IC Motor H-Bridge Driver 2Ch 0.6A 25V L293D

The L293D is a widely used motor driver IC that can control motors and other inductive loads, providing bidirectional control over DC motors, stepper motors, and servo motors. It has multiple features and is versatile for use in robotics, automation, and other motor control applications. 

Key Features:

• H-Bridge Circuit: The L293D contains two half H-bridge circuits, allowing for bidirectional control of motors.

• Motor Compatibility: It can drive unipolar and bipolar stepper motors, DC motors, and servo motors.

• PWM Control: Capable of outputting a PWM signal for controlling motor speed.

• Independent Channels: Each of the two channels can be used independently to drive solenoids or relays.

• Current Handling: Can handle a maximum voltage of 36V and a maximum current of 0.6A per channel (1.2A peak).

• Thermal Shutdown: Built-in thermal shutdown protection.

• Low Saturation Voltage: This ensures efficient operation with minimal power loss.

• Package: Standard DIP-16 package for easy integration into circuits.

Description:

The L293D is an integrated circuit (IC) motor driver that provides the capability to control two motors simultaneously, in forward or reverse directions. It is designed using H-Bridge technology, which allows for controlling the direction and speed of DC motors. The IC has built-in diodes to protect the circuit from the back EMF generated when the motor is turned off. This feature makes it well-suited for motor control in robotics, automation, and educational projects.

Pinout:

Here’s the pinout for the L293D IC:

Applications:

• Robotics: Commonly used to control motors in robotic systems.

• Automation: Suitable for automation tasks like conveyor belts or assembly line systems.

• Motor Control Systems: Can control motor speed, torque, and direction, making it ideal for applications that require precise motor control.

• Automotive: Used in automotive applications such as controlling window motors or windshield wipers.

• Home Automation: Can be used for controlling the movement of devices like blinds, curtains, or other home automation components.

• Educational Projects: A great tool for teaching motor control concepts in educational robotics projects.

Code Example:

This simple Arduino code demonstrates how to control motor direction and speed using the L293D:

cpp
CopyEdit
#define IN1 7
#define IN2 8
#define EN 9

void setup() {
  pinMode(IN1, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(IN2, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(EN, OUTPUT);
}

void setspeed(int val) {
  analogWrite(EN, val);
}

void setdir(bool dir) {
  digitalWrite(IN1, dir);
  digitalWrite(IN2, !dir);
}

void loop() {
  setdir(HIGH);
  for(int i = 0; i < 256; i++) {
    setspeed(i);
    delay(15);
  }
  for(int i = 255; i >= 0; i--) {
    setspeed(i);
    delay(15);
  }

  setdir(LOW);
  for(int i = 0; i < 256; i++) {
    setspeed(i);
    delay(15);
  }
  for(int i = 255; i >= 0; i--) {
    setspeed(i);
    delay(15);
  }
}

Comparisons with L298:

The L293D and L298 ICs are both commonly used motor drivers, but there are some key differences:

• Current Handling: L293D can handle up to 600mA per channel, while L298 can handle up to 4A per channel. Therefore, the L298 is better suited for higher current applications.

• Voltage Range: L293D supports up to 36V, while L298 supports up to 48V, making L298 better for high-voltage applications.

• Heat Dissipation: L298 generally requires additional cooling due to its higher power dissipation.

• Number of Channels: Both ICs support two channels, but the L298 has the capability of being used in parallel mode for higher current output.

Conclusion:

The L293D is an excellent choice for small to medium motor control applications, offering bidirectional control, PWM speed control, and ease of use for hobbyists, robotics, and educational projects. For higher current or voltage requirements, the L298 would be a better alternative.