
  digitalWrite(IN4, HIGH);
  analogWrite(ENB, 255); // 100% duty cycle

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

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

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

1. Motors Not Running:

   • Check power connections and ensure the power supply is adequate.
   • Verify that the enable pins (ENA and ENB) are set high or receiving a PWM signal.

2. Motors Running in the Wrong Direction:

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

3. Overheating:

   • Ensure proper heat dissipation with heat sinks or cooling fans.
   • Check for excessive current draw and reduce the load if necessary.

• Check Connections: Ensure all connections are secure and correctly placed.
• Measure Voltages: Use a multimeter to check the voltage levels at various points in the circuit.
• Use Serial Monitor: Implement serial debugging in your code to monitor the status of control signals.
• Consult Datasheets: Refer to the L298N datasheet for detailed electrical characteristics and limitations.

By following this documentation, users can effectively utilize the L298N DC Motor Driver Module in their projects, ensuring reliable and efficient motor control.