Earth Bondhon
Creators
Rojony Khatun Author
Rojony Khatun
CalculatorToolsProjectExpert
Reviewers
Małgorzata Koperska, MD Steven Wooding
Last updated: September 20, 2025

Bi-Directional DC Motor Control Circuit Using BC139 Transistor

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SPST Toggle Switch

SPST Toggle Switch

Single Pole Single Throw switch with ON/OFF control

[spst-toggle-switch]
12V DC Motor

12V DC Motor

A direct current motor that runs on 12 volts

BD140 Transistor

BD140 Transistor

PNP medium power transistor, collector current up to 1.5A, voltage up to 80V

BC139 Transistor

BC139 Transistor

An NPN silicon transistor designed for low to medium power amplification and switching.

1K Fixed Resistor 1/4W

1K Fixed Resistor 1/4W

A 1,000-ohm resistor rated for 0.25 watts

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DC Motor Speed Controller Circuit

Control DC motor rotation direction with BC139 transistors. Build a simple bi-directional motor driver circuit for DIY robotics and electronics projects.

BC139 DC motor control circuit

A DC motor drive circuit can be controlled with two-way movement of the motor with the help of a bi-directional circuit with BC139. BC139 transistors are used to safely switch the Motor current of both directions using an H-bridge configuration.

DC motor forward reverse circuit

This bi-directional dc motor control circuit which uses bi-directional DC motor control circuit with BC139 permits you to move a DC motor forward and reverse. BC139 is an NPN transistor capable of operating moderate-current and, thus, can be used in low-power DC motors in small robotics or automation applications.
The circuit incorporates usually two BC139 transistors in an H-bridge setup alongside diodes to avoid the destruction of transistors by the back EMF. The transistors are regulated by input signals, so that the motor is able to move clockwise or counterclockwise, depending on the pair of transistors which is turned off or on. Further resistors and switches are employed to safely cause current between the transistor bases and regulate flow.
The project offers a practical introduction to transistor switching, H-bridge setup, and motor control and is an ideal choice when a beginner in robotics and electronics wants effective experience in the field. It is cheap, straightforward and very educative.

Work / Installation (Inputs → Outputs)

  • Power Supply Input → Typically 6V–12V DC for the motor.
  • Control Input → Switches or logic signals to transistor bases.
  • BC139 Transistors → H-bridge configuration switches motor current direction.
  • Motor Output → Rotates clockwise or counterclockwise depending on active transistors.
  • Installation → Connect motor terminals, provide proper heat sinking for transistors if necessary.

Testing & Final Adjustments

Connect the power supply and the motor after connecting the H-bridge with BC139 transistors. Test the various control inputs to confirm the direction of rotation of the motor. Check polarity, transistors are protected against the back EMF by having the diodes installed. Regulate the base resistors so that the transistor does not overheat. Test on load conditions with direction switching to ensure there is reliability. When using larger currents, it is better to look at heat sinks or transistors in parallel. Make sure that all connections are firm to avoid short circuiting. When the connection is verified, fit the circuit on a PCB or breadboard. Frequenty testing and close calibration are considered to make the bi-directional motor operation uneventful and safe and efficient in the case of robotics.

Frequently Asked Questions - DC Motor Speed Controller Circuit:

What is BC139 used for in this circuit?

It acts as a switch in an H-bridge to control motor direction.

Can it rotate the motor both directions?

Yes, forward and reverse rotation is possible.

What voltage can it handle?

Typically 6V–12V DC for low-power motors.

Is it suitable for robotics projects?

Yes, ideal for small robot motor control.

How many transistors are needed?

Four transistors in an H-bridge, or two BC139 with additional PNP/NPN pairing.

Do I need diodes?

Yes, to protect transistors from back EMF.

Can it handle high-current motors?

Only low-current motors; for higher currents, use power transistors.

Is it easy to assemble?

Yes, simple H-bridge design suitable for beginners.

Can it be controlled by switches or logic?

Yes, either manual switches or microcontroller logic can control it.

Is heat sinking required?

Yes, for prolonged operation or higher currents, use heat sinks on BC139.

Rojony Khatun

Rojony Khatun

CalculatorToolsProject

Rojony Khatun is the creator of a free online tools website designed to simplify everyday and engineering-related calculations for students, professionals, and hobbyists. The platform offers a wide variety of basic and advanced calculators across key categories, including Electrical Calculators, Electronic Calculators, and Time & Date Calculators, helping users solve problems quickly and accurately.