How to Use Pololu - 0J10137: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The Pololu 0J10137 is a compact, high-performance motor driver designed for controlling small DC motors and stepper motors. It features built-in protection mechanisms, including overcurrent and thermal overload protection, making it a reliable choice for a wide range of motor control applications. Its small form factor and robust design make it ideal for robotics, automation systems, and other projects requiring precise motor control.

• Robotics and automation systems
• Small DC motor control in hobbyist projects
• Stepper motor control for 3D printers and CNC machines
• Educational and prototyping purposes
• Battery-powered motorized devices

The Pololu 0J10137 motor driver offers the following key technical specifications:

The Pololu 0J10137 has a simple pinout for easy integration into your circuit. Below is the pin configuration:

1. Power Supply: Connect the VIN pin to a power source within the range of 4.5 V to 28 V. Ensure the power supply can provide sufficient current for your motor.
2. Ground Connection: Connect the GND pin to the ground of your circuit.
3. Motor Connections: Connect the motor terminals to the VOUT pins.
4. Control Signals: Use the AIN1, AIN2, BIN1, and BIN2 pins to control the direction of the motors. Apply PWM signals to the PWM pin to control motor speed.
5. Logic Voltage: Ensure the control signals are within the logic voltage range (2.5 V to 5.5 V).

• Heat Dissipation: The driver may heat up during operation. Ensure proper ventilation or use a heatsink if necessary.
• Current Limiting: Avoid exceeding the peak current rating of 2 A per channel to prevent damage.
• Decoupling Capacitors: Place a decoupling capacitor (e.g., 100 µF) across the VIN and GND pins to stabilize the power supply.
• Motor Selection: Use motors that operate within the voltage and current limits of the driver.

Below is an example of how to control a DC motor using the Pololu 0J10137 with an Arduino UNO:

// Define motor control pins
const int AIN1 = 3;  // Motor A control pin 1
const int AIN2 = 4;  // Motor A control pin 2
const int PWM = 5;   // PWM pin for speed control

void setup() {
  // Set motor control pins as outputs
  pinMode(AIN1, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(AIN2, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(PWM, OUTPUT);
}

void loop() {
  // Rotate motor forward
  digitalWrite(AIN1, HIGH);  // Set AIN1 high
  digitalWrite(AIN2, LOW);   // Set AIN2 low
  analogWrite(PWM, 128);     // Set speed to 50% (PWM value: 0-255)
  delay(2000);               // Run for 2 seconds

  // Rotate motor backward
  digitalWrite(AIN1, LOW);   // Set AIN1 low
  digitalWrite(AIN2, HIGH);  // Set AIN2 high
  analogWrite(PWM, 128);     // Set speed to 50%
  delay(2000);               // Run for 2 seconds

  // Stop motor
  digitalWrite(AIN1, LOW);   // Set AIN1 low
  digitalWrite(AIN2, LOW);   // Set AIN2 low
  analogWrite(PWM, 0);       // Set speed to 0%
  delay(2000);               // Stop for 2 seconds
}

1. Motor Not Spinning:

   • Ensure the power supply is connected and within the specified voltage range.
   • Verify that the control signals (AIN1, AIN2, BIN1, BIN2) are correctly configured.
   • Check for loose or incorrect wiring.

2. Overheating:

   • Ensure the motor driver is not exceeding its current or voltage limits.
   • Improve ventilation or add a heatsink to dissipate heat.

3. Erratic Motor Behavior:

   • Check for noise or instability in the power supply. Add a decoupling capacitor if needed.
   • Verify that the PWM signal is stable and within the correct frequency range.

4. Driver Shutting Down:

   • This may be due to thermal or overcurrent protection. Reduce the load on the motor or improve cooling.

Q: Can I use this driver for stepper motors?
A: Yes, the Pololu 0J10137 can control stepper motors. Use both channels (A and B) to drive the two coils of the stepper motor.

Q: What is the recommended PWM frequency?
A: A PWM frequency between 20 kHz and 50 kHz is recommended for optimal performance.

Q: Can I use this driver with a 3.3 V microcontroller?
A: Yes, the driver supports logic voltages as low as 2.5 V, making it compatible with 3.3 V systems.

Q: Is reverse polarity protection included?
A: No, the driver does not have reverse polarity protection. Ensure correct polarity when connecting the power supply.