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Texas Instruments DRV8838DSGT
- Part No.:
- DRV8838DSGT
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Category:
- Motor Drivers, Controllers
- Package:
- 8-WFDFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
DRV8838DSGT.pdf
- Description:
- IC BRIDGE DRIVER PAR 8WSON
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:4,132
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Product details
Overview
DRV8838DSGT from Texas Instruments is a low-voltage H-bridge motor driver IC designed to control brushed DC motors and solenoids in space-constrained, battery-powered systems. It delivers up to 1.8 A peak output current, features PH/EN interface logic, integrates N-channel MOSFETs with 280 mΩ combined HS+LS on-resistance, and operates with motor supply (VM) from 0–11 V and logic supply (VCC) from 1.8–7 V - enabling use in DSLR lens actuators and compact robotics.
For engineers reviewing the DRV8838DSGT datasheet, DRV8838DSGT pinout, DRV8838DSGT application, or DRV8838DSGT equivalent, key selection criteria include its 8-pin WSON package with thermal pad, 120-nA sleep current, integrated overcurrent/thermal/UVLO protection, and compatibility with industry-standard PH-EN control timing.
Technical Context
The DRV8838DSGT implements a fully integrated H-bridge using N-channel power MOSFETs driven by an internal charge pump, eliminating external high-side gate drivers. Its PH/EN interface decouples direction (PH) and enable (EN) functions, supporting simple microcontroller GPIO control without PWM generation overhead.
Internal protection includes analog overcurrent detection on both high- and low-side FETs (trip threshold 1.9–3.5 A), thermal shutdown at ≥150°C, and VCC undervoltage lockout (1.7 V falling / 1.8 V rising). Fault recovery is automatic: OCP resets after 1-ms retry delay; TSD resumes when die temperature falls below 150°C.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Peak Output Current | 1.8 A - supports small DC motors and solenoids requiring moderate torque in portable devices |
| HS + LS rDS(on) | 280 mΩ (typ.) - minimizes conduction loss and self-heating at 1-A load, enabling thermally constrained PCB layouts |
| Sleep Current | 120 nA max - extends battery life in always-on optical modules (e.g., camera autofocus standby) |
| VM Operating Range | 0 to 11 V - accommodates single-cell Li-ion (up to 4.2 V), dual-cell alkaline (up to 3.2 V), or regulated 5-V/9-V rails |
| VCC Operating Range | 1.8 to 7 V - interfaces directly with 1.8-V, 3.3-V, or 5-V logic without level shifters |
| OCP Trip Threshold | 1.9 A min - provides robust short-circuit protection while avoiding false trips during motor startup surge |
| Thermal Shutdown | 150°C min - safeguards silicon integrity under sustained overload or poor heatsinking |
Pinout & Package
DRV8838DSGT uses an 8-pin WSON package (DSG) with 2.0 × 2.0 mm body and exposed thermal pad for enhanced power dissipation. The package is RoHS-compliant and moisture-sensitive level 2 (MSL-2).
