The L298N stepper motor driver is a versatile dual H-Bridge motor driver module commonly used to control both DC motors and stepper motors like the popular NEMA 17. It allows control over speed and direction with two output channels that can drive two DC motors independently or one stepper motor. The module typically includes a built-in 5V regulator and a heat sink for efficient power management.

Features and Specifications

• Built around the L298 dual full-bridge driver IC.

• Operating voltage range typically 5V to 35V.

• Output current up to 2A per channel (peak up to 3A).

• Can drive 2 DC motors or 1 stepper motor.

• Built-in heat sink for stable operation.

• Compatible with microcontrollers like Arduino.

• Control pins include IN1, IN2, IN3, IN4 for motor phase control, plus enable pins.

• Commonly used with Arduino libraries like Stepper.h or AccelStepper for easy control.

Usage with Stepper Motors

• Connect the stepper motor wires to the output terminals.

• Control motor speed and direction by sending signals to input pins.

• Can be programmed with Arduino IDE using Stepper.h library, allowing precise control of rotations.

• For example, a common setup makes the motor complete one revolution forward then backward with delays between.

Applications

• Robotics projects

• Automated machinery control

• DIY CNC machines

• Motor speed and direction control experiments

This driver is a cost-effective and user-friendly solution for driving small to medium stepper motors and DC motors in a variety of embedded projects and robotics applications.