How to Use TMC2226 Stepper Driver: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The TMC2226 is a high-performance stepper motor driver manufactured by Trinamic (TMC). It is designed for precise and efficient control of stepper motors, offering advanced features such as microstepping, current control, and low-noise operation. The TMC2226 is particularly well-suited for applications requiring smooth and quiet motor operation, such as 3D printers, CNC machines, and robotics.

• 3D printers for precise and quiet motor control
• CNC machines for accurate positioning
• Robotics for smooth and efficient motion
• Automated systems requiring low-noise stepper motor operation

The TMC2226 is a versatile and feature-rich stepper driver. Below are its key technical specifications:

The TMC2226 comes in a 28-pin HTSSOP package. Below is the pin configuration and description:

Refer to the TMC2226 datasheet for a complete pinout and detailed descriptions.

1. Power Supply: Connect the motor power supply (V_M) to a voltage source between 4.75V and 29V. Ensure the logic voltage (V_IO) matches your microcontroller's logic level (3.3V or 5V).
2. Motor Connections: Connect the stepper motor's two coils to the appropriate motor phase output pins.
3. Control Signals: Use the STEP and DIR pins to control the motor's movement and direction. Optionally, configure microstepping using the MS1 and MS2 pins.
4. UART Configuration: For advanced features like StealthChop2™ or StallGuard4™, connect the UART pin to your microcontroller for communication.
5. Enable Pin: Pull the ENN pin low to enable the driver.

• Heat Dissipation: The TMC2226 can generate heat during operation. Use a heatsink or ensure proper ventilation to prevent overheating.
• Microstepping: For smoother motor operation, configure the driver for higher microstepping resolutions (e.g., 1/16 or 1/256 steps).
• Current Limiting: Set the motor current limit appropriately to avoid damaging the motor or driver.
• Noise Reduction: Enable StealthChop2™ mode for ultra-quiet operation, especially in noise-sensitive applications.

Below is an example of how to control a stepper motor using the TMC2226 and an Arduino UNO:

// Include necessary libraries
#include <TMCStepper.h>

// Define TMC2226 pins
#define EN_PIN 8    // Enable pin
#define DIR_PIN 5   // Direction pin
#define STEP_PIN 6  // Step pin
#define SERIAL_PORT Serial  // UART communication port

// Define motor current (in milliamps)
#define R_SENSE 0.11  // Sense resistor value
TMC2226Stepper driver(&SERIAL_PORT, R_SENSE);  // Initialize driver

void setup() {
  pinMode(EN_PIN, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(DIR_PIN, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(STEP_PIN, OUTPUT);

  digitalWrite(EN_PIN, LOW);  // Enable the driver

  SERIAL_PORT.begin(115200);  // Initialize UART communication
  driver.begin();             // Initialize TMC2226
  driver.toff(5);             // Enable driver
  driver.rms_current(800);    // Set motor current to 800mA
  driver.microsteps(16);      // Set microstepping to 1/16
}

void loop() {
  digitalWrite(DIR_PIN, HIGH);  // Set direction
  for (int i = 0; i < 200; i++) {
    digitalWrite(STEP_PIN, HIGH);
    delayMicroseconds(1000);  // Step delay
    digitalWrite(STEP_PIN, LOW);
    delayMicroseconds(1000);
  }
  delay(1000);  // Wait before changing direction

  digitalWrite(DIR_PIN, LOW);  // Reverse direction
  for (int i = 0; i < 200; i++) {
    digitalWrite(STEP_PIN, HIGH);
    delayMicroseconds(1000);
    digitalWrite(STEP_PIN, LOW);
    delayMicroseconds(1000);
  }
  delay(1000);
}

1. Motor Not Moving:

   • Ensure the ENN pin is pulled low to enable the driver.
   • Verify the STEP and DIR signals are being sent correctly.
   • Check the motor connections and ensure the power supply is adequate.

2. Overheating:

   • Use a heatsink or improve ventilation around the driver.
   • Reduce the motor current limit using the UART interface or configuration pins.

3. Noisy Operation:

   • Enable StealthChop2™ mode for quieter operation.
   • Check for loose connections or mechanical issues with the motor.

4. Stall Detection Not Working:

   • Ensure StallGuard4™ is enabled and properly configured via UART.
   • Verify the motor current and load conditions are within the recommended range.

Q: Can the TMC2226 operate without UART?
A: Yes, the TMC2226 can operate in standalone mode using the STEP, DIR, and microstepping pins. However, UART is required for advanced features like StealthChop2™ and StallGuard4™.

Q: What is the maximum microstepping resolution?
A: The TMC2226 supports up to 1/256 microstepping for ultra-smooth motor operation.

Q: How do I set the motor current limit?
A: The motor current limit can be set via UART or by adjusting the sense resistor value (R_SENSE).

Q: Is the TMC2226 compatible with 5V logic?
A: Yes, the TMC2226 supports both 3.3V and 5V logic levels for compatibility with a wide range of microcontrollers.