Allegro MicroSystems A3980KLPTR
- Part No.:
- A3980KLPTR
- Manufacturer:
- Allegro MicroSystems
- Category:
- Motor Drivers, Controllers
- Package:
- 28-TSSOP (0.173", 4.40mm Width) Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
A3980KLPTR.pdf
- Description:
- IC MTR DRV BIPOLR 3-5.5V 28TSSOP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
A3980KLPTR from Allegro MicroSystems is an automotive-grade DMOS bipolar stepper motor driver IC with integrated translator, designed for full-, half-, eighth-, and sixteenth-step operation at up to ±1 A output current and 35 V supply voltage. It features fixed off-time PWM current regulation, mixed/fast/slow decay mode selection, synchronous rectification, and dual fault flag diagnostics. It is used in automotive HVAC actuators, throttle control, and precision industrial positioning systems.
For engineers reviewing the A3980KLPTR datasheet, A3980KLPTR pinout, A3980KLPTR application, or A3980KLPTR equivalent, this page delivers verified technical context, validated pin functions, confirmed microstepping resolution modes (1/16-step), real thermal shutdown behavior (170°C typical), and documented diagnostic flag encoding per Table 2 - all specific to the A3980KLPTR variant in 28-pin TSSOP with exposed thermal pad.
Technical Context
The A3980KLPTR integrates a state-machine-based translator that sequences DAC outputs to drive two independent DMOS full-bridge outputs, enabling precise microstep current profiles without external sequencing logic. Its fixed off-time PWM control uses external RT/CT networks (e.g., 56 kΩ + 680 pF yields 38 μs tOFF) and blanking time (~950 ns) to manage current decay timing.
It implements automatic decay mode selection: slow decay when DAC output increases; mixed or fast decay (per PFD pin voltage: 0.21×VDD–0.6×VDD or <0.21×VDD) when DAC output decreases - reducing back-EMF distortion and audible noise. Fault detection samples VDS across high-side and low-side FETs after tBLANK + tSCT (700 ns) to identify shorts to supply/ground or open loads.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Output Current Rating | ±1 A continuous per phase - supports NEMA 17–23 stepper motors in automotive HVAC and seat positioners. |
| Supply Voltage Range | 8–35 V operating, 50 V absolute max - compatible with 12 V and 24 V automotive battery rails including load-dump transients. |
| Microstep Resolution | Full / Half / 1/8 / 1/16 step - selected via MS1/MS2 pins; Home position at 45° with ±70% ITRIPMAX ensures repeatable mechanical zero. |
| Thermal Shutdown | 170°C typical with 15°C hysteresis - protects against sustained overload or poor PCB thermal design without latch-up. |
| Logic Supply Range | 3.0–5.5 V - interfaces directly with 3.3 V or 5 V microcontrollers without level-shifting. |
| RDS(ON) (Source/Sink) | 0.51 Ω / 0.45 Ω typical at 25°C - reduces conduction loss and junction temperature rise under 1 A load. |
| Fault Flag Encoding | FF1/FF2 open-drain outputs encode UVLO/OVLO/overtemp/short-to-VBB/short-to-GND/open-load per Table 2 - enables single-wire fault classification with minimal GPIO. |
Pinout & Package
The A3980KLPTR is housed in a 28-pin TSSOP package (suffix LP) with 0.65 mm pitch and exposed thermal pad for enhanced heat dissipation. Package dimensions: 9.7 mm × 4.4 mm × 1.1 mm height.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| OUT1A, OUT1B, OUT2A, OUT2B | DMOS full-bridge outputs | Drive bipolar stepper motor windings; each pair forms one phase with source/sink capability and RDS(ON) ≤ 0.86 Ω. |
| SENSE1, SENSE2 | Current sense inputs | Monitor voltage drop across external RS1/RS2 resistors to regulate phase current; max 0.5 V rating must not be exceeded. |
| STEP, DIR, MS1, MS2 | Translator control inputs | STEP advances one microstep on rising edge; DIR sets rotation direction; MS1/MS2 select resolution (Table 1); all sampled synchronously on STEP edge. |
| PFD, SR, ENABLE, SLEEP | Functional control inputs | PFD selects decay mode; SR enables/disables synchronous rectification; ENABLE disables outputs; SLEEP cuts internal bias currents to reduce quiescent draw to <20 μA. |
| VREF, REF | Reference input | VREF sets maximum trip current via ITRIPMAX = VREF/(8 × RS); REF is internal DAC reference node - decoupling required. |
| VBB1, VBB2, PGND, AGND | Power terminals | VBB1/VBB2 accept separate motor supply inputs; PGND carries high-current return; AGND is analog ground - separation minimizes noise coupling. |
| FF1, FF2 | Fault flag outputs | Open-drain status indicators; active-low encoding per Table 2 allows unambiguous fault identification using two MCU GPIOs. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Integrated translator | Eliminates need for external step-sequence tables or microcontroller firmware overhead - single STEP pulse drives one microstep regardless of resolution mode. |
