Hi, could someone please tell me what is the difference between the L293 IC chip vs the module? It seems like I can just use the IC chip directly, is that right?
Module
You can, but the idea of a module is to make your life easier since you may end up adding some of the stuff on the module anyway. If nothing else it makes connection easier. Those caps are probably on the power connectors (?) and such caps are good practice so you would need those regardless.
But yes, in theory the L293 is a complete thing on its own.
Why are you considering buying such an ancient technology though?- there are a zillion newer chips around that are much more efficient. Check out Pololu, for example.
1 Like
What kind of motor do you wish to drive with the L293?
I agree with @octopirate in that you can do so much better than the ancient and inefficient L293 crappy motor driver. The L293 drops 2V to over 4V of the motor voltage and wastes that power as heat. Modern MOSFET output drivers are much more efficient. For battery powered projects that is very important.
Pololu has a good line of DC brushed motor drivers and a line of stepper drivers. I like Pololu because they offer quality products at good prices and they have good instructional pages for each of their products. I am not affiliated with Pololu, just a happy customer.
Thanks, Iām just planning to drive two TT motors for a differential wheeled robot, and happen to have a few of those L293 chips around. Will definitely check out the other up options from polulu.
This topic was automatically closed 180 days after the last reply. New replies are no longer allowed.