What Is the L298N? Dual H-Bridge Motor Driver: Specs and Uses
The L298N is a dual H-bridge motor driver that drives two DC motors or one stepper independently in direction and speed. Up to ~2 A/channel and ~46 V; IN1–IN4 set direction, ENA/ENB (PWM) set speed. Its old bipolar structure drops ~2–3 V → it heats up and needs a heatsink; for efficiency MOSFET-based drivers are preferred.
The L298N is a dual H-bridge motor driver that can drive two DC motors (or one stepper) independently in direction and speed. With its high current capability and ready modules it is a classic part in robotics projects. For the concept, see what is a motor driver.
What is the L298N used for?
DC motor direction/speed control (with PWM), driving steppers and general high-current load switching. Inputs IN1–IN4 set direction, ENA/ENB (PWM) set speed. It is driven at logic level from a microcontroller.
Highlights
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Structure | Dual H-bridge |
| Motor current | ~2 A / channel |
| Motor voltage | up to ~46 V |
| Control | IN1–IN4 (direction), ENA/ENB (PWM speed) |
Watch out: voltage drop and heat
The L298N is an old bipolar chip; its internal transistors drop ~2–3 V. At low motor voltage this means significant loss and heat → a heatsink is a must and efficiency suffers with motors under 6 V. If efficiency matters, MOSFET-based drivers (e.g. the TB6612FNG, DRV8871) are preferred. Flyback diodes for the inductive motor are usually present on modules.
Limitations
- High voltage drop → low efficiency, heat.
- Weak performance with low-voltage (3–6 V) motors.
- No microstepping for steppers (simple full/half step).
Equivalents and alternatives
- L293D: lower current (600 mA) but with built-in diodes.
- TB6612FNG: a MOSFET-based, efficient dual driver.
- DRV8871 / MX1508: modern DC motor drivers.
Find it in our catalog
Use the L298N search.