L298N Dual Full-Bridge Driver

The image you provided shows the L298N in its Multiwatt15 package. This is a high-voltage, high-current dual full-bridge driver designed to accept standard TTL logic levels and drive inductive loads such as DC motors, stepper motors, relays, and solenoids. The 15 pins are staggered to facilitate easy mounting on a PCB while allowing the large metal tab at the back to be bolted directly to a heat sink. This is necessary because the bipolar technology used in the L298N can generate significant heat when driving motors near its 2-Ampere-per-channel limit. It is a staple in robotics for controlling two DC motors independently or one bipolar stepper motor, providing both direction and speed control (via PWM).

Key Features:

Total DC current up to 4 Amperes (2 Amperes per bridge).

Low saturation voltage for high efficiency at rated currents.

Integrated over-temperature protection and thermal shutdown.

Logic level "0" up to 1.5 Volts for high noise immunity.

Standard Multiwatt15 (Vertical) package as shown in your image.