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 - VM | Motor power input | Supplies H-bridge FETs; requires 0.1-µF ceramic bypass to GND; no UVLO protection |
| 2 - OUT1 | H-bridge output | Connects to one terminal of DC motor or solenoid; switches between VM and GND |
| 3 - OUT2 | H-bridge output | Connects to opposite motor/solenoid terminal; complementary switching with OUT1 |
| 4 - GND | Power and signal reference | Must be connected to system ground plane; ties thermal pad electrically and thermally |
| 5 - EN | Enable input | Active-high logic control: drives outputs when high; disables outputs (Hi-Z) when low |
| 6 - PH | Phase/direction input | Determines current direction: PH = 1 → OUT2 high / OUT1 low (forward); PH = 0 → OUT1 high / OUT2 low (reverse) |
| 7 - nSLEEP | Low-power mode control | Active-low; forces all FETs Hi-Z and shuts down internal logic; 120-nA quiescent draw |
| 8 - VCC | Logic power input | Powers internal logic and gate drivers; requires 0.1-µF ceramic bypass to GND; enables UVLO protection |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| PH/EN interface | Reduces MCU GPIO count vs. PWM-based drivers; eliminates need for dual-PWM generation or dedicated timer peripherals |
| Integrated charge pump | Enables full N-channel H-bridge operation without external high-side gate drive components or bootstrap capacitors |
| 120-nA sleep current | Permits integration into always-on optical systems (e.g., DSLR lens position hold) without measurable battery drain |
| Thermal pad WSON package | Provides 9.8°C/W junction-to-case (bottom) thermal resistance - critical for maintaining <85°C ambient operation at 1.5-A continuous load |
| Independent fault recovery | Each protection (OCP, TSD, UVLO) recovers autonomously without host intervention - simplifies firmware error handling |
Applications
| Camera Autofocus Modules | DSL Lens Positioning |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Precise linear actuation of lens elements in smartphone or mirrorless camera modules during focus acquisition. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: H-bridge driver controlling bidirectional movement of voice-coil or piezo-driven lens carriers via PH/EN signals from ASIC or MCU. Use Value: 280-mΩ on-resistance ensures minimal voltage drop at 800-mA typical focus current, preserving resolution and speed under battery voltage sag. | Use Scenario: Smooth, silent positioning of zoom/focus groups in professional DSLR lenses powered by internal coin cells or main battery. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Motor driver executing microstep-like motion profiles using PH/EN edge-triggered control synchronized to lens controller timing. Use Value: 120-nA sleep current enables indefinite lens park mode without depleting backup power sources. |
| Medical Disposable Pumps | Miniature Robotics Actuators |
Use Scenario: Driving peristaltic or syringe pump motors in handheld diagnostic analyzers requiring FDA-compliant low-power operation. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Solenoid and DC motor driver managing fluid delivery sequences under strict current and thermal limits. Use Value: Integrated OCP (1.9 A min) and TSD (150°C) provide fail-safe shutdown without external monitoring circuitry - reducing BOM count and validation effort. | Use Scenario: Bidirectional control of joint servos or gripper mechanisms in palm-sized educational or inspection robots. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Compact H-bridge enabling dual-motor control per IC in space-limited chassis with shared 3.3-V logic rail. Use Value: 1.8–7-V VCC range allows direct connection to common MCU I/O voltages, eliminating level-shifter components and associated layout complexity. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar H-bridge motor driver applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| TB67H450FNG | Higher 3.5-A peak current; 5–44-V VM range; larger HTSOP-J8 package (4.5 × 6 mm) | Targets industrial 24-V systems; unsuitable for sub-5-V battery operation due to higher minimum VM | Select when >2-A motor current or >11-V supply is required; avoid for space-constrained 3.3-V designs |
| MP6550GQZ | 1.5-A peak; 1.8–11-V VM; 2.5 × 2.5 mm QFN-12; no integrated charge pump (requires external bootstrap) | Requires external high-side gate drive components; lacks nSLEEP pin for ultra-low-power standby | Choose only if footprint flexibility allows 12-pin QFN and design can accommodate bootstrap circuitry |
Compared with TB67H450FNG and MP6550GQZ, the DRV8838DSGT uniquely balances ultra-low sleep current (120 nA), compact 2.0 × 2.0 mm WSON packaging, and full integration (charge pump, PH/EN interface, thermal pad) for battery-powered optical and medical micro-actuation - where size, standby power, and component count are primary constraints.
Availability
DRV8838DSGT is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for camera autofocus modules, DSLR lens positioning systems, and miniature robotics requiring stable component supply across production lifecycles.
Supply support for DRV8838DSGT 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 company headquartered in Dallas, Texas, specializing in analog, embedded processing, and digital signal processing technologies.
