IRF520 MOSFET Driver Module for Arduino ARM Raspberry pi

IRF520 MOSFET Driver Module is an essential power interface designed to bridge the gap between low-voltage microcontrollers and high-current loads. This compact module employs the popular IRF520 N-channel MOSFET, consequently allowing small control signals (3.3V to 5V) from devices like Arduino or Raspberry Pi to switch high-power DC circuits efficiently. The module simplifies high-side and low-side switching applications by integrating necessary components, furthermore reducing circuit complexity and saving valuable PCB space. Therefore, engineers and hobbyists rely on the IRF520 module to drive high-power components such as DC motors, LED strips, solenoid valves, and heating elements.

Key Features:

• High Current Switching: This module utilizes the IRF520 MOSFET, enabling it to handle continuous DC load currents up to 9.7 A (with appropriate cooling).
• Low Voltage Logic Compatibility: The module drives the MOSFET effectively with control signals from 3.3V to 5V microcontrollers, ensuring wide system compatibility.
• Integrated Indicator LED: An onboard LED visually indicates the module’s operating status, making testing and troubleshooting simpler.
• Screw Terminal Connections: High-quality screw terminals facilitate secure and reliable connections for high-current load wiring.
• Robust Switching Speed: The N-channel MOSFET provides fast switching times, making it suitable for Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) control applications like motor speed regulation.

Technical Specifications:

• MOSFET Used: IRF520 (N-Channel Power MOSFET)
• Maximum Drain-Source Voltage (V_DS): 100 V
• Continuous Drain Current (I_D): 9.7 A (at 25°C, with heatsink)
• Input Control Voltage (V_GS): 3.3 V to 5 V (Logic Level)
• Gate-Source Voltage (V_GS max): ±20 V
• On-Resistance (R_DS(on)): Typically 0.27 Ω (at V_GS = 10V)
• Operating Temperature Range: −55°C to +175°C (MOSFET Junction)

Mechanical Specifications:

• Module Material: PCB with Screw Terminals and Pin Headers
• Mounting: Fixed hole diameter ≈ 3 mm (for easy mounting in enclosures).
• MOSFET Package: TO-220 (Mounted on PCB)
• Weight: ≈ 10 g

Dimensions:

• Module Length: ≈ 33.0 mm
• Module Width: ≈ 25.0 mm
• Module Height: ≈ 15.0 mm (including components and terminals)
• Color: Typically Red/Black PCB

Pinout and Wiring:

• Pin 1 (GND): Connect the ground of the control circuit (e.g., Arduino GND).
• Pin 2 (VCC): Connect the 5V power supply to power the logic side of the module (optional, often tied to V_DD or 5V).
• Pin 3 (SIG): Connect the PWM or digital signal output pin from your microcontroller. This pin drives the MOSFET Gate.
• Pin 4 (V+): Connect the positive voltage line for the load (V_LOAD, up to 100V DC).
• Pin 5 (GND): Connect the ground of the load circuit (common ground).
• Pin 6 (OUT): Connect to the positive terminal of the DC load. The load is typically connected between V+ and OUT, with the module switching the negative side (Low-Side Switching).

Datasheet Reference:

• Download IRF520 MOSFET Datasheet

Commonly Used in:

• Arduino and Microcontroller Projects: Serving as the essential interface for high-power peripherals.
• 3D Printers and CNC Machines: Used for controlling heating elements and high-current stepper motors.
• Robotics: Driving DC motors, grippers, and high-intensity lighting systems.

Applications:

• DC Motor Speed Control: Utilizing PWM signals from a microcontroller to smoothly regulate motor RPM.
• LED Strip Dimming: Providing high-frequency PWM switching for dimming high-power 12V or 24V LED lighting.
• Heating Element Control: Switching on/off or controlling the duty cycle of resistive heating loads in temperature control systems.
• Solenoid and Valve Actuation: Controlling electromagnetic locks and fluid valves requiring substantial current.

Equivalent Models:

• IRF540N Module: However, this is a higher-current, slightly higher-voltage alternative for more demanding loads.
• IRLZ44N Module: A popular logic-level alternative often used in similar low-side switching applications.
• Other Standard MOSFET Driver Modules: Modules featuring the BUK9507 or similar N-channel FETs can function as direct, although not pin-compatible, replacements.

Package Includes:

• 1 x IRF520 MOSFET Driver Module for Arduino ARM Raspberry pi