L298N Motor Driver Module

🔧 L298N Motor Driver Module
🧠 Main Controller
Driver IC: L298N dual H-bridge motor driver IC
Type: Dual H-Bridge motor driver
Function: Controls direction and speed of two DC motors or one stepper motor
⚡ Electrical Characteristics
Operating Voltage (Logic): 5V
Motor Supply Voltage (Vs): 5V to 35V
Max Output Current:
2A per channel (peak)
~1–1.5A continuous (with heatsink)
Total Power Dissipation: ~25W (with proper cooling)
🔌 Motor Control Capability
Motor Channels:
2 DC motors independently
OR 1 stepper motor
Control Type:
Bidirectional (forward / reverse)
Speed control via PWM
🔗 Input Control Pins
IN1, IN2: Control Motor A direction
IN3, IN4: Control Motor B direction
ENA: Enable pin for Motor A (PWM speed control)
ENB: Enable pin for Motor B (PWM speed control)
🔋 Output Pins
OUT1, OUT2: Motor A output
OUT3, OUT4: Motor B output
🔌 Power Pins
12V (VCC): Motor power supply input
5V: Logic power (input or output depending on jumper)
GND: Ground
⚙️ Onboard Components
Voltage Regulator:
5V regulator (enabled via jumper)
Heatsink:
Aluminum heatsink for thermal dissipation
Flyback Diodes:
Protect against motor back EMF
Power LED Indicator
🔧 Jumper Settings
5V Enable Jumper:
ON → Uses onboard regulator (if motor supply ≤ 12V)
OFF → Requires external 5V supply
ENA / ENB Jumpers:
Installed → Motor always enabled
Removed → Use PWM for speed control
📊 Performance Characteristics
Control Logic: TTL compatible
Switching Type: Bipolar transistor-based H-bridge
Efficiency: Lower than modern MOSFET drivers (due to voltage drop ~2V)
Operating Temperature:
−25°C to +130°C (IC range)
📐 Physical Characteristics
Module Size: ~43 mm × 43 mm × 27 mm
Weight: ~25–30 g
Mounting: 4 screw holes
🔄 Working Principle
Uses H-bridge circuits to reverse motor polarity
Enables:
Forward rotation
Reverse rotation
Stop (brake or free run)
🧪 Typical Applications
Robotics (line follower, obstacle avoidance)
DIY RC cars
Conveyor systems
Stepper motor control
Automation projects
⚠️ Limitations
Voltage drop (~2V–4V) reduces motor efficiency
Generates heat under load
Not ideal for high-efficiency or battery-powered projects