How to Use Gobilda 12VDC Motor: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The Gobilda 12VDC Motor is a compact and efficient direct current motor designed for robotics and automation applications. It provides reliable torque and speed control, making it an ideal choice for projects requiring precise motion and power delivery. This motor is widely used in robotic arms, mobile robots, conveyor systems, and other automated mechanisms due to its robust design and consistent performance.

Below are the key technical details of the Gobilda 12VDC Motor:

The Gobilda 12VDC Motor typically has two terminals for electrical connections:

1. Power Supply: Connect the motor to a 12V DC power source. Ensure the power supply can provide sufficient current (at least 5.5A for stall conditions).
2. Motor Driver: Use a motor driver or H-bridge circuit to control the motor's speed and direction. Directly connecting the motor to a microcontroller is not recommended due to high current requirements.
3. Polarity: Reversing the polarity of the power supply will reverse the motor's rotation direction.
4. Mounting: Secure the motor using compatible mounting brackets to prevent vibration or misalignment during operation.

• Current Limiting: Use a motor driver with current limiting features to protect the motor from damage during stall conditions.
• Heat Dissipation: Avoid prolonged operation at stall torque to prevent overheating. Ensure proper ventilation around the motor.
• Load Matching: Select a gearbox ratio and load that match the motor's torque and speed characteristics for optimal performance.
• Power Supply: Use a regulated 12V DC power supply to ensure stable operation.

Below is an example of how to control the Gobilda 12VDC Motor using an Arduino UNO and an L298N motor driver:

// Include necessary libraries
// No external libraries are required for basic motor control

// Define motor driver pins
const int ENA = 9;  // PWM pin for speed control
const int IN1 = 8;  // Direction control pin 1
const int IN2 = 7;  // Direction control pin 2

void setup() {
  // Set motor driver pins as outputs
  pinMode(ENA, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(IN1, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(IN2, OUTPUT);
}

void loop() {
  // Rotate motor in forward direction
  digitalWrite(IN1, HIGH);  // Set IN1 high
  digitalWrite(IN2, LOW);   // Set IN2 low
  analogWrite(ENA, 128);    // Set speed to 50% (PWM value: 0-255)
  delay(3000);              // Run motor for 3 seconds

  // Stop the motor
  analogWrite(ENA, 0);      // Set speed to 0
  delay(1000);              // Wait for 1 second

  // Rotate motor in reverse direction
  digitalWrite(IN1, LOW);   // Set IN1 low
  digitalWrite(IN2, HIGH);  // Set IN2 high
  analogWrite(ENA, 128);    // Set speed to 50% (PWM value: 0-255)
  delay(3000);              // Run motor for 3 seconds

  // Stop the motor
  analogWrite(ENA, 0);      // Set speed to 0
  delay(1000);              // Wait for 1 second
}

• Ensure the L298N motor driver is connected to a 12V DC power supply.
• The ENA pin controls the motor speed using PWM, while IN1 and IN2 control the direction.

1. Motor Does Not Spin

   • Cause: Insufficient power supply or loose connections.
   • Solution: Verify that the power supply provides 12V DC and sufficient current. Check all connections.

2. Motor Overheats

   • Cause: Prolonged operation at stall torque or excessive load.
   • Solution: Reduce the load or use a current-limiting motor driver. Allow the motor to cool down before resuming operation.

3. Motor Vibrates or Makes Noise

   • Cause: Misalignment or loose mounting.
   • Solution: Secure the motor using proper mounting brackets and ensure alignment with the load.

4. Motor Spins in the Wrong Direction

   • Cause: Incorrect polarity or wiring.
   • Solution: Reverse the connections to the motor terminals or adjust the control signals.

• Q: Can I power the motor with a voltage higher than 12V?
  A: No, exceeding 12V may damage the motor. Always use a regulated 12V DC power supply.

• Q: Is the motor compatible with PWM speed control?
  A: Yes, the motor supports PWM-based speed control when used with a compatible motor driver.

• Q: Can the motor be used for continuous operation?
  A: Yes, but ensure proper ventilation and avoid operating at stall torque for extended periods.

• Q: What is the maximum load the motor can handle?
  A: The motor can handle loads up to its stall torque of 11.3 kg·cm, but operating near stall conditions should be avoided to prevent overheating.