How to Use tb6612fng: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The TB6612FNG is a dual H-bridge motor driver IC designed for controlling two DC motors or one stepper motor. It supports PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) control for precise speed regulation and direction control. This compact and efficient IC is widely used in robotics, automation, and other motor control applications. Additionally, it includes built-in protection features such as thermal shutdown and overcurrent protection, making it a reliable choice for motor control projects.

• Robotics (e.g., controlling wheels or arms)
• Automated conveyor systems
• Remote-controlled vehicles
• Stepper motor control for 3D printers or CNC machines
• DIY electronics and Arduino-based projects

The TB6612FNG has 16 pins, each serving a specific function. Below is the pinout and description:

1. Power Connections:

   • Connect the VM pin to the motor power supply (4.5V to 13.5V).
   • Connect the VCC pin to the logic power supply (2.7V to 5.5V).
   • Connect the GND pin to the ground of the circuit.

2. Motor Connections:

   • Connect the motor terminals to the A01 and A02 pins for Motor A, and B01 and B02 pins for Motor B.

3. Control Signals:

   • Use the AIN1 and AIN2 pins to control the direction of Motor A, and BIN1 and BIN2 for Motor B.
   • Use the PWMA and PWMB pins to control the speed of Motor A and Motor B, respectively, by providing a PWM signal.
   • Set the STBY pin HIGH to enable the IC.

4. PWM Frequency:

   • The recommended PWM frequency is up to 100 kHz for optimal performance.

Below is an example of how to control two DC motors using the TB6612FNG and an Arduino UNO.

• Connect VM to a 9V power supply and VCC to the Arduino's 5V pin.
• Connect GND to the Arduino's GND.
• Connect AIN1, AIN2, PWMA, BIN1, BIN2, and PWMB to Arduino digital pins.
• Connect the motors to A01, A02, B01, and B02.

// Define motor control pins
const int AIN1 = 7;  // Motor A direction pin 1
const int AIN2 = 6;  // Motor A direction pin 2
const int PWMA = 5;  // Motor A speed (PWM) pin
const int BIN1 = 4;  // Motor B direction pin 1
const int BIN2 = 3;  // Motor B direction pin 2
const int PWMB = 2;  // Motor B speed (PWM) pin
const int STBY = 8;  // Standby pin

void setup() {
  // Set motor control pins as outputs
  pinMode(AIN1, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(AIN2, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(PWMA, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(BIN1, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(BIN2, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(PWMB, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(STBY, OUTPUT);

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

void loop() {
  // Motor A: Forward at 50% speed
  digitalWrite(AIN1, HIGH);
  digitalWrite(AIN2, LOW);
  analogWrite(PWMA, 128);  // 50% duty cycle (0-255)

  // Motor B: Reverse at 75% speed
  digitalWrite(BIN1, LOW);
  digitalWrite(BIN2, HIGH);
  analogWrite(PWMB, 192);  // 75% duty cycle (0-255)

  delay(2000);  // Run motors for 2 seconds

  // Stop both motors
  analogWrite(PWMA, 0);
  analogWrite(PWMB, 0);

  delay(2000);  // Wait for 2 seconds
}

• Ensure that the motor power supply (VM) matches the voltage requirements of your motors.
• Use decoupling capacitors (e.g., 0.1 µF and 100 µF) near the VM and VCC pins to reduce noise.
• Avoid exceeding the maximum current ratings to prevent damage to the IC.
• Always set the STBY pin HIGH to enable the IC before sending control signals.

1. Motors Not Running:

   • Ensure the STBY pin is set HIGH.
   • Verify that the power supply is connected and providing the correct voltage.
   • Check the PWM signal and ensure it is within the recommended frequency range.

2. Overheating:

   • Ensure the current drawn by the motors does not exceed the IC's maximum ratings.
   • Use a heat sink or improve ventilation if necessary.

3. Erratic Motor Behavior:

   • Check for loose connections or poor soldering.
   • Add decoupling capacitors to reduce electrical noise.

4. No Output on Motor Pins:

   • Verify the logic levels on the control pins (AIN1, AIN2, BIN1, BIN2).
   • Ensure the IC is not in thermal shutdown or overcurrent protection mode.

Q: Can the TB6612FNG drive stepper motors?
A: Yes, the TB6612FNG can drive a single stepper motor by controlling the two H-bridges. You will need to generate the appropriate step and direction signals.

Q: What is the maximum PWM frequency supported?
A: The TB6612FNG supports PWM frequencies up to 100 kHz.

Q: Can I use the TB6612FNG with a 3.3V microcontroller?
A: Yes, the TB6612FNG supports logic levels as low as 2.7V, making it compatible with 3.3V microcontrollers.

Q: Is it necessary to use the STBY pin?
A: Yes, the STBY pin must be set HIGH to enable the IC. If left LOW, the IC will remain in standby mode and the motors will not operate.