| Automatic decay mode selection | Switches between slow/mixed/fast decay based on DAC output trend, reducing current waveform distortion and improving positional accuracy at high step rates. |
| Synchronous rectification | Replaces body-diode conduction with low-RDS(ON) FET paths during decay, cutting power dissipation by >30% vs. asynchronous operation and removing need for external Schottky diodes. |
| Dual fault flag diagnostics | FF1/FF2 encode five distinct fault conditions (OVLO, UVLO, overtemp, short-to-VBB, short-to-GND, open-load) - simplifies system-level error handling with minimal interface lines. |
| Home microstep initialization | Resets to 45° mechanical zero (±70% ITRIPMAX) at power-up or wake-from-sleep - ensures repeatable starting position without homing routine. |
Applications
| Automotive HVAC Actuator | Electronic Throttle Control |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Precise air flap positioning in vehicle climate control systems requiring smooth, quiet, and repeatable motion across temperature zones. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: A3980KLPTR acts as the sole motor driver and motion sequencer - accepts STEP/DIR commands from HVAC MCU and directly controls 12 V bipolar stepper actuator. Use Value: 1/16-step resolution enables sub-degree angular control; mixed-decay mode suppresses audible coil whine; diagnostic flags report jammed flaps or broken linkages. |
Use Scenario: Closed-loop throttle plate positioning in gasoline engines, where safety-critical accuracy and fault visibility are mandatory. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: A3980KLPTR provides fail-safe motor drive with real-time fault reporting (FF1/FF2) to engine control unit - detects open windings or short circuits before torque loss occurs. Use Value: Thermal shutdown (170°C) prevents thermal runaway during stall; OVLO (34 V) withstands 24 V system load dumps; Home position ensures known start angle after reset. |
| Industrial Valve Positioner | Medical Infusion Pump Drive |
Use Scenario: Linear actuation of pneumatic or hydraulic valves in factory automation, requiring deterministic microstepping and robust overcurrent protection. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: A3980KLPTR serves as the interface between PLC pulse train output and 24 V stepper valve motor - translates STEP pulses into calibrated microsteps without software intervention. Use Value: ±1 A drive capability moves high-torque valves; RDS(ON) ≤ 0.65 Ω limits self-heating; short-circuit detection prevents damage during valve binding. |
Use Scenario: Accurate syringe plunger advancement in portable infusion pumps, where low acoustic noise and fault resilience are critical for patient comfort and safety. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: A3980KLPTR drives a 5 V bipolar stepper motor with 1/16-step granularity - STEP input synchronized to pump controller's dosing timer. Use Value: Synchronous rectification eliminates switching noise that could interfere with analog sensor signals; sleep mode (<20 μA) extends battery life between doses. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar stepper motor driver applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| A3981KLPTR | Successor with enhanced thermal performance (RθJA = 24°C/W), wider VBB range (40 V), and improved short-circuit immunity; pin-compatible but requires updated layout for thermal pad soldering. | Preferred for new designs targeting AEC-Q100 Grade 1 (−40°C to +125°C ambient) and higher reliability in engine bay environments. | Select A3981KLPTR when designing new automotive systems - it replaces A3980KLPTR with no functional compromise and better long-term availability. |
| TB6600HG | Higher current rating (±3.5 A), no integrated translator, requires external step/direction logic; lacks diagnostic flags and mixed-decay auto-selection. | Suitable for industrial CNC or 3D printer axes where external microcontroller handles sequencing and fault interpretation. | Choose TB6600HG only if external MCU resources are available for translation and diagnostics - A3980KLPTR offers lower BOM count and simpler firmware. |
Compared with A3981KLPTR, the A3980KLPTR has higher thermal resistance and narrower VBB margin but retains identical pinout, translator logic, and fault flag behavior - making it viable for legacy repair or cost-sensitive existing designs. Against TB6600HG, A3980KLPTR trades raw current headroom for integration, diagnostics, and ease of use in resource-constrained embedded systems.
