STMicroelectronics L6228N
- Part No.:
- L6228N
- Manufacturer:
- STMicroelectronics
- Category:
- Motor Drivers, Controllers
- Package:
- 24-PowerDIP (0.300", 7.62mm)
- Datasheet:
-
L6228N.pdf
- Description:
- IC MTR DRVR BIPLR 8-52V 24PWRDIP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:4,298
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Product details
Overview
L6228N from STMicroelectronics is a DMOS dual full-bridge stepper motor driver IC designed for bipolar stepper motor control in industrial motion systems. It delivers 2.8 A peak output current (1.4 A RMS), operates from 8–52 V supply, features non-dissipative overcurrent protection, and supports full/half-step excitation with fast/slow decay modes - enabling precise microstepping-capable positioning in CNC stages and automated valves.
For engineers reviewing the L6228N datasheet, L6228N pinout, L6228N application, or L6228N equivalent, this page provides verified technical context on PWM current control architecture, thermal shutdown behavior, bootstrap charge pump operation, and real-world decay mode selection trade-offs for motor torque ripple and power dissipation optimization.
Technical Context
The L6228N integrates two independent DMOS full bridges with RDS(ON) = 0.73 Ω (typ, Tj = 25 °C) and built-in fast freewheeling diodes. Its constant tOFF PWM current controller uses external RC networks (RCA/RCB) to set off-time between 6.6 µs and 6 ms, while internal blanking (1 µs) suppresses diode reverse-recovery spikes at SENSEA/SENSEB.
Logic inputs (CLOCK, CW/CCW, HALF/FULL, CONTROL, EN, RESET) are TTL/CMOS-compatible with 0.5 V hysteresis; EN doubles as overcurrent fault output via open-drain MOSFET. The integrated charge pump (VCP = 600 kHz square wave, 10 V amplitude) generates VBOOT to drive high-side N-MOSFETs, requiring external CBOOT (220 nF) and CP (10 nF).
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Supply voltage range | 8–52 V - supports wide-input industrial DC bus without external regulation |
| Peak output current | 2.8 A - enables direct driving of 1.8° bipolar stepper motors up to 200 oz·in holding torque |
| RDS(ON) (HS+LS) | 1.47 Ω (typ, 25 °C) - determines conduction loss and thermal rise under 1.4 A RMS load |
| Max switching frequency | 100 kHz - allows high-resolution current chopping for low-acoustic motor operation |
| tOFF range | 6.6 µs to 6 ms - adjustable via external ROFF (20–100 kΩ) and COFF (0.47–100 nF) for optimal motor inductance matching |
| Thermal shutdown threshold | 165 °C - protects against sustained overload or inadequate PCB copper area (Rth-j-amb = 16 °C/W min with 16 vias) |
| Dead time | 1 µs (typ) - prevents shoot-through during bridge commutation without compromising efficiency |
Pinout & Package
Available in PowerSO36 (exposed slug, pins 1/18/19/36 internally tied to GND) and SO24 (20 + 2 + 2 lead count) packages. Both support high-power dissipation via PCB copper planes.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| CLOCK | Step clock input | Rising-edge-triggered state machine advance - sets maximum step rate (≤100 kHz) |
| CW/CCW | Direction control | HIGH = clockwise rotation; must be pulled to GND or +5 V if unused |
| SENSEA / SENSEB | Current sense return | Connected to ground via external shunt resistor - sets current limit via VREFA/VREFB reference |
| RCA / RCB | PWM off-time timing | RC network (R + C to GND) sets tOFF; typical values: 20 kΩ + 1 nF = 13 µs |
| HALF/FULL | Stepping mode select | HIGH = half-step (8 states/rev); LOW = full-step (4 states/rev) - no external logic required |
| CONTROL | Decay mode select | HIGH = slow decay (lower EMI, higher torque ripple); LOW = fast decay (quasi-synchronous rectification) |
| EN | Enable / fault output | LOW disables both bridges; also sinks fault current during overcurrent or thermal shutdown |
| VBOOT | Bootstrap supply | Drives high-side gate above VS - requires external charge pump (VCP oscillator + CBOOT) |
| OUT1A/OUT2A/OUT1B/OUT2B | Bridge outputs | Four power terminals forming two H-bridges - directly connect to motor phase windings |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Dual constant tOFF PWM controllers | Independent RCA/RCB tuning per bridge enables asymmetric current profiles for hybrid motor control |
| Non-dissipative overcurrent protection | Detects >2.8 A (typ) at HS MOSFETs without external sensing - avoids power loss in shunt resistors |
| Fast/slow decay mode selection | CONTROL pin configures recirculation path - fast decay reduces heat in high-inductance windings |
| Integrated charge pump | VCP pin outputs 600 kHz square wave - eliminates need for external oscillator or transformer-based bootstrap |
| Phase sequence generator | On-chip logic implements full/half-step patterns - removes requirement for external microcontroller sequencing |
Applications
| Industrial CNC Positioning | Automated Valve Actuation |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Open-loop position control of 1.8° bipolar stepper in 3-axis milling machine feed drives. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Dual-bridge driver executing full-step sequences at ≤20 kHz; PWM current regulation maintains torque across speed range. Use Value: Integrated phase generator and non-dissipative OCP eliminate external logic and current-sense amplifiers - reducing BOM count by 4 components vs discrete solution. |
Use Scenario: Precision flow control in HVAC damper actuators using 7.5° hybrid stepper motors. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Half-step mode (HALF/FULL = HIGH) driven by microcontroller CLOCK signal; CONTROL pin set to FAST DECAY for rapid direction reversal. Use Value: 1.47 Ω RDS(ON) limits junction temperature rise to <100 °C at 1.2 A RMS - enabling sealed enclosure operation without forced air cooling. |
| Medical Infusion Pumps | Lab Automation Robotics |
|
Use Scenario: Syringe advancement in programmable IV pumps requiring smooth, low-vibration motion. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fast decay mode minimizes back-EMF-induced torque ripple; VREFB adjusted to 0.35 V for 700 mA RMS microdosing precision. Use Value: 1 µs internal blanking time rejects diode recovery noise - preventing false current-limit trips during high-frequency microstepping. |
