How to Use SparkFun Motor Driver TB6612FNG (v11): Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The SparkFun Motor Driver TB6612FNG (v11) is a versatile and efficient dual H-bridge motor driver capable of controlling two DC motors independently or one bipolar stepper motor. Its compact form factor and ease of use make it an excellent choice for small robotics projects, educational purposes, and hobbyist applications.

• Driving small to medium DC motors
• Controlling a single bipolar stepper motor
• Robotics projects
• Educational platforms for learning motor control
• DIY projects requiring motor control

• Motor Supply Voltage (VM): 2.5V to 13.5V
• Logic Supply Voltage (VCC): 2.7V to 5.5V
• Output Current (continuous): 1.2A per channel
• Output Peak Current (non-repetitive): 3.2A
• Standby Control to Save Power
• Built-in Thermal Shutdown Circuit and Low Voltage Detecting Circuit

1. Power Connections:

   • Connect the motor power supply to the VM pin.
   • Connect the logic power supply from the control board to the VCC pin.
   • Ensure that the ground from the control board and the motor power supply are common and connected to the GND pin.

2. Motor Connections:

   • Connect the two terminals of motor A to the A01 and A02 pins.
   • Connect the two terminals of motor B to the B01 and B02 pins.

3. Control Connections:

   • Connect the control inputs (AIN1, AIN2, BIN1, BIN2) to the digital outputs on the control board.
   • Connect the PWM inputs (PWMA, PWMB) to the PWM-capable outputs on the control board for speed control.
   • The STBY pin must be driven high to take the driver out of standby mode.

• Ensure that the power supply voltage does not exceed the maximum ratings for VM and VCC.
• Use PWM signals for speed control to avoid sudden current spikes.
• Always put the driver into standby mode when not in use to save power.
• Provide adequate cooling if the driver is expected to handle currents near the maximum continuous rating.

• Motor not running: Check power supply connections, ensure that the STBY pin is driven high, and verify that the control inputs are correctly configured.
• Overheating: Ensure that the current draw is within the limits and consider adding a heatsink or improving airflow around the driver.

• Check Connections: Double-check all connections, including power, ground, and control signals.
• Test Power Supply: Verify that the power supply is providing the correct voltage and is capable of supplying sufficient current.
• Signal Integrity: Ensure that PWM and control signals are clean and free from noise.

// Define the connections to the TB6612FNG
const int PWMA = 3; // PWM control for motor A
const int AIN1 = 4; // Direction control for motor A
const int AIN2 = 5; // Direction control for motor A
const int STBY = 6; // Standby

void setup() {
  // Set all the motor control pins to outputs
  pinMode(PWMA, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(AIN1, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(AIN2, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(STBY, OUTPUT);

  // Take the motor driver out of standby
  digitalWrite(STBY, HIGH);
}

void loop() {
  // Set motor A to spin in one direction
  digitalWrite(AIN1, HIGH);
  digitalWrite(AIN2, LOW);
  analogWrite(PWMA, 128); // Set speed (0 to 255)

  delay(1000); // Run for 1 second

  // Set motor A to spin in the opposite direction
  digitalWrite(AIN1, LOW);
  digitalWrite(AIN2, HIGH);
  analogWrite(PWMA, 128); // Set speed (0 to 255)

  delay(1000); // Run for 1 second

  // Stop the motor
  digitalWrite(AIN1, LOW);
  digitalWrite(AIN2, LOW);
  analogWrite(PWMA, 0); // Set speed to zero (motor off)

  delay(1000); // Wait for 1 second
}

This example demonstrates basic forward and reverse control of a motor connected to motor driver A. Adjust the analogWrite value between 0 and 255 to control the speed of the motor.