The L293D is a quadruple high-current half-H driver designed to provide bidirectional drive currents of up to 600mA at voltages from 4.5V to 36V. It is specifically engineered to drive inductive loads such as relays, solenoids, DC motors, and bipolar stepping motors. The “D” version is particularly popular because it includes built-in clamp diodes to protect the chip from the back-electromotive force (EMF) generated by motors, eliminating the need for external protection. This IC allows a microcontroller to control the speed and direction of two DC motors independently, making it a cornerstone of hobbyist robotics.
L293D Pinout (DIP-16)
The L293D is a 16-pin IC. When looking from the top with the notch at the top, Pin 1 is on the top left.
| Pin | Terminal | Function |
| 1 | Enable 1,2 | Enables Motor 1 (Active High) |
| 2 | Input 1 | Control signal for Motor 1 |
| 3 | Output 1 | Connected to Motor 1 terminal |
| 4, 5 | GND | Ground and heat sink pins |
| 6 | Output 2 | Connected to Motor 1 terminal |
| 7 | Input 2 | Control signal for Motor 1 |
| 8 | VCC2 | Motor supply voltage (4.5V to 36V) |
| 9 | Enable 3,4 | Enables Motor 2 (Active High) |
| 10 | Input 3 | Control signal for Motor 2 |
| 11 | Output 3 | Connected to Motor 2 terminal |
| 12, 13 | GND | Ground and heat sink pins |
| 14 | Output 4 | Connected to Motor 2 terminal |
| 15 | Input 4 | Control signal for Motor 2 |
| 16 | VCC1 | Logic supply voltage (5V) |
Technical Specifications
- Supply Voltage (Logic): 4.5V to 7V
- Supply Voltage (Motor): Up to 36V
- Output Current: 600mA per channel
- Peak Output Current: 1.2A (non-repetitive)
- Internal Protection: Built-in ESD protection and thermal shutdown
- Clamping Diodes: Integrated for inductive load protection
- Operating Temperature: 0°C to 70°C
Key Features & Benefits
- Bidirectional Control: Can drive two DC motors forward and backward.
- Integrated Diodes: Simplifies circuit design by including kickback protection.
- Separated Power: Allows 5V logic to control much higher motor voltages safely.
- Ease of Use: Fits perfectly into standard breadboards and 16-pin DIP sockets.
Common Applications
- Robotic Rovers: Controlling the wheels of small to medium-sized robots.
- Stepper Motor Drivers: Driving 4-wire bipolar stepper motors.
- Solenoid Actuators: Managing push-pull solenoids in automated locks.
- Bidirectional DC Fans: Controlling cooling systems that require variable airflow.
L293D Equivalent & Substitutes
- SN754410 (Pin-compatible, higher current at 1A)
- L298N (Higher power dual H-bridge module)
- L293 (Standard version without internal diodes)
- TB6612FNG (Modern, higher efficiency MOSFET-based alternative)
Related Tutorials on ElxHub
- Basics: Learn more in Integrated Circuits – Basics and Working
- Selection Guide: Compare power options in our Ultimate IC Selection Guide
Conclusion
The L293D is the gold standard for introductory robotics. Its dual H-bridge design and integrated protection make it a robust and forgiving choice for beginners. While professional applications might use higher-efficiency MOSFET drivers, the L293D remains the most documented and widely available motor driver for the maker community.
Download the IC’s Datasheet pdf
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