Hello, I am trying to use an ESP32 to control a DC motor using a DRV8871. I tried the sample program from Adafruit but nothing works. The serial monitor does not print “DRV8871 test” even I have “9600 baud” selected. The motor also does not turn. I suppose there might be a software compatibility iss…

I just tried it and the Auto Format does NOT insert unneeded vertical white space. Did you not notice that?

I hope he isn't powering the DRV8871 from the ESP32, but without the wireing diagram how would we know.

That’s a good question, one that I do not have an answer to. OP care to share that info?

@HazardsMind I think I see the problem. The OP is using very old data re the DRV8871. Check out the following link re the DRV8871. Code and wiring diagram. https://dronebotworkshop.com/dc-motor-drivers/#DRV8871_Single_H-Bridge

As far as I undersand, only need to supply power to the motor. “These two sets of pads are connected internally so you can use breadboard or terminal blocks to provide motor power. Use 6.5V-45VDC to power the motor and the chip. This isn't the same as the logic level of the chip, which is up to 5.5…

Tried the code and wiring of dronebotworkshop but still the motor does not turn. I checked the two motor ports’s voltage output. Most of the time in mV but sometimes changed to about 1.2V. Never goes higher than that. Isn’t this a bit too low?

[image] bbqq: This makes me wonder if the DRV8871 is DOA. That is definitely possible, i’ve had a few myself. That board has always been a hit or miss for me. I switched to a TA6586 . And for motors that require a lot of current, I use a BTS7960.

Thanks. I just made post#12. The outputs from the board does not seem to be good.

Which brands of TA6586 and BTS7960 controller boards do you recommend?

Whichever you can find. They should all be the same.

Nano ESP32 not working with DRV8871

Official Hardware Nano Family Nano ESP32

bbqq November 19, 2025, 5:02pm 24

Soldering on that kind of rigid breakout board is fine but haven’t done soldering on flexible brown circuit sheet, especially with SMD, for many years.

Any good small motor controller board compatible with the Nano ESP32?

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Nano ESP32 not working with DRV8871

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