Cytron MDD3A Dual Channel DC Motor Driver for Robotics Projects
Cytron MDD3A Dual Channel DC Motor Driver (6-30V, 3A/5A)
The Cytron MDD3A is a dual channel DC motor driver that can independently control two brushed DC motors at 3A continuous per channel with 6V to 30V power input, ideal for robotics and automation projects.
Key Specifications
| Motor Channels | 2 (Dual) |
| Operating Voltage | 6V ā 30V DC |
| Continuous Current per Channel | 3A |
| Peak Current per Channel | 5A |
| Logic Level | 3.3V / 5V Compatible |
| Control Mode | PWM & Direction |
| Protection | Overcurrent & Thermal Shutdown |
| Dimensions (LĆWĆH) | 45mm Ć 30mm Ć 15mm (approx.) |
What You Can Build With This
- Line-Following Robot: Use an IR sensor array and the MDD3A to drive two DC motors, creating a simple autonomous bot.
- Wi-Fi Controlled Car: Pair the MDD3A with an ESP32 and a motor chassis, then control speed and direction via a web app.
- Pi Automated Rover: Program a Raspberry Pi to control the MDD3A over GPIO, building a surveillance rover with a camera module.
- DC Motor Speed Control Experiment: Use an Arduino and potentiometer to vary MDD3A PWM duty cycle, demonstrating motor speed regulation for CBSE/ATL lab.
- Smart Agriculture Robot: Build a seed-sowing machine using the MDD3A to drive wheel motors, controlled by Arduino for precise field navigation (SIH/B.Tech project).
Compatibility
| Platform | Compatible | Connection | Library / Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arduino Uno R3 | Yes | PWM pins (e.g., D5, D6 for PWM; any digital for DIR) | Direct pin control (analogWrite / digitalWrite) |
| Arduino Nano | Yes | PWM pins (e.g., D3, D9) | Direct pin control |
| Arduino Mega 2560 | Yes | PWM pins (e.g., D2āD13) | Direct pin control |
| ESP8266 NodeMCU | Yes | GPIO with PWM (e.g., D1, D2) | Direct pin control (analogWrite) |
| ESP32 Dev Board | Yes | Any GPIO with LEDC PWM | LEDC library or direct |
| Raspberry Pi Pico | Yes | GP0āGP28 (use PWM slices) | machine.PWM |
| Raspberry Pi 4 / 5 | Yes | GPIO (3.3V tolerant) | RPi.GPIO or pigpio |
Wiring and Interface Notes
Connect the motor power supply (6-30V) to the VMS and GND terminals. The logic pins (DIR1, PWM1, DIR2, PWM2) accept 3.3V or 5V signals; for Raspberry Pi, direct GPIO connection is safe. Always use a common ground between the microcontroller and MDD3A to avoid signal issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive a stepper motor with the MDD3A?
Yes, the MDD3A can drive a bipolar stepper motor by using both channels, one for each coil. You'll need to control the coil sequencing via your microcontroller.
What is the maximum power supply I should use?
The MDD3A supports up to 30V input, but for continuous high-current use, ensure your power supply can deliver sufficient current and the board is properly cooled, as the peak current is 5A.
Ask Soldr above what you can build with this ā it knows every Compoden kit this part appears in.
Shipping Information
- Prepaid Orders: ā¹75 for orders up to ā¹999, FREE shipping above ā¹999
- COD Orders: ā¹125 shipping + ā¹50 COD fee = ā¹175 total
- Delivery Timeline: Dispatch in 1-2 days, delivery in 2-7 days depending on location
Returns & Warranty
- 7-Day Return: Manufacturing defects only (approval required)
- Warranty: 7 days from delivery
- Non-Returnable: Batteries, consumables, cut wires, clearance items