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Allegro MicroSystems A3968SLBTR-T
- Part No.:
- A3968SLBTR-T
- Manufacturer:
- Allegro MicroSystems
- Category:
- Motor Drivers, Controllers
- Package:
- 16-PowerSOIC (0.295", 7.50mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
A3968SLBTR-T.pdf
- Description:
- IC MOTOR DRVR 4.75V-5.5V 16SOIC
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:1,226
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Product details
Overview
A3968SLBTR-T from Allegro MicroSystems is a discontinued dual full-bridge PWM motor driver IC designed for bidirectional control of two DC motors in industrial and embedded motion systems. It delivers ±650 mA continuous output current per bridge, supports up to 30 V load supply voltage, and integrates fixed-frequency PWM current regulation with user-selectable blanking via external RC network. It enables dynamic braking, features Satlington® sink drivers for low saturation voltage, and operates across –20 °C to +85 °C ambient.
For engineers reviewing the A3968SLBTR-T datasheet, A3968SLBTR-T pinout, A3968SLBTR-T application, or A3968SLBTR-T equivalent, this page provides verified technical context, validated pin functions, confirmed thermal and electrical specifications, and documented alternative options for legacy design support and obsolescence mitigation.
Technical Context
The A3968SLBTR-T implements two independent full-bridge outputs with internal PWM current control operating at ~25.4 kHz (with 56 kΩ/680 pF RC network), where trip current is set by VREF/(4 × RS) + ISO (ISO = 18 mA typical). Each bridge uses separate source-enable latches reset by current-sense comparator output, with blanking timed by CT (tblank = 1900 × CT µs).
It incorporates crossover-current protection (1.8 µs dead time), UVLO (4.1–4.6 V enable threshold), thermal shutdown (165 °C, 15 °C hysteresis), and integrated ground-clamp/flyback diodes. Satlington® sink drivers deliver ≤0.7 V saturation at +650 mA, while source drivers exhibit ≤2.1 V at –650 mA - enabling efficient recirculation paths without external diodes.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Output Current | ±650 mA continuous per bridge; peak ±750 mA limited by thermal design and duty cycle |
| Supply Voltage | VBB up to 30 V; VCC logic supply 4.75–5.5 V - supports standard 5 V microcontroller interfacing |
| PWM Frequency | 22.9–27.9 kHz (typ. 25.4 kHz with 56 kΩ/680 pF); determines current ripple magnitude and switching loss trade-off |
| Saturation Voltage | Sink: ≤0.7 V at +650 mA; Source: ≤2.1 V at –650 mA - directly impacts power dissipation and thermal margin |
| Current Sense Accuracy | ITRIP = VREF/(4 × RS) + 18 mA; offset error reduces effective resolution below 50 mA |
| Thermal Protection | Shuts down at TJ = 165 °C (typ.), resumes after ΔTJ = 15 °C cooldown - prevents permanent junction damage |
| Braking Mode | Both sink drivers ON, both source drivers OFF when INPUTA = INPUTB = L - provides dynamic motor deceleration |
Pinout & Package
Package: 16-pin SOICW (suffix LB), lead (Pb)-free, matte tin-plated leadframe; pins 4 and 13 internally fused to die pad (ground potential, no isolation required).
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| VBB | Load supply input | High-current path for motor power; requires local 47 µF electrolytic decoupling |
| VCC | Logic supply input | 5 V digital supply; powers internal logic, reference, and gate drivers |
| INPUT1A / INPUT1B INPUT2A / INPUT2B | Bridge direction control inputs | TTL-compatible logic inputs; define forward/reverse/brake/disable per bridge per truth table |
| OUT1A / OUT1B OUT2A / OUT2B | Full-bridge output terminals | Drive motor windings; each pair forms H-bridge with internal Satlington® sink/source drivers |
| VREF | Reference voltage input | 0.1–2.0 V input setting current trip threshold; internally divided by 4 for comparator |
| RC | RC timing network connection | Connects external RT and CT to set oscillator frequency and blanking window duration |
| SENSE | Current sense input | Accepts voltage drop across external sense resistor (RS); referenced to ground |
| GND | Power and signal ground | Common return for VBB, VCC, SENSE, and logic; must be low-impedance PCB plane |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Dual independent full-bridges | Enables simultaneous bidirectional control of two DC motors without shared timing or current-sense constraints |
| Satlington® sink drivers | Combines Darlington-level peak current capability with saturated transistor-level VCE(SAT), reducing heat generation at high load currents |
| User-selectable blanking window | Prevents false PWM latch resets during switching transients via CT-based timing (e.g., 1.3 µs with 680 pF) |
| Integrated protection circuitry | Includes UVLO, thermal shutdown with hysteresis, crossover-current prevention, and internal clamp/flyback diodes - eliminates need for discrete protection components |
| Brake mode with sink-only conduction | Shorts motor terminals through low-VCE(SAT) sinks to dissipate kinetic energy rapidly without external MOSFETs or relays |
Applications
| Industrial Actuators | Medical Pump Systems |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Precise bidirectional positioning of linear actuators in automated valve control and robotic joints. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Dual full-bridge driver providing independent PWM-controlled current to two DC motors for synchronized motion and holding torque. Use Value: ±650 mA drive capability and integrated current regulation enable closed-loop position control without external current sensing amplifiers or discrete H-bridge transistors. |
Use Scenario: Low-noise, reliable fluid delivery in infusion pumps requiring reversible peristaltic or syringe motor control. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Motor driver with brake mode and thermal protection ensuring safe stall recovery and fault-safe shutdown during occlusion events. Use Value: Satlington® sink drivers minimize power loss during dynamic braking, extending battery life and reducing thermal stress in compact medical enclosures. |
| Automated Test Equipment | Lab Instrument Positioning |
Use Scenario: High-reliability motor control in semiconductor handler stages and probe station XYZ platforms. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Dual-channel PWM driver supporting fast direction reversal and precise current-limited acceleration/deceleration profiles. Use Value: 25.4 kHz PWM frequency balances low audible noise with minimal current ripple, critical for vibration-sensitive wafer alignment tasks. |
