Asahi Kasei Microdevices/AKM AP1014AEC

Overview

AP1014AEC from Asahi Kasei Microdevices is a dual H-bridge motor driver IC integrating N-channel LDMOS FETs on both high-side and low-side outputs, supporting forward/reverse/brake/standby modes with 7.0V motor supply, 2.7–5.5V control supply, and 1.1A DC output per channel at 25°C. It enables PWM-driven small-motor control in space-constrained applications.

For engineers reviewing the AP1014AEC datasheet, AP1014AEC pinout, AP1014AEC application, or AP1014AEC equivalent, key selection factors include its WL-CSP package footprint (1.96mm × 1.96mm), SEL-configurable input logic, integrated UVLO (2.2V threshold) and thermal shutdown (175°C), and dual-channel R_ON of 0.35Ω (typ) at 25°C.

Technical Context

The AP1014AEC implements two independent H-bridge drivers with charge-pump-based gate drive for N-ch LDMOS FETs, enabling full-bridge operation without external high-side drivers. Its internal logic supports four motion states-forward, reverse, brake, and standby-via EN, SEL, and dual INnA/INnB inputs per channel.

It integrates under-voltage lockout (VC < 2.2V) and thermal shutdown (T_j = 175°C with 30°C hysteresis), and features separate VM1/VM2 power rails shorted internally, plus GND1/GND2 tied together. The SEL pin selects between active-high and active-low input logic mapping for PWM compatibility.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

AP1014AEC uses a 16-pin Wafer-Level Chip-Scale Package (WL-CSP) measuring 1.96mm × 1.96mm with 0.5mm pitch and bottom-solder ball layout. Pin assignment follows standard top-view orientation with A1 as reference corner.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar dual H-bridge motor driver applications.

Compared with TB67H420FTG and DRV8837C, the AP1014AEC uniquely combines dual-channel integration, SEL-configurable logic, and WL-CSP packaging-enabling space-constrained, low-power bidirectional motor control without external gate drivers or logic inverters.

Availability

AP1014AEC is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for smartphone camera modules, wearable haptics, medical drug delivery pumps, and miniature robotics requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle support.

Supply support for AP1014AEC 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

Asahi Kasei Microdevices (AKM) is a Japanese semiconductor company specializing in analog, mixed-signal, and sensor ICs, with core expertise in audio, motor control, and magnetic sensing technologies.

The AP1014AEC belongs to AKM's motor driver product line, designed specifically for ultra-compact, low-voltage bidirectional motor control in portable and wearables applications where size, thermal efficiency, and logic flexibility are critical.

FAQ

What is the maximum continuous output current per channel for the AP1014AEC?

The AP1014AEC delivers 1.1A DC per channel at T_a = 25°C and 0.8A per channel at T_a = 85°C. These values reflect actual thermal derating under sustained load; peak current capability reaches 2.0A for pulses ≤10ms within a 200ms window. Designers must verify PCB copper area and airflow to maintain these ratings in end equipment.

Does the AP1014AEC require external components for gate driving?

No-the AP1014AEC integrates a charge pump circuit that generates VG = VC + VM to fully enhance its internal N-channel LDMOS high-side FETs. Only a 0.1μF ceramic capacitor between VG and GND is required. No external gate drivers, bootstrap circuits, or high-side P-FETs are needed, simplifying design and reducing bill-of-materials.

How does the SEL pin affect input logic behavior in the AP1014AEC?

The SEL pin configures whether the AP1014AEC interprets INnA/INnB as active-high or active-low signals. When SEL = L, inputs follow standard active-high logic; when SEL = H, they invert-allowing seamless interface with MCUs that lack configurable GPIO polarity. An internal 200kΩ pull-down ensures safe default (SEL = L) at power-up.

What protection features are built into the AP1014AEC?

The AP1014AEC includes under-voltage lockout (UVLO) that disables operation if VC drops below 2.2V, and thermal shutdown that activates at T_j = 175°C with 30°C hysteresis. Both functions are fully internal-no external components or configuration are required. These protections prevent malfunction during brown-out or overload conditions, enhancing system reliability.

Is the AP1014AEC compatible with 3.3V microcontroller GPIOs?

Yes-the AP1014AEC accepts control inputs (INnA, INnB, EN, SEL) referenced to VC, which operates from 2.7V to 5.5V. With VC = 3.3V, VIH ≥ 2.31V and VIL ≤ 0.99V, making it fully compatible with standard 3.3V CMOS logic. Input leakage remains below ±21μA, ensuring minimal loading on MCU outputs.