NXP Semiconductors MC33879APEKR2

Overview

MC33879APEKR2 from NXP Semiconductors is a configurable octal serial high-side/low-side switch IC with 16-bit SPI control, open-load detection current disable capability, and independent overtemperature protection. It delivers R_DS(ON) = 0.75 Ω (typ) at 25 °C, supports VPWR from 5.5 V to 27.5 V, and integrates SMARTMOS technology for driving incandescent lamps, solenoids, and relays in automotive body electronics.

For engineers reviewing the MC33879APEKR2 datasheet, MC33879APEKR2 pinout, MC33879APEKR2 application, or MC33879APEKR2 equivalent, this page provides verified functional identity, validated HSOP32 package mapping, confirmed 32-pin terminal roles, exact SPI timing compliance (4 MHz), and two rigorously validated alternative parts with documented technical and application differences.

Technical Context

The MC33879APEKR2 implements eight independently configurable DMOS output drivers-each selectable as high-side or low-side-controlled via a 16-bit SPI interface compatible with both 3.3 V and 5.0 V logic. Its internal architecture includes CMOS logic, bipolar/MOS analog circuitry, and integrated charge pump for gate drive.

It features hardware-configurable open-load detection current (enabling/disabling per output), programmable fault reporting via DO pin, and dual-level protection: ±45 V clamp (low-side) / –20 V clamp (high-side) during inductive switching, plus independent thermal shutdown at 155–185 °C.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MC33879APEKR2 is housed in an HSOP32 (SOT1746-1) thermally enhanced plastic package: 32-terminal, 0.65 mm pitch, 7.5 × 11 × 2.22 mm body, –40 °C to +125 °C ambient rating. Exposed pad (EP) must be connected to GND for optimal thermal performance.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar octal serial switch applications.

Compared with MC33879APEKR2, MC33880AEK offers higher integration density but sacrifices PWM flexibility and open-load current control, while TPS27082LARVYR provides simpler interface compatibility at the expense of automotive robustness and configurability.

Availability

MC33879APEKR2 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body electronics, industrial actuator control, and commercial vehicle lighting systems requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for MC33879APEKR2 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

NXP Semiconductors is a global semiconductor leader focused on automotive, industrial, and IoT applications, with deep expertise in power management and automotive-grade analog/mixed-signal ICs.

The MC33879 product line was designed specifically for automotive body electronics, delivering configurable high-/low-side switching, robust fault diagnostics, and integrated protection for 12 V/24 V vehicle platforms.

FAQ

What is the maximum recommended SPI clock frequency for MC33879APEKR2?

The MC33879APEKR2 supports a maximum SPI clock frequency of 4.0 MHz, as specified in its dynamic electrical characteristics. This value is guaranteed by design and validated using 5.5 V/3.1 V SPI interface test conditions. Operating above this frequency may result in invalid data capture or missed fault reporting on the DO pin. The MC33879APEKR2 datasheet confirms that production test equipment uses 4.16 MHz, confirming margin within specification.

Does MC33879APEKR2 support both high-side and low-side configurations for all eight outputs?

Yes, MC33879APEKR2 supports individual hardware configuration of all eight outputs as either high-side or low-side switches. Each output pair (e.g., D1/S1) is internally isolated, allowing D1 to connect to battery and S1 to load (high-side), or D1 to load and S1 to GND (low-side). This configurability is implemented externally via PCB layout - no register programming is required to set topology.

How does the open-load detection current disable feature work in MC33879APEKR2?

In MC33879APEKR2, open-load detection current is disabled per output via dedicated bits in the 16-bit SPI command frame. When disabled, the output stops sourcing the ~80 µA diagnostic current during OFF state, preventing false open-load faults when driving high-impedance loads like LEDs. This function is explicitly documented in the "On/Off control of open load detect current (LED application)" feature list and confirmed in Table 2 for MC33879A variants.

What is the purpose of the IN5 and IN6 pins on MC33879APEKR2?

The IN5 and IN6 pins on MC33879APEKR2 provide direct hardware PWM control for outputs 5 and 6, respectively. They are OR-ed with their corresponding SPI control bits, enabling real-time override without SPI transaction overhead. Each supports PWM frequencies up to 2.0 kHz and is intended for dynamic load control such as lamp dimming or motor speed regulation - a capability not available on other outputs.

Is the exposed pad (EP) on MC33879APEKR2 electrically connected or thermal-only?

The exposed pad (EP) on MC33879APEKR2 serves both thermal and electrical functions: it is internally connected to GND and must be soldered to the PCB ground plane. The datasheet states that while the device operates with EP floating, performance - especially thermal resistance (R_θJC = 1.2 °C/W) - is guaranteed only when EP is terminated to Pin 1 (GND) and system ground. Leaving it unconnected degrades thermal performance and risks reliability under sustained load.