IRF520 MOSFET Driver Module for Arduino PWM Control
An Arduino pin can only supply a few milliamps at 5V, which isn’t enough to power LED strips, motors or pumps directly. The IRF520 MOSFET Driver Module solves this. It uses an N-channel IRF520 MOSFET as an electronic switch, so a small signal from your Arduino controls a much bigger load from a separate power supply, up to 24V DC.
Unlike a relay, a MOSFET has no moving parts, makes no clicking sound and can switch thousands of times per second. That means you can use PWM to smoothly dim LED strips or change motor speed, which a relay can’t do.
With screw terminals for the power and load, header pins for the control signal and an indicator LED, this MOSFET module for Arduino is simple to wire. It’s a favourite for automation, lighting and robotics projects.
Key Features
- IRF520 N-channel MOSFET. Silent, fast electronic switching.
- Controls DC loads from 0–24V.
- PWM support. Dim LEDs and control motor speed smoothly.
- Simple digital control. One signal pin from your Arduino.
- Screw terminals. Secure connections for power and load.
- Header pins for easy jumper-wire connection to your microcontroller.
- Indicator LED. It shows when the output is active.
- Compact size. About 33 × 26mm.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| MOSFET | IRF520 (N-channel) |
| Load voltage | 0 – 24V DC |
| Load current | Up to 1A recommended without heatsink (5A max rating) |
| Control signal | Digital HIGH/LOW or PWM |
| Best control voltage | 5V (Arduino Uno, Nano, Mega) |
| Terminals | Screw terminals (power and load), header pins (signal) |
| Indicator | Output status LED |
| Dimensions | Approx. 33 × 26mm |
Pinout
Control side (header pins):
| Pin | Function |
|---|---|
| SIG | Control signal from Arduino (digital or PWM pin) |
| VCC | Logic VCC (not required on most boards) |
| GND | Ground. Connect to Arduino GND |
Power side (screw terminals):
| Terminal | Connection |
|---|---|
| VIN | External power supply + (up to 24V) |
| GND | External power supply − |
| V+ | Load positive (+) |
| V− | Load negative (−) |
Wiring with Arduino Uno
| Module | Connect To |
|---|---|
| SIG | Arduino D9 (PWM pin) |
| GND (header) | Arduino GND |
| VIN / GND (terminal) | 12V power supply + / − |
| V+ / V− (terminal) | LED strip, motor or pump |
Important Tips
- Best with 5V boards. The IRF520 isn’t a logic-level MOSFET, so it turns on most fully with a 5V signal (Arduino Uno, Nano, Mega). With 3.3V boards such as ESP32 or Raspberry Pi, it may only partly turn on and run warm.
- Keep loads to about 1A for cool, reliable operation. For heavier loads, fit a heatsink or choose a higher-current driver.
- For motors, solenoids and pumps, add a flyback diode (such as a 1N4007) across the load to protect the module from voltage spikes.
- DC loads only. Never connect AC mains to this module.
- Always connect the Arduino GND to the module GND.
Applications
- LED strip dimming and lighting effects
- Small DC motor speed control
- Solenoid valves and door locks
- Water pumps for plant watering systems
- DC fans and cooling control
- 3D printer heated beds and accessories (low-current)
- Home automation and STEM projects
Works Great With
- Arduino Uno R3
- 12V Power Supply
- 12V LED Strips
- Mini Water Pump
Package Includes
- 1 × IRF520 MOSFET Driver Module
















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