Availability
A3980KLPTR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive HVAC actuators, electronic throttle control units, industrial valve positioners, and medical infusion pump drives requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle support.
Supply support for A3980KLPTR 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 semiconductor company specializing in high-performance magnetic sensing and power IC solutions for automotive and industrial markets.
The A3980 product line was developed specifically for automotive-grade stepper motor control with integrated translation, diagnostics, and robust fault tolerance - targeting applications where ECU resources are constrained and functional safety is essential.
FAQ
What is the recommended reference voltage range for A3980KLPTR?
The A3980KLPTR specifies a recommended VREF range of 0.8 V to 4.0 V. For full-step mode, VREF may extend up to VDD (5.5 V) because peak sense voltage is limited to 70% of VREF/8; in all other microstep modes, VREF must not exceed 4.0 V to prevent exceeding the 0.5 V SENSE pin absolute maximum rating. This constraint ensures reliable current regulation across all 1/2, 1/8, and 1/16-step resolutions.
How does the A3980KLPTR handle motor stall or overload conditions?
The A3980KLPTR responds to stall or overload via multiple protections: thermal shutdown activates at ~170°C junction temperature with 15°C hysteresis; overvoltage lockout (VOVB = 34 V) disables outputs during load dump; and short-circuit detection monitors VDS across high-side and low-side FETs after blanking delay. If a short persists, outputs cycle on/off per STEP edge to limit average power - preventing latch-up while signaling fault via FF1/FF2.
Is A3980KLPTR pin-compatible with A3981KLPTR?
Yes, A3980KLPTR and A3981KLPTR share identical 28-pin TSSOP (LP) packaging, pin assignment, and logic-level interface. However, A3981KLPTR improves thermal resistance (24°C/W vs. 28°C/W) and extends VBB rating to 40 V. Layout compatibility is maintained, but thermal pad soldering must follow A3981-specific guidelines for optimal performance.
What microstep resolution modes does A3980KLPTR support, and how are they selected?
The A3980KLPTR supports full-step, half-step, eighth-step, and sixteenth-step modes. Selection is controlled by the logic levels on MS1 and MS2 pins per Table 1: MS1=L/MS2=L → full-step; MS1=H/MS2=L → half-step; MS1=L/MS2=H → eighth-step; MS1=H/MS2=H → sixteenth-step. Changes take effect only on the next rising edge of the STEP input.
Does A3980KLPTR require external Schottky diodes for flyback protection?
No, the A3980KLPTR includes internal synchronous rectification circuitry that actively turns on low-RDS(ON) DMOS FETs during current decay, replacing body-diode conduction. This eliminates power loss and heat generation associated with external Schottky diodes while improving efficiency and reducing BOM count - confirmed in the Functional Description section and Features table.
A3980KLPTR Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Allegro MicroSystems
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 28-TSSOP (0.173", 4.40mm Width) Exposed Pad
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Motor Type - Stepper:
- Bipolar
- Motor Type - AC, DC:
- -
- Function:
- Driver - Fully Integrated, Control and Power Stage
- Output Configuration:
- Half Bridge (4)
- Interface:
- Logic
- Technology:
- DMOS
- Step Resolution:
- 1, 1/2, 1/8, 1/16
- Applications:
- -
- Current - Output:
- 1A
- Voltage - Supply:
- 3V ~ 5.5V
- Voltage - Load:
- 7V ~ 50V
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 150°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- Automotive
- Qualification:
- AEC-Q100
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 28-TSSOP-EP
A3980KLPTR FAQ
1.How can I place an order for A3980KLPTR through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for A3980KLPTR 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 A3980KLPTR reliable?
The price and inventory of A3980KLPTR are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for A3980KLPTR is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for A3980KLPTR?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for A3980KLPTR transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for A3980KLPTR?
A3980KLPTR orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your A3980KLPTR 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 A3980KLPTR?
For technical support, including A3980KLPTR datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your A3980KLPTR requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that A3980KLPTR is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All A3980KLPTR 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 A3980KLPTR meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of A3980KLPTR?
All A3980KLPTR units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with A3980KLPTR, 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 A3980KLPTR part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for A3980KLPTR:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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