Texas Instruments DRV8860APW

Overview

DRV8860APW from Texas Instruments is an 8-channel serial-interface low-side NMOS driver IC with integrated catch diodes, overcurrent protection (620 mA trip), open-load detection (DRV8860 only - excluded in DRV8860A), and configurable PWM duty cycle. It operates from 8 V to 38 V and delivers up to 560 mA per channel (single-output mode) or 200 mA per channel (all 8 outputs active), targeting relay, solenoid, and unipolar stepper motor control in industrial automation and embedded motion systems.

For engineers reviewing the DRV8860APW datasheet, DRV8860APW pinout, DRV8860APW application, or DRV8860APW equivalent, key selection considerations include its TSSOP-16 package (5.00 mm × 6.40 mm), serial daisy-chain capability, open-drain nFAULT reporting, internal digital noise filtering, and absence of open-load detection versus the DRV8860 variant.

Technical Context

The DRV8860APW implements eight independent low-side NMOS output stages with R_DS(on) = 1.5 Ω (typ, 25°C) and integrated freewheeling diodes for inductive load transient clamping. Its serial interface uses DIN/CLK/LATCH signals with precise timing (t_SU(DIN) = 1 µs, t_CLK = 5 µs min) and supports daisy-chaining multiple devices using DOUT-to-DIN cascading.

Protection logic includes overcurrent shutdown (2.0–3.85 µs deglitch), undervoltage lockout (V_UVLO = 8.2 V), thermal shutdown (T_TSD = 150–180°C), and fault status readback via serial register access. Unlike DRV8860, DRV8860APW omits open-load detection circuitry, confirmed by datasheet revision history and electrical characteristics tables.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

TSSOP-16 package (5.00 mm × 6.40 mm) with exposed pad not connected internally (non-PowerPAD variant); requires standard PCB thermal relief for 200 mA × 8-channel continuous operation.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar low-side driver applications.

Compared with DRV8860PW, DRV8860APW removes open-load detection to reduce silicon area and cost, while retaining identical current ratings, thermal performance, and serial interface functionality. Against TPL9201PWR, DRV8860APW trades parallel control simplicity for serial expandability and built-in diodes - critical for rapid prototyping and noise-sensitive deployments.

Availability

DRV8860APW is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial automation, HVAC actuation, and embedded motion control requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle support, and verified thermal derating data for TSSOP-16 packaging.

Supply support for DRV8860APW 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 decades of expertise in motor control and industrial interface solutions.

The DRV8860A product line delivers highly integrated, thermally robust low-side drivers for electromechanical actuation - designed specifically to replace discrete MOSFET+diode+logic solutions in PLCs, valve controllers, and precision motion subsystems.

FAQ

What is the maximum continuous current per channel for DRV8860APW when all 8 outputs are active?

The DRV8860APW delivers 200 mA per channel continuously when all 8 outputs are active, as specified in the Recommended Operating Conditions table (I_OUT = 200 mA) and confirmed by thermal derating curves for the TSSOP-16 (PW) package at T_A = 25°C. This rating assumes proper PCB copper area and ambient airflow per TI's layout guidelines.

Does DRV8860APW support daisy-chaining with other DRV8860x devices?

Yes, DRV8860APW supports daisy-chaining: its DOUT pin connects directly to the DIN pin of the next DRV8860APW (or DRV8860) device, while CLK, LATCH, and nFAULT are shared across the chain. The serial interface protocol maintains full register access and fault reporting for each device in the chain without additional address lines.

How does the absence of open-load detection in DRV8860APW affect system diagnostics?

DRV8860APW omits the 30 µA pull-down current source and 1.2 V threshold comparator used in DRV8860 for open-load detection. Therefore, it cannot autonomously report broken-wire or disconnected-load faults on any channel. System-level diagnostics must rely on external voltage monitoring or current-sense feedback if open-circuit verification is required.

What is the purpose of the ENABLE pin on DRV8860APW, and what happens when it is held low?

When ENABLE is logic low, all 8 output drivers are disabled (high-impedance state), but the serial interface remains fully functional - allowing read/write access to Data, Control, and Fault registers. This enables safe configuration and status polling without risking unintended load activation, making it essential for initialization and fault recovery sequences in DRV8860APW-based designs.

Can DRV8860APW drive inductive loads without external flyback diodes?

Yes, DRV8860APW integrates freewheeling diodes from each OUTx pin to VM, enabling direct connection of relays, solenoids, and stepper windings without external diodes. These diodes clamp turn-off transients up to the VM rail, eliminating risk of voltage overshoot exceeding the 40 V absolute maximum rating and simplifying bill-of-materials.