The L298N motor driver is used for controlling DC. It regulates motor direction and speed using input and PWM signals. However, the L298 has drawbacks like other components. Let’s see how to use it with an Arduino, the challenges it presents in this process, and how to eradicate those.
How can we use it?
The L298N when connects to Arduino, it can be used to control motors through a set of input and enable pins. You provide power to the motor and logic sections, then control the motor’s direction and speed by sending signals to the input and enable pins.
The problem with it and How to Overcome Some of Them
1. Power Dissipation
The L298 use BJTs instead of MOSFETs. BJTs are not as power efficient as MOSFETs. As a result, they dissipate a lot of heat when driving higher-power motors.
Solution: Use a fan to better dissipate the heat produced, or use a MOSFET based motor driver like TB6612FNG
2. Current Limitation
It can only handle a maximum of 2A per motor, which is not enough for certain motors.
Solution: Switch to motor driver with MOSFETs or a driver like L293D.
3. Low Efficiency
The L298N is not the most efficient option, especially as the load increases.
Solution: For better efficiency, consider drivers like the L298N, which offer improved performance, or switch to a MOSFET-based driver for lower power loss.
4. Very Bulky
Conclusion
L298N is a good motor driver for simple projects, which use low power motors. But due to its limitations that can not be overcome. So we can use another motor driver. I use TB6612FNG.
