How to Use BTS7960 Motor Driver: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

Design with BTS7960 Motor Driver in Cirkit Designer

Introduction

The BTS7960 Motor Driver is a high-current H-bridge motor driver designed to control the direction and speed of DC motors. It is capable of handling high currents, making it suitable for driving large motors in industrial, robotic, and automotive applications. The module features built-in protection mechanisms, including overcurrent and thermal overload protection, ensuring safe and reliable operation.

Explore Projects Built with BTS7960 Motor Driver

DC Motor Control System with BTS7960 Motor Driver and Arcade Buttons

This circuit controls a DC motor using a BTS7960 motor driver, powered by a 12V power supply and regulated by a DC-DC step-down converter. The motor's operation is controlled via two arcade buttons and a rocker switch, allowing for user input to manage the motor's direction and power.

Open Project in Cirkit Designer

Arduino Mega 2560 Controlled Multi-Motor System with BTS7960 Drivers

This circuit consists of an Arduino Mega 2560 microcontroller connected to eight BTS7960 motor drivers. The Arduino controls the motor drivers through its PWM pins, enabling the control of multiple motors for applications such as robotics or automation systems. The motor drivers are powered by the 5V supply from the Arduino and share a common ground.

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Arduino-Controlled Robotic Motors with Joystick Interface

This is a joystick-controlled motor driving system. An Arduino UNO reads inputs from an Adafruit Arcade Joystick and outputs control signals to BTS7960 motor drivers, which in turn power several 12V geared motors. The system is designed for directional control of motors, suitable for applications such as robotic vehicles or motorized platforms.

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Wi-Fi Controlled Dual Motor System with ESP32 and BTS7960 Drivers

This circuit is designed to control two 775 motors using two BTS7960 motor drivers, which are managed by an ESP32 microcontroller. The power is supplied by a 18650 3s2p battery pack, regulated through a buck converter to provide appropriate voltage levels for the components.

Open Project in Cirkit Designer

Common Applications and Use Cases

Robotic systems and motorized platforms
Electric vehicles and motorized carts
Conveyor belts and industrial automation
High-power DC motor control in hobbyist projects
Smart home devices requiring motorized movement

Technical Specifications

The BTS7960 Motor Driver is designed to handle high-power applications with robust performance. Below are its key technical details:

Key Technical Details

Parameter	Value
Operating Voltage Range	5.5V to 27V
Maximum Continuous Current	43A
Peak Current	50A
PWM Frequency	Up to 25kHz
Logic Voltage	3.3V or 5V (compatible)
Overcurrent Protection	Yes
Thermal Shutdown	Yes
Dimensions	43mm x 45mm x 28mm

Pin Configuration and Descriptions

The BTS7960 module has several pins for motor control and power input. Below is the pinout:

Pin Name	Type	Description
VCC	Power Input	Logic voltage input (3.3V or 5V).
GND	Ground	Common ground for logic and motor power.
RPWM	Input	PWM signal for controlling motor speed in one direction.
LPWM	Input	PWM signal for controlling motor speed in the opposite direction.
R_EN	Input	Enable pin for the right side of the H-bridge.
L_EN	Input	Enable pin for the left side of the H-bridge.
IS	Output	Current sensing output (optional, for monitoring motor current).
V+	Power Input	Motor power supply (5.5V to 27V).
OUT1	Output	Motor terminal 1.
OUT2	Output	Motor terminal 2.

Usage Instructions

The BTS7960 Motor Driver is straightforward to use in a circuit. Below are the steps and best practices for integrating it into your project.

How to Use the BTS7960 in a Circuit

Power Connections:
- Connect the motor power supply to the V+ pin and ground to the GND pin.
- Ensure the power supply voltage is within the range of 5.5V to 27V.
- Connect the logic voltage (3.3V or 5V) to the VCC pin.
Motor Connections:
- Connect the motor terminals to the OUT1 and OUT2 pins.
Control Pins:
- Use the RPWM and LPWM pins to control the motor's speed and direction via PWM signals.
- Enable the H-bridge sides by setting R_EN and L_EN to HIGH.
PWM Control:
- To move the motor in one direction, send a PWM signal to RPWM and set LPWM to LOW.
- To reverse the motor direction, send a PWM signal to LPWM and set RPWM to LOW.

Example Code for Arduino UNO

Below is an example of how to control the BTS7960 Motor Driver using an Arduino UNO:

// Define control pins for the BTS7960
#define RPWM 9  // PWM pin for forward direction
#define LPWM 10 // PWM pin for reverse direction
#define R_EN 7  // Enable pin for right H-bridge
#define L_EN 8  // Enable pin for left H-bridge

void setup() {
  // Set control pins as outputs
  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() {
  // Move motor forward at 50% speed
  analogWrite(RPWM, 128); // 50% duty cycle
  analogWrite(LPWM, 0);   // No reverse signal
  delay(2000);            // Run for 2 seconds

  // Stop the motor
  analogWrite(RPWM, 0);
  analogWrite(LPWM, 0);
  delay(1000);            // Pause for 1 second

  // Move motor in reverse at 75% speed
  analogWrite(RPWM, 0);   // No forward signal
  analogWrite(LPWM, 192); // 75% duty cycle
  delay(2000);            // Run for 2 seconds

  // Stop the motor
  analogWrite(RPWM, 0);
  analogWrite(LPWM, 0);
  delay(1000);            // Pause for 1 second
}

Important Considerations and Best Practices

Heat Dissipation: The BTS7960 can handle high currents, but it may generate heat. Use a heatsink or active cooling for prolonged high-current operation.
Power Supply: Ensure the motor power supply can provide sufficient current for your motor.
Logic Voltage: The module is compatible with both 3.3V and 5V logic levels, making it suitable for most microcontrollers.
Current Monitoring: Use the IS pin to monitor motor current if needed.

Troubleshooting and FAQs

Common Issues and Solutions

Motor Not Running:
- Check power supply connections and ensure the voltage is within the specified range.
- Verify that the R_EN and L_EN pins are set to HIGH.
Motor Running in Only One Direction:
- Ensure the PWM signals are being sent to the correct pins (RPWM and LPWM).
- Check for loose or incorrect wiring.
Overheating:
- Ensure proper heat dissipation using a heatsink or fan.
- Reduce the motor load if it exceeds the driver's current rating.
Erratic Motor Behavior:
- Verify that the power supply is stable and not dropping under load.
- Check for noise or interference in the PWM signals.

FAQs

Q: Can I use the BTS7960 with a 3.3V microcontroller like the ESP32?
A: Yes, the BTS7960 is compatible with both 3.3V and 5V logic levels.

Q: What is the maximum motor voltage I can use?
A: The maximum motor voltage is 27V. Ensure your power supply does not exceed this limit.

Q: How do I stop the motor?
A: To stop the motor, set both RPWM and LPWM to LOW or send a 0% duty cycle PWM signal.

Q: Can I control two motors with one BTS7960 module?
A: No, the BTS7960 is designed to control a single DC motor. For dual-motor control, use two modules.

By following this documentation, you can effectively integrate the BTS7960 Motor Driver into your projects and troubleshoot common issues.