How to Use BTS7960: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The BTS7960 is a high-current H-bridge motor driver IC designed for controlling DC motors. It is capable of handling up to 43A of continuous current, making it suitable for high-power applications. The device is widely used in robotics, automation, and industrial motor control systems due to its efficiency and robust design. Additionally, the BTS7960 includes built-in protection mechanisms such as over-temperature and over-current protection, ensuring reliable operation in demanding environments.

• Robotics (e.g., controlling robot wheels or arms)
• Industrial automation systems
• Electric vehicle motor control
• Conveyor belt systems
• High-power DC motor control in hobbyist projects

The BTS7960 is a powerful motor driver with the following key specifications:

The BTS7960 module typically comes with the following pins:

1. Power Supply: Connect the VCC pin to a power source that matches the motor's voltage requirements (5.5V to 27V). Ensure the power supply can provide sufficient current for the motor.
2. Motor Connection: Connect the motor terminals to the Motor+ and Motor- pins.
3. Logic Inputs: Use the RPWM and LPWM pins to control the motor's speed and direction. These pins accept PWM signals from a microcontroller (e.g., Arduino).
4. Enable Pins: Set the R_EN and L_EN pins HIGH to enable the respective sides of the H-bridge.
5. Ground: Connect the GND pin to the ground of the power supply and the microcontroller.

• Use a heat sink or active cooling if operating at high currents for extended periods.
• Ensure proper decoupling capacitors are used near the VCC pin to reduce noise and voltage spikes.
• Avoid exceeding the voltage and current ratings to prevent damage to the module.
• Use appropriate fuses or circuit breakers for additional protection.

Below is an example of how to control a DC motor using the BTS7960 and an Arduino UNO:

• Connect the BTS7960's VCC and GND to the motor power supply.
• Connect Motor+ and Motor- to the DC motor terminals.
• Connect RPWM and LPWM to Arduino PWM pins (e.g., pins 5 and 6).
• Connect R_EN and L_EN to Arduino digital pins (e.g., pins 7 and 8).
• Connect the BTS7960's GND to the Arduino's GND.

// Define pins for BTS7960 connections
const int RPWM = 5;  // Right PWM pin
const int LPWM = 6;  // Left PWM pin
const int R_EN = 7;  // Right enable pin
const int L_EN = 8;  // Left enable pin

void setup() {
  // Set pin modes
  pinMode(RPWM, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(LPWM, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(R_EN, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(L_EN, OUTPUT);

  // Enable both sides of the H-bridge
  digitalWrite(R_EN, HIGH);
  digitalWrite(L_EN, HIGH);
}

void loop() {
  // Example: Rotate motor forward at 50% speed
  analogWrite(RPWM, 128);  // 50% duty cycle
  analogWrite(LPWM, 0);    // No signal to LPWM
  delay(2000);             // Run for 2 seconds

  // Example: Rotate motor backward at 75% speed
  analogWrite(RPWM, 0);    // No signal to RPWM
  analogWrite(LPWM, 192);  // 75% duty cycle
  delay(2000);             // Run for 2 seconds

  // Stop the motor
  analogWrite(RPWM, 0);
  analogWrite(LPWM, 0);
  delay(2000);             // Wait for 2 seconds
}

• Use PWM signals with a frequency below 25kHz for optimal performance.
• Ensure the motor's current rating does not exceed the BTS7960's maximum continuous current rating.
• Test the circuit with a lower current motor before using high-power motors.

1. Motor Not Running

   • Cause: Incorrect wiring or insufficient power supply.
   • Solution: Double-check all connections and ensure the power supply meets the motor's requirements.

2. Overheating

   • Cause: Prolonged operation at high currents without proper cooling.
   • Solution: Add a heat sink or active cooling to the BTS7960 module.

3. Erratic Motor Behavior

   • Cause: Noise or insufficient decoupling.
   • Solution: Add decoupling capacitors near the VCC pin and ensure proper grounding.

4. Arduino Not Controlling the Motor

   • Cause: Incorrect logic level or pin configuration.
   • Solution: Verify the Arduino code and ensure the RPWM and LPWM pins are connected to PWM-capable pins.

1. Can the BTS7960 drive stepper motors?

   • No, the BTS7960 is designed for DC motors and cannot directly control stepper motors.

2. What is the purpose of the IS pin?

   • The IS pin provides a current sensing output, which can be used to monitor the motor's current draw.

3. Can I use the BTS7960 with a 3.3V microcontroller?

   • Yes, the logic inputs are compatible with both 3.3V and 5V signals.

4. What happens if the motor draws more than 43A?

   • The BTS7960's over-current protection will activate, shutting down the output to protect the module.

By following this documentation, you can effectively use the BTS7960 motor driver in your projects.