Microchip Technology ATA6836C-PXQW

Overview

ATA6836C-PXQW from Microchip Technology (formerly Atmel) is a Smart Power SOI-based hex half-bridge driver IC designed for precise control of six independent loads-such as DC motors, bulbs, and inductive actuators-in automotive body electronics and industrial motion systems. It integrates six high-side and six low-side drivers with R_DS(on) ≤ 1.8 Ω at 150°C, 650-mA per channel output current, 5-V serial interface compatibility, and daisy-chain capability.

For engineers reviewing the ATA6836C-PXQW datasheet, ATA6836C-PXQW pinout, ATA6836C-PXQW application, or ATA6836C-PXQW equivalent, this page delivers verified technical context, validated pin functions for QFN24, real-world diagnostic capabilities (open-load, short-circuit, overtemperature), and direct alternative part comparisons grounded in functional equivalence-not marketing claims.

Technical Context

The ATA6836C-PXQW implements six independently controllable half-bridges using Smart Power SOI technology, enabling bidirectional drive of resistive, capacitive, and inductive loads without external flyback components. Its internal charge pump supports high-side switching up to 40 V VS supply while maintaining logic-level 5-V CMOS serial interface compatibility.

Diagnosis is implemented via a 16-bit status register accessible through the same serial interface: real-time reporting includes temperature prewarning (TP), power supply fail (PSF), short-circuit detection (SCD), and per-channel open-load flags (e.g., Status HS1/LS1). Fault response includes programmable short-circuit shutdown delay (1.5 ms or 12 ms) and thermal hysteresis with T_jPWset = 120–170°C and T_jSWoff = 150–200°C.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

ATA6836C-PXQW is packaged in a 5 mm × 5 mm QFN24 with exposed thermal pad (JEDEC MO-220), optimized for high-power density and PCB-level thermal dissipation (R_thJA = 35 K/W typical).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar hex half-bridge driver applications.

Compared with TLE9201SE and BD1600FV-M, the ATA6836C-PXQW uniquely combines 5-V serial daisy-chaining, per-channel open-load detection, and 40-V operation - making it optimal for scalable, diagnostic-rich automotive body control designs where layout space and firmware overhead are constrained.

Availability

ATA6836C-PXQW is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body electronics, industrial actuator control, and smart valve driver applications requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and AEC-Q100-compliant performance.

Supply support for ATA6836C-PXQW 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

Microchip Technology acquired Atmel in 2016 and maintains full product support, qualification, and manufacturing continuity for the ATA6836 family.

The ATA6836C-PXQW belongs to Microchip's Smart Power SOI automotive driver portfolio, engineered specifically for high-reliability, diagnostic-capable load control in body electronics and chassis subsystems.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating voltage for the ATA6836C-PXQW VS supply pin?

The ATA6836C-PXQW supports a VS supply voltage range of –0.3 V to +40 V continuously, with transient tolerance up to +40 V for durations under 0.5 seconds. This rating enables reliable operation during automotive load-dump events and cold-crank conditions. The absolute maximum rating is strictly enforced - exceeding +40 V risks permanent damage. Always use recommended decoupling (22 µF + 100 nF per VS rail) to maintain stability.

Does the ATA6836C-PXQW support daisy-chaining, and how is it implemented?

Yes, the ATA6836C-PXQW supports daisy-chaining via its 5-V CMOS serial interface. Multiple devices share CLK, CS, and DI lines, while DO outputs are wired in series (DO of device N → DI of device N+1). Each device shifts out its 16-bit status register on DO during CS low, enabling read-back of all units in one transaction. This eliminates additional SPI chip-select lines and simplifies firmware for multi-node systems like door modules or seat controllers.

How does open-load detection work on the ATA6836C-PXQW, and what configuration is required?

Open-load detection on the ATA6836C-PXQW is enabled by setting bit 13 (OLD) low in the 16-bit input register. When activated, the IC sources ±0.4–1.5 mA test current per high-/low-side switch. If V_VS – V_HSx or V_LSx falls below threshold (0.6–2.5 V), the corresponding Status HSx/LSx bit goes high in the output register. Detection is disabled automatically when that output stage is actively switched - ensuring accurate reporting only during idle or diagnostic phases.

What thermal metrics apply to the ATA6836C-PXQW in QFN24 package?

The ATA6836C-PXQW in QFN24 package has a typical junction-to-ambient thermal resistance (R_thJA) of 35 K/W and junction-to-pad resistance (R_thJP) < 5 K/W when mounted on a 4-layer PCB with ≥200 mm² copper pour connected to the exposed thermal pad (pin 16). These values assume proper soldering of the pad and thermal vias to inner ground planes. Exceeding T_j = 150°C triggers thermal shutdown; prewarning activates at 120–170°C with hysteresis to avoid oscillation.

Can the ATA6836C-PXQW drive inductive loads like DC motors without external flyback diodes?

Yes, the ATA6836C-PXQW integrates internal reverse diodes across each high-side and low-side MOSFET, enabling safe commutation of inductive loads such as DC motors without external flyback components. The datasheet confirms inductive shutdown energy handling up to 15 mJ per channel. However, for high-energy or high-frequency PWM applications, external RC snubbers may still be advised to suppress voltage overshoot beyond the 40-V absolute maximum rating.