Texas Instruments DRV8243HQDGQRQ1

Overview

DRV8243HQDGQRQ1 from Texas Instruments is an AEC-Q100 Grade 1 automotive H-bridge driver supporting 4.5–35 V operation, 12 A max output current, and integrated current sensing with proportional IPROPI analog feedback. It operates in single full-bridge or dual half-bridge modes, features configurable slew rate and spread-spectrum clocking for EMI reduction, and delivers on-state/ off-state load diagnostics for brushed DC motor control in body modules.

For engineers reviewing the DRV8243HQDGQRQ1 datasheet, DRV8243HQDGQRQ1 pinout, DRV8243HQDGQRQ1 application, or DRV8243HQDGQRQ1 equivalent, this page provides verified technical context, package-specific pin functions, functional safety documentation support, and validated alternatives for automotive motor drive design.

Technical Context

The DRV8243HQDGQRQ1 implements a monolithic BiCMOS N-channel H-bridge with integrated charge pump, high-side current sense amplifier, and configurable fault reaction (latched or retry). It supports PWM and PH/EN control modes, automatic dead-time insertion up to 25 kHz, and offers three hardware-configurable variants - HW (H), SPI (S), and SPI (P) - differentiated by logic supply architecture and configurability depth.

Its diagnostic architecture includes VM voltage monitoring, open-load detection in both active and inactive states, over-current protection with programmable ITRIP thresholds (6 levels in HW variant), and thermal shutdown at 150°C junction temperature. The device integrates a low-power sleep mode drawing 1 µA typical at 25°C and supports 3.3 V / 5 V logic inputs.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

VQFN-HR (14-pin) package: 3 mm × 4.5 mm, wettable flank, thermally enhanced bottom-exposed pad. HVSSOP (28-pin) package: 3 mm × 7.3 mm, exposed thermal pad. Both packages support high-current routing via multiple parallel pins for VM, GND, OUT1, and OUT2.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with DRV8243HQDGQRQ1, DRV8244HQDGQRQ1 offers higher current capability and lower conduction loss in identical footprint, while DRV8257PAPWRQ1 provides multi-bridge integration at the cost of increased complexity and absence of hardware-only configuration.

Availability

DRV8243HQDGQRQ1 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive door modules, mirror positioning systems, and seat actuation requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for DRV8243HQDGQRQ1 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

Texas Instruments is a global semiconductor leader specializing in analog, embedded processing, and automotive ICs, with deep expertise in power management and motor control solutions.

The DRV824x-Q1 product line is designed specifically for ASIL-B compliant automotive brushed DC motor applications - emphasizing integrated diagnostics, functional safety readiness, and robust thermal performance in compact packages.

FAQ

What is the maximum continuous output current rating for the DRV8243HQDGQRQ1?

The DRV8243HQDGQRQ1 is rated for 12 A maximum continuous output current. This value is validated across the full operating temperature range (–40°C to +125°C ambient) and accounts for thermal derating in the VQFN-HR (84 mΩ) and HVSSOP (98 mΩ) package variants. Actual achievable current depends on PCB copper area, airflow, and ambient temperature - refer to RθJA (48.4°C/W for VQFN-HR) for thermal design guidance. The DRV8243HQDGQRQ1 includes over-temperature protection that disables outputs above 150°C junction temperature.

Does the DRV8243HQDGQRQ1 support both full-bridge and half-bridge configurations?

Yes, the DRV8243HQDGQRQ1 supports both configurations. In single full-bridge mode, it drives one brushed DC motor using PH/EN or PWM inputs. In Independent mode, it operates as two separate half-bridges - enabling control of two solenoids or dual-axis actuators. Configuration is set via the MODE pin (HW variant) or register (SPI variant). The DRV8243HQDGQRQ1 does not require external logic to switch between these topologies; all control is handled internally with automatic dead-time management.

How does the integrated current sense in the DRV8243HQDGQRQ1 eliminate the need for an external shunt resistor?

The DRV8243HQDGQRQ1 integrates a high-side current sense amplifier with proportional analog output on the IPROPI pin (typically 1 V/A). This architecture measures load current directly through the high-side FET's sense FET, avoiding external shunt placement, Kelvin routing, and associated offset/gain calibration. The DRV8243HQDGQRQ1 delivers accurate current feedback across temperature (±5% typical error) without consuming board space or introducing parasitic inductance - critical for EMC-sensitive automotive applications.

What diagnostic capabilities does the DRV8243HQDGQRQ1 provide for open-load and short-circuit detection?

The DRV8243HQDGQRQ1 performs load diagnostics in both on-state (active) and off-state (inactive) conditions. During off-state, it applies a small test current to detect open circuits (no return path) or shorts to battery/ground. In on-state, it monitors current response and voltage drop to identify stalled motors or winding shorts. Faults are reported collectively on the nFAULT pin and - for SPI variants - logged individually in registers. These diagnostics meet ASIL-B requirements and are enabled without host processor intervention.

Is the DRV8243HQDGQRQ1 pin-compatible with other devices in the DRV824x-Q1 family?

The DRV8243HQDGQRQ1 shares identical pin functions and package footprints with other members of the DRV824x-Q1 family (e.g., DRV8244HQDGQRQ1, DRV8245HQDGQRQ1), but is not a drop-in replacement due to differences in RON, current rating, and thermal characteristics. While PCB layout can be reused across VQFN-HR or HVSSOP variants, thermal design and current-carrying traces must be re-evaluated. The DRV8243HQDGQRQ1 also differs in supported variants: it offers HW (H) and SPI (S), but not SPI (P), unlike some higher-current siblings.