What Is the L293D? H-Bridge with Built-in Diodes: Pinout and Uses
The L293D is a dual H-bridge motor driver with built-in flyback diodes (the trailing D denotes the diodes). It drives two DC motors or one stepper; 600 mA/channel (1.2 A peak), ~36 V. Thanks to its built-in diodes it needs no external diode for inductive loads; it is the classic 16-pin IC of small robot projects.
The L293D is a dual H-bridge motor driver with built-in protection diodes (the trailing "D" denotes the flyback diodes). It can drive two DC motors or one stepper; it is the classic 16-pin IC of small robot projects. For the concept, see what is a motor driver.
What is the L293D used for?
Direction/speed control of small DC motors, driving steppers and bidirectional load switching. Thanks to its built-in diodes it needs no external diode for inductive loads (handier than the L298N in this respect).
L293D pinout (DIP-16)
| Pin | Function | Pin | Function |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | EN1,2 (enable) | 16 | VCC1 (logic, +5V) |
| 2 | IN1 | 15 | IN4 |
| 3 | OUT1 | 14 | OUT4 |
| 4 | GND | 13 | GND |
| 5 | GND | 12 | GND |
| 6 | OUT2 | 11 | OUT3 |
| 7 | IN2 | 10 | IN3 |
| 8 | VCC2 (motor supply) | 9 | EN3,4 (enable) |
Highlights
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Structure | Dual H-bridge (with built-in diodes) |
| Current | 600 mA / channel (1.2 A peak) |
| Motor voltage | up to ~36 V |
Limitations
- Low current (600 mA); for large motors use the L298N or a MOSFET driver.
- Bipolar structure → voltage drop and heat (at high current).
Equivalents and alternatives
- L293: the version without diodes.
- L298N: higher current.
- TB6612FNG / DRV8833: efficient MOSFET dual drivers.
- SN754410: a higher-current L293D-compatible part.
Find it in our catalog
Use the L293D search.