





DRV8825 Stepper Motor Driver Module
The DRV8825 Stepper Motor Driver Module is a reliable, high-performance driver built around the Texas Instruments DRV8825 IC. It delivers precise control for bipolar stepper motors, featuring adjustable current limiting, microstepping resolution up to 1/32 step, and robust protection features including overcurrent, overtemperature, and undervoltage lockout.
Designed for flexibility, the module works with both 3.3V and 5V logic levels, making it widely compatible with microcontrollers. It also serves as a drop-in replacement for the A4988 driver in most applications, while offering higher current capacity and finer microstepping control for smoother motion and better performance.
Key Features
- Simple step and direction control interface
- Microstepping support: Full, 1/2, 1/4, 1/8, 1/16, and 1/32 step
- Adjustable current control via onboard potentiometer
- Operates directly with both 3.3V and 5V logic
- Intelligent chopping control for optimal current decay mode
- Over-temperature, over-current, and short-circuit protection
- Built-in low-dropout voltage regulator for logic supply
- Exposed PCB pad for improved heat dissipation
- Pinout and size compatible with A4988 driver modules
- Manufactured using the SMT process for high reliability and performance
Technical Specifications
Parameter | Specification |
---|---|
Supply Voltage (Recommended) | 8.2V to 42V DC (Tested up to 32V) |
Logic Voltage | 2.5V to 5V |
Max Current (with Cooling) | 2.2A per coil |
Max Current (No Heatsink) | 1.5A per coil |
Microstep Resolutions | Full, 1/2, 1/4, 1/8, 1/16, 1/32 |
PCB Layers | 4-layer, 2 oz copper for better heat dissipation |
Built-in Protections | Overcurrent, Overtemperature, UVLO, Short Circuit |
Module Dimensions | 15.5mm × 20.4mm (Same as A4988) |
Manufacturing Process | SMT (Surface Mount Technology), Non-manual |
Interface Compatibility | Directly works with A4988 footprints |
Applications
- 3D Printers (Prusa Mendel, Ultimaker, Printbot, MakerBot, etc.)
- CNC Machines
- Laser Engravers
- Robotic Arms
- Automated Positioning Systems
- DIY Electronics Projects
Package Contents
- 1 x DRV8825 Stepper Motor Driver Module
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the maximum current the DRV8825 can handle?
The module can deliver up to 2.2A per coil with proper cooling (heatsink and airflow). Without extra cooling, it’s recommended to keep the current below 1.5A to avoid overheating.
Is the DRV8825 compatible with A4988 driver modules?
Yes. It is pin-compatible with A4988 and can serve as a drop-in replacement in most cases. The DRV8825 also offers higher current handling and supports finer microstepping (up to 1/32-step).
What microstepping resolutions does it support?
The DRV8825 supports six microstepping modes: full step, 1/2, 1/4, 1/8, 1/16, and 1/32. This enables smoother and more precise control of stepper motors, particularly in 3D printing and CNC applications.
How do I set the current limit?
The current is adjusted using the onboard potentiometer. You can measure the reference voltage (Vref) with a multimeter and use the formula:
Current Limit (A) ≈ Vref × 2
(This assumes a 0.1Ω sense resistor, which is standard on most boards.)
What protections are built into the module?
The DRV8825 includes built-in protection features such as overcurrent protection, overtemperature shutdown, undervoltage lockout (UVLO), and short-to-ground or load short-circuit protection