Project Overview – What is this project about?

This project is a high-current DC motor driver based on the VNH7040AYTR H-Bridge IC, designed for reliable and efficient control of brushed DC motors.

It is intended for applications such as robotics, mobile robots (rovers), automation systems, and motion control platforms where high current, protection, and stability are required.

The design focuses on robust power handling, MCU compatibility, and built-in safety features, making it suitable for both educational and real-world engineering projects.

🎯 Why did I decide to make this project?

I decided to design this motor driver because:

Many low-cost motor drivers fail under high current or harsh conditions

External discrete H-Bridge designs using MOSFETs require complex protection circuits

I wanted a compact, reliable, and protected solution suitable for robotics competitions and real products

The VNH7040AYTR offers an excellent balance between:

High current capability

Integrated protections

Simple MCU interface

Reduced PCB complexity

This makes it ideal for students, hobbyists, and engineers who need industrial-level reliability without overcomplicating the design.

⚙️ How does it work?

Power Stage

The motor supply is connected through reverse polarity protection

Bulk and ceramic capacitors provide power filtering and suppress voltage spikes

The VNH7040AYTR internally drives the motor using a full H-Bridge architecture

Control Interface

The driver receives signals from a microcontroller (MCU):

PWM input → controls motor speed

Direction inputs → control motor rotation (forward / reverse)

Logic-level compatibility allows direct connection to common MCUs (Arduino, STM32, etc.)

Protection & Safety

The IC includes built-in:

Overcurrent protection

Thermal shutdown

Undervoltage and overvoltage protection

These features protect both the motor and the control electronics, especially during stall or overload conditions.

Visual Feedback

LED indicators show:

Power status

MCU control signals

Motor activity

This helps with debugging, testing, and real-time monitoring.

- Applications

Robotics and rovers

Line-following and autonomous vehicles

Automation systems

Motion control projects

Educational and competition projects