Use Scenario: Compact optical stage movement in spectrometers and microscope focus mechanisms. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Integrated full-bridge driver with internal flyback diodes and ground clamps simplifying PCB layout in space-constrained modules. Use Value: Eliminates four external Schottky diodes per bridge and reduces BOM count, improving long-term reliability and easing compliance with IPC Class 3 assembly standards. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar dual full-bridge motor driver applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| TB6612FNG | Higher continuous current (1.2 A per channel), lower RDS(on), but no integrated current-sense comparator or blanking; requires external current feedback loop. | Preferred for higher-power DC motors (>650 mA) where external sensing is acceptable; lacks built-in brake-mode current limiting. | Select TB6612FNG when thermal headroom and peak current demand exceed A3968SLBTR-T limits, and system-level current monitoring is already implemented. |
| DRV8833 | Lower voltage rating (10.8 V max), no internal current regulation, smaller 16-pin TSSOP package; includes sleep mode and fault reporting. | Suitable for low-voltage battery-powered devices (e.g., portable instruments); not viable for 24 V industrial loads or precision current-controlled operation. | Choose DRV8833 only for new designs operating ≤10.8 V with emphasis on ultra-low quiescent current and integrated diagnostics - not for direct A3968SLBTR-T replacement. |
Compared with TB6612FNG and DRV8833, the A3968SLBTR-T uniquely combines integrated PWM current control, Satlington® output architecture, and user-configurable blanking - making it irreplaceable in legacy designs requiring stable, self-regulated motor current without external analog front-end components.
Availability
A3968SLBTR-T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial actuator control, medical pump systems, and automated test equipment requiring stable component supply despite end-of-life status.
Supply support for A3968SLBTR-T includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.
Manufacturer
Allegro MicroSystems is a U.S.-based designer and manufacturer of high-performance magnetic sensing and power IC solutions, founded in 1989 and headquartered in Manchester, NH.
The A3968 product line was developed specifically for cost-sensitive, thermally constrained DC motor control applications requiring integrated current regulation and robust protection - targeting industrial automation, medical devices, and instrumentation markets.
FAQ
Is the A3968SLBTR-T still in production?
No, the A3968SLBTR-T is a discontinued product. Allegro MicroSystems ceased production as of September 9, 2022. It should not be purchased for new design applications, and samples are no longer available. Aetrix Electronics maintains limited legacy stock for ongoing production support and repair programs.
What does "SLBTR-T" indicate in the A3968SLBTR-T part number?
The suffix "SLBTR-T" specifies the packaging and temperature grade: "S" denotes tape-and-reel packaging, "LB" identifies the 16-pin SOICW package with pins 4 and 13 fused to the die pad, "T" indicates commercial temperature range (–20 °C to +85 °C), and "R" confirms RoHS-compliant lead-free construction.
Can the A3968SLBTR-T drive stepper motors?
No, the A3968SLBTR-T is not designed for stepper motor control. It lacks phase sequencing logic, microstepping capability, or current chopping modes required for bipolar stepper operation. Its dual full-bridge topology supports only two independent DC motors or solenoids with unidirectional/bidirectional current control.
What is the purpose of the RC pin on the A3968SLBTR-T?
The RC pin on the A3968SLBTR-T connects to an external resistor (RT) and capacitor (CT) that jointly set the internal oscillator frequency and blanking window duration. With 56 kΩ and 680 pF, it yields ~25.4 kHz PWM and ~1.3 µs blanking - critical for stable current regulation and noise immunity during switching transitions.
Does the A3968SLBTR-T require external flyback diodes?
No, the A3968SLBTR-T includes internal ground-clamp and flyback diodes for each output terminal. These eliminate the need for external diodes in standard H-bridge configurations, reducing PCB area and component count - provided layout adheres to recommended grounding and decoupling practices.
A3968SLBTR-T Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Allegro MicroSystems
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 16-PowerSOIC (0.295", 7.50mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Motor Type - Stepper:
- -
- Motor Type - AC, DC:
- Brushed DC
- Function:
- Driver - Fully Integrated, Control and Power Stage
- Output Configuration:
- Half Bridge (4)
- Interface:
- Parallel
- Technology:
- Bipolar
- Step Resolution:
- -
- Applications:
- General Purpose
- Current - Output:
- 650mA
- Voltage - Supply:
- 4.75V ~ 5.5V
- Voltage - Load:
- 4.75V ~ 30V
- Operating Temperature:
- -20°C ~ 150°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 16-SOIC
A3968SLBTR-T FAQ
1.How can I place an order for A3968SLBTR-T through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for A3968SLBTR-T on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for A3968SLBTR-T reliable?
The price and inventory of A3968SLBTR-T are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for A3968SLBTR-T is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for A3968SLBTR-T?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for A3968SLBTR-T transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for A3968SLBTR-T?
A3968SLBTR-T orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your A3968SLBTR-T order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for A3968SLBTR-T?
For technical support, including A3968SLBTR-T datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your A3968SLBTR-T requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that A3968SLBTR-T is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All A3968SLBTR-T products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that A3968SLBTR-T meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of A3968SLBTR-T?
All A3968SLBTR-T units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with A3968SLBTR-T, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The A3968SLBTR-T part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for A3968SLBTR-T:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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