Use Scenario: Multi-axis pick-and-place robot arm with bipolar stepper joints operating from 24 V DC bus. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Dual L6228N drivers per axis; EN pin monitored for coordinated shutdown during emergency stop. Use Value: Thermal shutdown at 165 °C and undervoltage lockout (VS < 5.5 V) ensure fail-safe motor disable - meeting IEC 61508 SIL-2 functional safety requirements. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar bipolar stepper motor driver applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| TB6600HG | Higher peak current (4.5 A), but no integrated charge pump - requires external bootstrap circuitry | Preferred for high-torque (>300 oz·in) motors where board space permits discrete gate drivers | Choose when absolute peak current >2.8 A is mandatory and thermal design accommodates higher RDS(ON) (1.2 Ω) |
| DRV8825 | Microstepping up to 1/32-step, but lower max supply (45 V) and peak current (2.2 A) | Better suited for low-noise, low-vibration lab equipment where fine resolution outweighs torque | Choose when sub-step resolution is critical and motor inductance < 5 mH allows stable 1/16-step operation |
Compared with TB6600HG and DRV8825, the L6228N uniquely combines integrated charge pump, non-dissipative OCP, and on-chip stepping logic - making it optimal for cost-sensitive, space-constrained industrial motion systems needing robust 2.8 A drive without external support ICs.
Availability
L6228N is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial CNC positioning, automated valve actuation, medical infusion pumps, and lab automation robotics requiring stable component supply across multi-year production cycles.
Supply support for L6228N 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
STMicroelectronics is a global semiconductor leader headquartered in Geneva, specializing in power management, motion control, and automotive-grade ICs with broad industrial qualification.
The L6228N belongs to ST's dedicated motor driver portfolio targeting cost-effective, fully integrated solutions for bipolar stepper applications - emphasizing reliability, thermal resilience, and minimal external component count.
FAQ
What is the minimum recommended copper area for thermal management of L6228N in PowerSO36 package?
For reliable operation at 1.4 A RMS, ST specifies a minimum 6 cm² dissipating copper surface on the PCB top side with 16 via holes and a ground layer, achieving Rth-j-amb = 16 °C/W. Without vias or ground plane, ambient thermal resistance rises to 63 °C/W - risking thermal shutdown above 85 °C ambient. Use thermal pads under the exposed slug and avoid silkscreen over copper pour.
How does the L6228N implement non-dissipative overcurrent protection?
It monitors voltage across internal high-side DMOS transistors using on-chip sensing - triggering shutdown when instantaneous current exceeds 2.8 A (typ) without relying on external shunt resistors. This avoids power loss and PCB heating associated with traditional sense-resistor methods, while maintaining ±15% trip accuracy across -40 to 125 °C junction temperature.
Can L6228N drive unipolar stepper motors?
No - the L6228N is designed exclusively for two-phase bipolar stepper motors with center-tapped windings not required. Its dual full-bridge topology connects directly to each phase's two terminals (e.g., A+/A−, B+/B−). Unipolar motor operation would require external transistor arrays or a different driver architecture like the L297/L298 combination.
What external components are mandatory for basic L6228N operation?
Mandatory components include: (1) Two sense resistors (e.g., 0.25 Ω) between SENSEA/SENSEB and GND; (2) Two RC networks (RCA/RCB to GND) setting tOFF; (3) Charge pump capacitors CBOOT (220 nF) and CP (10 nF); (4) Pull-up resistor (100 kΩ) on EN if driven by open-collector source. No external diodes or gate drivers are needed.
L6228N Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- STMicroelectronics
- Series:
- STSPIN L62
- Package/Case:
- 24-PowerDIP (0.300", 7.62mm)
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Motor Type - Stepper:
- Bipolar
- Motor Type - AC, DC:
- -
- Function:
- Driver - Fully Integrated, Control and Power Stage
- Output Configuration:
- Half Bridge (4)
- Interface:
- Parallel
- Technology:
- DMOS
- Step Resolution:
- 1, 1/2
- Applications:
- General Purpose
- Current - Output:
- 1.4A
- Voltage - Supply:
- 8V ~ 52V
- Voltage - Load:
- 8V ~ 52V
- Operating Temperature:
- -25°C ~ 125°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Through Hole
- Supplier Device Package:
- 24-PowerDIP
L6228N FAQ
1.How can I place an order for L6228N through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for L6228N 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 L6228N reliable?
The price and inventory of L6228N are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for L6228N is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for L6228N?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for L6228N transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for L6228N?
L6228N orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your L6228N 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 L6228N?
For technical support, including L6228N datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your L6228N requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that L6228N is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All L6228N 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 L6228N meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of L6228N?
All L6228N units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with L6228N, 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 L6228N part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for L6228N:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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