Texas Instruments DRV8818PWP
- Part No.:
- DRV8818PWP
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Category:
- Motor Drivers, Controllers
- Package:
- 28-PowerTSSOP (0.173", 4.40mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
DRV8818PWP.pdf
- Description:
- IC MTR DRV BIPLR 3-5.5V 28HTSSOP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
DRV8818PWP from Texas Instruments is a 35V, 2.5A bipolar stepper motor driver IC with integrated 1/8 microstepping indexer, STEP/DIR interface, and dual H-bridge output stage. It delivers up to 2.5A per winding at 8–35V VM supply, features programmable mixed/slow/fast decay modes, and supports precise current regulation via external sense resistors and VREF input. It is used in motion control systems requiring smooth low-vibration positioning, such as IP camera pan/tilt mechanisms.
For engineers reviewing the DRV8818PWP datasheet, DRV8818PWP pinout, DRV8818PWP application, or DRV8818PWP equivalent, this page provides verified technical context, exact pin functions, thermal and electrical specifications, real-world implementation constraints, and validated alternative options for stepper motor driver selection.
Technical Context
The DRV8818PWP integrates two N-channel H-bridge drivers with internal current-sense amplification (×8 gain), a microstepping indexer with USM0/USM1-configurable step resolution (full to 1/8-step), and independent blanking/off-time control per bridge via RCA/RCB pins. Its charge-pump-based gate drive enables full N-FET operation without external high-side drivers.
Protection architecture includes independent overcurrent detection (3.5A threshold, 1.5µs deglitch), thermal shutdown (150–180°C trip), and VM/VCC undervoltage lockout (7.5V/2.95V thresholds). Sleep mode reduces VM supply current to 3µA while preserving logic state, and synchronous rectification (SRn) is configurable per bridge.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Supply Voltage (VM) | 8V to 35V - supports industrial 24V rails and higher-voltage stepper systems without external regulators. |
| Output Current | 2.5A per winding - continuous RMS current capability with thermal derating; peak current limited by OCP at 3.5A. |
| RDS(on) (HS + LS) | 370mΩ at 25°C - total conduction loss of ~2.3W at 2.5A, enabling compact heatsinking in HTSSOP-28 PowerPAD™ package. |
| Microstepping | 1/8-step max - achieved via USM0/USM1 pins; home state at 45° ensures deterministic startup position. |
| Decay Modes | Programmable fast/slow/mixed - selected by DECAY pin voltage (0.21×VCC / 0.6×VCC thresholds); mixed mode improves torque at mid-speeds. |
| Logic Supply (VCC) | 3V to 5.5V - separate rail allows interfacing with 3.3V or 5V controllers without level-shifting. |
| Thermal Resistance | RθJA = 32.2°C/W - requires ≥250mm² copper pour under PowerPAD™ for 2.5A continuous operation at 70°C ambient. |
Pinout & Package
DRV8818PWP is housed in a thermally enhanced 28-pin HTSSOP package (PWP) with exposed PowerPAD™ on underside (9.7mm × 6.4mm footprint). The PowerPAD™ must be soldered to PCB ground plane for thermal and electrical integrity.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| STEP (19) | Asynchronous step clock input | Rising edge advances indexer state; min pulse width 1μs; internal pulldown ensures safe idle state. |
| DIR (3) | Direction control input | High = forward sequence per Table 6-2; low = reverse; weak internal pulldown prevents floating. |
| VREF (8) | Current reference input | 0.05–VCC range sets full-scale chopping current: ICHOP = VREF/(8×RSENSE). |
| AOUT1/AOUT2 (4,25) | H-bridge A outputs | Drive one motor winding; polarity defines positive current direction (AOUT1 → AOUT2). |
| BOUT1/BOUT2 (11,18) | H-bridge B outputs | Drive second winding; complementary to A-bridge for bipolar stepper commutation. |
| ISENA/ISENB (1,14) | Current sense return | Connect to low-side of sense resistor; internal 8× gain enables accurate 0.1V–0.875V sensing range. |
| DECAY (5) | Decay mode select | Voltage sets decay behavior: <0.21×VCC = fast, >0.6×VCC = slow, between = mixed decay timing point. |
| SLEEPn (27) | Low-power enable | Active-low; pulls VM supply current to 3µA; tWAKE = 1ms required before accepting STEP edges. |
| ENABLEn (26) | Output disable control | Active-high; disables H-bridges to Hi-Z but preserves indexer state and logic functionality. |
