How to Use VNH2SP30: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The VNH2SP30 is a full-bridge motor driver integrated circuit (IC) designed for driving high-power DC motors. It is capable of delivering a continuous current of up to 14A and can handle peak currents up to 30A. This IC is well-suited for applications in robotics, automotive, and industrial automation where precise and efficient motor control is required. Its built-in protection features make it a robust and reliable choice for engineers and hobbyists alike.

• Robotic vehicles and arms
• Automotive electronic throttle control
• Industrial automation systems
• High-power DC motor control applications

• Motor Supply Voltage (Vcc): 5.5V to 16V
• Logic Supply Voltage (Vss): 2.5V to 5.5V
• Continuous Output Current (Iout): 14A
• Peak Output Current (Ipeak): 30A (for a few milliseconds)
• PWM Frequency: Up to 20 kHz

1. Power Connections: Connect the motor supply voltage (Vcc) to pin 1 and ground (GND) to pin 2.
2. Control Inputs: Connect INA and INB (pins 3 and 4) to your microcontroller or control circuit to set the motor direction.
3. PWM Input: Apply a PWM signal to the PWM pin (pin 5) to control the speed of the motor.
4. Enable Pin: Set the EN pin (pin 7) high to enable the driver.
5. Current Sensing: The CS pin (pin 6) provides an analog voltage proportional to the motor current.
6. Diagnostics: DIAGA and DIAGB (pins 8 and 9) can be used to monitor the status of the driver and motor.

• Ensure that the power supply voltage does not exceed the maximum rating of 16V.
• Use a proper heat sink to dissipate heat during high current operation.
• Implement flyback diodes on the motor terminals if inductive loads are used.
• Avoid running the motor driver at its peak current rating for extended periods to prevent thermal shutdown.
• Use short and thick wires for motor connections to minimize voltage drops and power losses.

• Motor not running: Check power supply connections, ensure the EN pin is set high, and verify that the PWM signal is being applied.
• Overheating: Make sure a heat sink is attached and that the current does not exceed the continuous rating for extended periods.
• Erratic motor behavior: Confirm that the input signals (INA, INB, PWM) are clean and without noise.

• Double-check wiring and solder joints for any loose connections or shorts.
• Use an oscilloscope to examine the control signals for integrity.
• Ensure that the power supply is capable of delivering the required current for your motor.

Q: Can I drive two motors with one VNH2SP30? A: No, the VNH2SP30 is designed to drive one motor. For two motors, you would need two ICs.

Q: What is the maximum PWM frequency I can use? A: The VNH2SP30 can handle PWM frequencies up to 20 kHz.

Q: How do I use the current sense feature? A: The CS pin outputs an analog voltage proportional to the motor current. You can read this voltage with an ADC to monitor the current draw.

// Define control pins for VNH2SP30
const int inAPin = 2; // INA pin
const int inBPin = 3; // INB pin
const int pwmPin = 5; // PWM pin
const int enPin = 4;  // Enable pin

void setup() {
  // Set control pins as outputs
  pinMode(inAPin, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(inBPin, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(pwmPin, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(enPin, OUTPUT);

  // Enable the motor driver
  digitalWrite(enPin, HIGH);
}

void loop() {
  // Set motor direction to forward
  digitalWrite(inAPin, HIGH);
  digitalWrite(inBPin, LOW);

  // Set motor speed (PWM value 0 to 255)
  analogWrite(pwmPin, 128); // 50% duty cycle

  // Add a delay to see the motor in action
  delay(2000);

  // Change motor direction to reverse
  digitalWrite(inAPin, LOW);
  digitalWrite(inBPin, HIGH);

  // Keep the same motor speed
  delay(2000);
}

Remember to adjust the PWM value to control the speed of the motor and ensure that the control signals do not exceed the logic supply voltage (Vss) limits.