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

A motor driver is an essential component in robotics and automation, allowing precise control over the speed and direction of motors. The Cytron 2020 motor driver is a versatile and robust module designed to interface with a wide range of motors, including DC, stepper, and servo motors. Common applications include robotic vehicles, conveyor systems, and positioning mechanisms.

• Operating Voltage: 6V to 30V
• Continuous Current: Up to 10A
• Peak Current: Up to 30A (for a few seconds)
• Control Signal Input Voltage: 3.3V to 5V (TTL compatible)
• Dimensions: 75mm x 43mm x 42mm

1. Power Connections: Connect the motor power supply to the VCC and GND pins, ensuring the voltage is within the specified range.
2. Motor Connections: Attach the motor leads to the A+ and A- pins (and B+ and B- if using a bipolar stepper motor).
3. Control Connections: Connect the PWM pin to a PWM-capable pin on your microcontroller for speed control. The DIR pin determines the motor's direction, and the EN pin can be used to enable or disable the motor driver.

• Ensure the power supply can handle the motor's current requirements.
• Use appropriate flyback diodes to protect against voltage spikes when driving inductive loads.
• Avoid running the motor driver at its peak current for extended periods to prevent overheating.
• Implement proper heat dissipation techniques if operating near the maximum current rating.

// Define motor driver control pins
const int pwmPin = 3; // PWM input for speed control
const int dirPin = 4; // Direction control input
const int enPin = 5;  // Enable input for the motor driver

void setup() {
  // Set motor driver pins as outputs
  pinMode(pwmPin, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(dirPin, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(enPin, OUTPUT);

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

void loop() {
  // Set motor direction to clockwise
  digitalWrite(dirPin, HIGH);
  // Set motor speed to 50% duty cycle
  analogWrite(pwmPin, 127);
  delay(2000);

  // Set motor direction to counter-clockwise
  digitalWrite(dirPin, LOW);
  // Set motor speed to 75% duty cycle
  analogWrite(pwmPin, 191);
  delay(2000);
}

• Motor not running: Check power supply connections and ensure the EN pin is set high.
• Motor running hot: Ensure the current draw is within the driver's limits and improve cooling.
• Inconsistent motor speed: Verify the PWM signal is stable and within the correct voltage range.

• Use a multimeter to check connections and signal levels.
• Implement a soft start mechanism to reduce inrush current.
• If using long wires, consider using twisted pairs to reduce electromagnetic interference.

Q: Can I drive two motors with this motor driver? A: Yes, the Cytron 2020 motor driver can control two motors if they are within the current and voltage specifications.

Q: What is the maximum frequency for the PWM input? A: The maximum recommended frequency for the PWM input is 25kHz.

Q: How do I reverse the motor direction? A: Change the logic level of the DIR pin to reverse the motor's direction.

Q: Can I use this motor driver with a microcontroller that operates at 3.3V logic? A: Yes, the control signal input is TTL compatible and can accept 3.3V logic levels.