| HOMEn (2) | Indexer home indicator | Active-low open-drain output asserted only at power-up/reset or when indexer reaches 45° home state. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Integrated microstepping indexer | Eliminates need for external microstep sequencing logic; USM0/USM1 pins configure full/half/quarter/eighth-step modes with deterministic 45° home state. |
| Programmable mixed decay | Optimizes torque and efficiency across speed range: fast decay during current decay phase, switching to slow decay to reduce power loss and audible noise. |
| Configurable blanking & off time | RCA/RCB pins accept RC networks (12–100kΩ + 470–1500pF) to set tBLANK (900–1500ns) and tOFF (35–53μs), matching motor L/R characteristics. |
| Independent bridge control | Separate RCA/RCB, ISENA/ISENB, and decay tuning allow asymmetric optimization for non-identical motor windings or dual-motor configurations. |
| Robust protection suite | Hardware-level OCP (3.5A), TSD (150–180°C), UVLO (VM: 7.5V, VCC: 2.95V), and short-circuit detection operate independently of PWM control loop. |
Applications
| IP Camera Pan/Tilt Control | Industrial Textile Machinery |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Precision angular positioning of PTZ camera modules with minimal vibration and acoustic noise during slow sweeps or rapid repositioning. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Stepper motor driver executing 1/8-step microstepping with programmable mixed decay to suppress resonance and maintain torque at 10–60 RPM. Use Value: Enables sub-degree positioning accuracy (0.225°/step at 1/8-step) and silent operation critical for surveillance environments. |
Use Scenario: Synchronized multi-axis motion in embroidery machines and CNC sewing systems requiring repeatable stitch placement and tension control. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bipolar stepper driver managing two independent axes with separate RCA/RCB tuning for differing motor inductances and load profiles. Use Value: Supports >100,000 stitch cycles with consistent step accuracy and thermal stability under continuous 2.5A loads. |
| Multifunction Printer Paper Path | Robotic Joint Actuation |
Use Scenario: Bidirectional paper feed, registration, and duplex transport in laser and inkjet printers where timing jitter causes skew or misfeeds. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-reliability stepper driver with built-in indexer and 1μs STEP pulse tolerance ensuring deterministic step advancement under variable load. Use Value: Eliminates controller CPU overhead for step sequencing while maintaining <100ns timing jitter for ±0.1mm paper positioning. |
Use Scenario: Low-inertia joint actuation in collaborative robots and pick-and-place arms requiring smooth acceleration/deceleration without step loss. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Motor driver with fast OCP response (1.5µs deglitch) and thermal shutdown protecting against stall-induced overheating during payload changes. Use Value: Enables safe torque-limited operation with automatic recovery from transient overloads without system reset. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar stepper motor driver applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| DRV8811PWP | Higher 38V VM rating but 1000mΩ RDS(on); no microstepping indexer; requires external step sequencing logic. | Used where higher voltage margin is needed but microstepping is handled by MCU; unsuitable for STEP/DIR-only systems. | Select DRV8811PWP only if system already implements microstep logic and operates above 35V. |
| DRV8818APWP | Pin-compatible 35V variant with Smart Tune™ auto-tuning of decay and blanking; 310mΩ RDS(on); same 1/8-step capability. | Reduces design iteration time for unknown motor parameters; eliminates manual RC network selection for tBLANK/tOFF. | Choose DRV8818APWP when optimizing for fastest time-to-function with uncharacterized stepper motors. |
Compared with DRV8818PWP, DRV8811PWP trades microstepping integration for higher voltage headroom and higher conduction loss, while DRV8818APWP retains full compatibility but adds auto-tuning intelligence-making it ideal for rapid prototyping where motor L/R values are unknown.
Availability
DRV8818PWP is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial automation, robotics, and precision imaging applications requiring stable component supply, long-term production continuity, and traceable sourcing from authorized channels.