The DRV883x product line was engineered specifically for low-voltage, battery-operated motion control - delivering integrated H-bridge functionality, ultra-low quiescent power, and compact packaging for cameras, consumer electronics, and portable medical devices.
FAQ
What is the maximum continuous output current rating for DRV8838DSGT?
The DRV8838DSGT is rated for 1.8-A peak output current. Continuous current capability depends on PCB thermal design: with 2-layer board and 1-in² copper pour, it supports ~1.2 A continuous; with 4-layer board and thermal pad soldered to internal ground plane, it sustains ~1.5 A. Derating is required above 85°C ambient per the RθJA = 60.9°C/W specification. The DRV8838DSGT must not exceed its absolute maximum junction temperature of 150°C.
Does DRV8838DSGT require external components for high-side gate driving?
No, the DRV8838DSGT does not require external components for high-side gate driving. It integrates an internal charge pump that generates the necessary gate-drive voltage above VM for the N-channel high-side MOSFETs. This eliminates the need for external bootstrap capacitors, diodes, or dedicated high-side driver ICs - a key differentiator from discrete or non-integrated H-bridge solutions.
How does the PH/EN interface of DRV8838DSGT differ from the PWM interface used in DRV8837?
The DRV8838DSGT uses a PH/EN interface where PH sets motor direction (forward/reverse) and EN enables/disables drive - allowing simple GPIO control without PWM generation. In contrast, the DRV8837 uses IN1/IN2 PWM inputs requiring two complementary logic signals. This makes the DRV8838DSGT more compatible with resource-constrained MCUs and reduces firmware complexity for basic bidirectional control.
What protection features are built into DRV8838DSGT?
The DRV8838DSGT includes three integrated protection features: VCC undervoltage lockout (UVLO) triggers below 1.7 V; overcurrent protection (OCP) detects >1.9 A on either FET and disables outputs for 1 ms before auto-retry; and thermal shutdown (TSD) activates at ≥150°C junction temperature. All protections disable the H-bridge outputs and recover automatically when conditions normalize - no host intervention required.
Can DRV8838DSGT operate with VM = 0 V while VCC remains powered?
Yes, the DRV8838DSGT can operate with VM = 0 V while VCC is powered within 1.8–7 V. The device enters a low-power state drawing only microamps from VM, and internal logic remains active. However, no motor drive is possible without VM voltage. This behavior enables safe sequencing (e.g., powering logic before motor rail) and supports systems where VM may be switched independently - a feature confirmed in Section 7.3.4 of the official datasheet for DRV8838DSGT.
DRV8838DSGT Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 8-WFDFN Exposed Pad
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Last Time Buy
- Motor Type - Stepper:
- -
- Motor Type - AC, DC:
- Brushed DC
- Function:
- Driver - Fully Integrated, Control and Power Stage
- Output Configuration:
- Half Bridge (2)
- Interface:
- On/Off
- Technology:
- NMOS
- Step Resolution:
- -
- Applications:
- DC Motors, General Purpose, Solenoids
- Current - Output:
- 1.8A
- Voltage - Supply:
- 1.8V ~ 7V
- Voltage - Load:
- 0V ~ 11V
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 150°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-WSON (2x2)
DRV8838DSGT FAQ
1.How can I place an order for DRV8838DSGT through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for DRV8838DSGT 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 DRV8838DSGT reliable?
The price and inventory of DRV8838DSGT are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for DRV8838DSGT is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for DRV8838DSGT?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for DRV8838DSGT transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for DRV8838DSGT?
DRV8838DSGT orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your DRV8838DSGT 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 DRV8838DSGT?
For technical support, including DRV8838DSGT datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your DRV8838DSGT requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that DRV8838DSGT is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All DRV8838DSGT 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 DRV8838DSGT meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of DRV8838DSGT?
All DRV8838DSGT units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with DRV8838DSGT, 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 DRV8838DSGT part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for DRV8838DSGT:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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