A4988 Stepper Motor Driver with Heatsink

A4988 Stepper Motor Driver Module with Heatsink (8V-35V, 1/16 Microstepping)

The A4988 Stepper Motor Driver Module is a fundamental component in 3D printing and CNC machinery, providing a simple yet powerful interface between a microcontroller (like an Arduino) and a bipolar stepper motor (such as a NEMA 17). Based on the Allegro A4988 IC, this module handles all the logic required for motor control, including sequencing, current regulation, and stepping resolution.

Its key advantage is its ability to perform microstepping up to 1/16th of a step. Microstepping smooths the motor's operation, reducing vibration and noise while dramatically increasing the effective resolution of the positioning system. The driver features an adjustable current limit controlled by an onboard potentiometer, allowing users to safely match the output current to the motor's rated current (up to 1.5A RMS without external cooling) and an included Heatsink ensures the chip remains within safe operating temperatures when driving high current loads. This module requires only two pins from the host ($\text{STEP}$ and $\text{DIR}$) to fully control the motor's movement and direction.

🔧 Key Features  

• Driver IC: Allegro A4988 DMOS Microstepping Driver.
   
• Motor Voltage ($\text{VMOT}$): 8V to 35V DC.
   
• Logic Voltage ($\text{VDD}$): 3V to 5.5V DC (Compatible with Arduino/ESP).
   
• Step Modes: Full, 1/2, 1/4, 1/8, and 1/16 microstepping resolution.
   
• Max Current (Uncooled): ≤ 1A RMS (typically 1.5A peak with cooling).
 
• Protection: Over-Temperature Shutdown ($\text{OTS}$) and Undervoltage Lockout ($\text{UVLO}$).
 

💡 Applications

• 3D Printer X/Y/Z axis control (e.g., controlling NEMA 17 motors).
   
• CNC and laser engraving machine motion control.
 
• Automated positioning mechanisms and robotics.
 
• Stepper motor control in educational and DIY projects.
 

⚙️ Technical Specifications Summary

📦 Package Includes   

• 1 × A4988 Stepper Motor Driver Module
   
• 1 × Aluminum Adhesive Heatsink