Supply support for DRV8818PWP 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 power management technologies with over 50 years of innovation in motor control ICs.
The DRV8818PWP belongs to TI's high-performance stepper motor driver product line, designed specifically for cost-sensitive, space-constrained motion control systems needing integrated microstepping, robust protection, and flexible decay tuning without external sequencers.
FAQ
What is the maximum microstepping resolution supported by the DRV8818PWP?
The DRV8818PWP supports up to 1/8 microstepping, configured using the USM0 and USM1 pins. This yields 8 discrete current steps per full mechanical step, enabling precise angular positioning-e.g., 0.225° per step for a standard 1.8° stepper motor. The indexer logic ensures deterministic home state alignment at power-up or reset, and all microstep states are implemented in hardware without MCU intervention.
How does the DRV8818PWP implement current regulation and what external components are required?
The DRV8818PWP regulates winding current using PWM chopping controlled by an internal comparator comparing 8× the voltage across an external sense resistor to the VREF input voltage. Required external components include: a 0.1μF ceramic capacitor from VCC to GND; 0.22μF capacitors on CP1/CP2 and VCP; 0.22μF capacitor from VGD to GND; and RC networks on RCA/RCB pins (e.g., 47kΩ + 1000pF) to set blanking and off times. No external current DAC or sequencer is needed.
Can the DRV8818PWP drive unipolar stepper motors?
No, the DRV8818PWP is designed exclusively for bipolar stepper motors. Its dual H-bridge architecture drives both ends of each winding with bidirectional current, which is incompatible with unipolar motor topologies that require center-tapped windings and single-ended switching. Attempting to use DRV8818PWP with a unipolar motor will result in incorrect commutation and potential device damage due to improper current paths.
What thermal management is required for continuous 2.5A operation of the DRV8818PWP?
For continuous 2.5A per winding at 24V VM, the DRV8818PWP dissipates approximately 2.3W in the MOSFETs (based on 370mΩ RDS(on)). With RθJA = 32.2°C/W, a 250mm² minimum copper pour connected to the PowerPAD™ is mandatory to limit junction temperature rise to ≤80°C at 70°C ambient. Thermal vias (≥6× 0.3mm diameter) under the PowerPAD™ are strongly recommended to enhance heat transfer to inner layers or chassis ground.
Does the DRV8818PWP support synchronous rectification and how is it enabled?
Yes, the DRV8818PWP supports synchronous rectification via the SRn pin. When SRn is driven logic low, the device actively turns on the appropriate low-side FETs during decay phases instead of relying on body diodes-reducing conduction losses and improving efficiency. SRn has a weak internal pulldown, so it defaults to synchronous mode unless pulled high. This feature is active in all decay modes and directly impacts thermal performance at high currents.
DRV8818PWP Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 28-PowerTSSOP (0.173", 4.40mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Last Time Buy
- Motor Type - Stepper:
- Bipolar
- Motor Type - AC, DC:
- -
- Function:
- Driver - Fully Integrated, Control and Power Stage
- Output Configuration:
- Half Bridge (4)
- Interface:
- Logic
- Technology:
- Power MOSFET
- Step Resolution:
- 1, 1/2, 1/4, 1/8
- Applications:
- General Purpose
- Current - Output:
- 2.5A
- Voltage - Supply:
- 3V ~ 5.5V
- Voltage - Load:
- 8V ~ 35V
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 150°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 28-HTSSOP
DRV8818PWP FAQ
1.How can I place an order for DRV8818PWP through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for DRV8818PWP 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 DRV8818PWP reliable?
The price and inventory of DRV8818PWP are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for DRV8818PWP is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for DRV8818PWP?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for DRV8818PWP transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for DRV8818PWP?
DRV8818PWP orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your DRV8818PWP 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 DRV8818PWP?
For technical support, including DRV8818PWP datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your DRV8818PWP requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that DRV8818PWP is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All DRV8818PWP 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 DRV8818PWP meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of DRV8818PWP?
All DRV8818PWP units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with DRV8818PWP, 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 DRV8818PWP part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for DRV8818PWP:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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