NXP Semiconductors MC33486DH

Overview

MC33486DH from Freescale Semiconductor is a dual high-side N-channel MOSFET switch IC for automotive H-bridge motor control, featuring 15 mΩ max R_DS(on) per channel at 25°C, 10 A nominal DC current, integrated low-side gate drivers (GLS1/GLS2), and overvoltage shutdown at 28 V. It directly interfaces with microcontrollers via CMOS-compatible IN1/IN2 inputs and supports PWM up to 30 kHz.

For engineers reviewing the MC33486DH datasheet, MC33486DH pinout, MC33486DH application, or MC33486DH equivalent, key selection considerations include its D2PAK package with thermal tab (pin 21 = V_BAT), current recopy ratio of 1/3700 for load monitoring, open-drain ST fault reporting, and self-adjusted switching speed mode for EMC reduction.

Technical Context

The MC33486DH integrates two independent high-side power switches with internal current sensing, thermal shutdown (150°C trip with 10°C hysteresis), and short-to-ground/short-to-V_BAT protection per channel. Its low-side gate driver block actively controls external N-channel FETs and clamps output to 14 V to prevent gate overvoltage.

Switching behavior adapts dynamically: high-speed mode activates for input edge intervals <280 µs (≈2 kHz, 50% duty), delivering 10 V/µs positive slew rate; low-speed mode engages above that threshold, limiting slew to 1.0 V/µs to reduce EMI. The Cur R pin provides a ground-referenced current mirror signal with ±15% accuracy across 4–8 A load range.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The MC33486DH uses a thermally enhanced D2PAK (CASE 979-04 / HSOP20) package with exposed metal tab (pin 21) electrically connected to V_BAT and serving as primary thermal path to PCB copper.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar dual high-side switch applications.

Compared with MC33486DH, MC33883 requires additional external components to achieve full H-bridge control, while TPS4H160-Q1 trades analog current sensing and integrated gate driving for digital configurability and smaller footprint - neither offers the same combination of 10 A capability, current recopy, and embedded low-side drive in a single D2PAK package.

Availability

MC33486DH is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive power window, seat actuation, roof panel, and heated seat applications requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and AEC-Q100-compliant performance.

Supply support for MC33486DH 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

Freescale Semiconductor (now part of NXP Semiconductors) is a global leader in automotive and industrial semiconductor solutions, specializing in robust, AEC-Q100-qualified power management ICs.

The MC33486DH belongs to Freescale's automotive H-bridge driver family, engineered specifically for DC motor control in harsh vehicle environments with integrated protection, diagnostics, and thermal resilience.

FAQ

What is the function of the TAB pin on the MC33486DH?

The TAB pin (pin 21) on the MC33486DH is electrically connected to V_BAT and serves as the primary thermal conduction path from the MOSFET die to the PCB copper plane. It must be soldered to a large copper area (≥10 cm² recommended) to maintain junction temperature below 150°C under 10 A load. This dual-role design eliminates separate power and thermal vias while ensuring reliable operation in automotive under-hood environments.

How does the MC33486DH implement overvoltage protection?

The MC33486DH monitors V_BAT and triggers overvoltage shutdown when voltage exceeds 27–31 V (typical 28 V). Upon detection, it forces both low-side switches ON (brake-to-ground mode) and clamps GLS1/GLS2 outputs to 14 V to protect external FET gates. The ST pin asserts low to signal the fault. Recovery occurs automatically once V_BAT drops below the hysteresis threshold (26.85 V), restoring normal operation without MCU intervention.

Can the MC33486DH drive a motor without external low-side MOSFETs?

No, the MC33486DH cannot drive a motor in full H-bridge mode without external low-side MOSFETs. It contains only dual high-side N-channel switches (OUT1/OUT2) and dedicated gate drivers (GLS1/GLS2) designed to control external N-FETs. The device relies on those external FETs to complete the current path to ground. Attempting to operate without them results in incomplete bridge functionality and potential fault conditions.

What is the purpose of the Cur R pin on the MC33486DH?

The Cur R pin on the MC33486DH delivers a current mirror signal equal to (I_OUT1 + I_OUT2) / 3700, enabling MCU ADC measurement of total high-side load current. An external resistor converts this current to a ground-referenced voltage. The pin includes internal clamping (6–11 V) to protect the ADC input and maintains accuracy within ±15% across 4–8 A, supporting obstruction detection and thermal derating in automotive motor applications.

How does the MC33486DH handle thermal shutdown events?

When either high-side MOSFET reaches 150–175°C, the MC33486DH immediately disables both OUT1 and OUT2, forces both low-sides ON (brake-to-ground), and pulls the ST pin low. The device remains latched in this safe state until junction temperature falls by at least 10°C (hysteresis), at which point normal operation resumes automatically. This dual-channel shutdown prevents localized overheating and ensures motor stoppage during thermal faults.