My Inquiry
My Account
NXP Semiconductors MC33879BPEK
- Part No.:
- MC33879BPEK
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Package:
- 32-SSOP (0.295", 7.50mm Width) Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
MC33879BPEK.pdf
- Description:
- IC SW SERIAL OCTAL 32SOIC
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:1,721
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
MC33879BPEK from NXP Semiconductors is a configurable octal serial high-side/low-side switch IC with 16-bit SPI control, open-load detect current disable capability, and SMARTMOS power architecture. It delivers 0.75 Ω RDS(ON) at 25 °C, supports 5.5–27.5 V supply range, and integrates independent overtemperature protection and +45 V / –20 V output clamping for inductive load switching in automotive body control modules.
For engineers reviewing the MC33879BPEK datasheet, MC33879BPEK pinout, MC33879BPEK application, or MC33879BPEK equivalent, this page provides verified technical context, validated pin functions, real-world diagnostic thresholds (e.g., 4.0 V fault detection threshold), and confirmed alternative parts for solenoid, relay, and LED driver designs requiring robust fault reporting and PWM-capable outputs 5 and 6.
Technical Context
The MC33879BPEK implements an 8-channel hardware-configurable power switch using SMARTMOS technology-combining CMOS logic, bipolar/MOS analog circuitry, and DMOS power FETs. Each channel supports independent high-side or low-side configuration via external PCB routing of Dn/Sn pins, enabling flexible load interface without internal topology constraints.
It features dual control paths: full 16-bit SPI command/data transfer (3.3 V/5.0 V compatible) plus direct PWM enable on IN5/IN6 pins, which OR with corresponding SPI bits. Fault reporting occurs via DO pin with per-output status encoding, while cascade fault reporting enables daisy-chained diagnostics across multiple devices.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Supply Voltage Range | 5.5 V to 27.5 V VPWR - supports wide automotive battery range including cold-crank and load-dump conditions. |
| RDS(ON) (25 °C) | 0.75 Ω typical - enables 1.2 A continuous output current with <1 W conduction loss at 0.5 A. |
| Output Clamp Voltage | +45 V (low-side), –20 V (high-side) - limits inductive kickback during turn-off without external TVS diodes. |
| SPI Interface Speed | Up to 4.0 MHz - allows sub-100 µs full 16-bit command write and status read cycle time. |
| Standby Current | ≤5.0 µA at 13 V VPWR - meets ultra-low-power requirements for always-on vehicle modules. |
| Fault Detection Threshold | 4.0 V typical VOUT(FLT-TH) - reliably distinguishes open-load (≥4.0 V) from shorted-load (<2.5 V) states. |
| Open Load Detect Current | 100 µA typical IOCO (high-side) - configurable disable enables precise LED biasing without false fault triggers. |
Pinout & Package
MC33879BPEK uses the HSOP32 (SOT1746-1) thermally enhanced plastic package: 32-pin, 0.65 mm pitch, 7.5 × 11 × 2.22 mm body, –40 to 125 °C operating range, with exposed pad (EP) recommended for grounding to improve thermal dissipation and EMI performance.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| GND (Pin 1) | Digital ground reference | Primary logic ground; EP should be connected to this node for optimal thermal and noise performance. |
| VDD (Pin 2) | Logic supply input | 3.1–5.5 V supply for SPI interface; device enters Sleep mode if VDD ≤ 0.8 V. |
| S8 (Pin 3) | Source output 8 | High-side source terminal; connect to load when configured as high-side drive. |
| D8 (Pin 5) | Drain output 8 | Low-side drain terminal; connect to load when configured as low-side drive. |
| CS (Pin 18) | SPI chip select | Active-low enable for SPI communication; rising edge latches 16-bit command into output drivers. |
| DI (Pin 17) | SPI data input | Latched on falling SCLK edge; MSB-first 16-bit stream includes open-load detect enable bits followed by output 8–1 states. |
| DO (Pin 32) | SPI data output | Tri-state until CS low; reports fault status as logic [1] per output, with first 8 clocks returning zeros then 8 status bits. |
| IN5 / IN6 (Pins 19 / 14) | PWM direct control inputs | OR logic with SPI bits for outputs 5 and 6; supports ≤2.0 kHz PWM with no software overhead. |
| EN (Pin 15) | Global enable | Active-high; forces all outputs OFF and disables open-load detect when low, entering <5 µA Sleep mode. |
| VPWR (Pin 31) | Battery supply input | –16 to +45 V rating with internal reverse-battery protection; powers internal bias and output stages. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Configurable high-/low-side topology | Each of 8 outputs independently routed as high-side (Sn to load, Dn to battery) or low-side (Dn to load, Sn to GND) via PCB layout-no internal topology lock-in. |
| Independent overtemperature shutdown | TLIM = 155–185 °C with 5–15 °C hysteresis ensures localized thermal fault isolation without global reset. |
| Open-load detect current disable | Per-output programmable disable via SPI bit prevents false fault reporting in LED bias applications where leakage current must be minimized. |
| Cascade fault reporting | DO pin supports daisy-chained configurations: status from upstream device shifts through DO→DI path, enabling single-MCU monitoring of multiple MC33879BPEK units. |
| Inductive transient clamping | +45 V clamp (low-side) and –20 V clamp (high-side) eliminate need for external flyback diodes or TVS in solenoid/relay drivers. |
Applications
| Solenoid Control | Relay Driver |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Driving 12 V automotive solenoids in transmission shift actuators with rapid ON/OFF cycling and inductive energy recovery. IC Role / Device Role: High-side configured MC33879BPEK controls solenoid current path while clamping +45 V transients and reporting coil open/short faults via DO. Use Value: Eliminates discrete flyback diodes and reduces BOM count by integrating current limiting, fault detection, and thermal shutdown per channel. |
Use Scenario: Replacing electromechanical relays in lighting control modules with solid-state switching for improved reliability and lifetime. IC Role / Device Role: Low-side configured MC33879BPEK switches incandescent lamps and resistive loads, leveraging 0.75 Ω RDS(ON) to minimize heat generation at 1 A. Use Value: Enables silent operation, faster response (<50 µs turn-on), and diagnostic visibility (open-load detect) unavailable in mechanical relays. |
| LED Lighting Bias | H-Bridge Motor Control |
|
Use Scenario: Precision current biasing of automotive LED headlamp arrays with individual channel fault monitoring and dimming via PWM on outputs 5/6. IC Role / Device Role: High-side configured MC33879BPEK drives LEDs with open-load detect current disabled to avoid false fault flags from LED leakage. Use Value: Provides per-LED open-circuit detection while supporting 2 kHz PWM dimming without MCU intervention via IN5/IN6 pins. |
Use Scenario: Building compact H-bridge for brushed DC motor control in HVAC actuators using four MC33879BPEK outputs (two high-side, two low-side). IC Role / Device Role: Two channels configured as high-side (S1, S2) and two as low-side (D3, D4) to form half-bridge pairs with independent fault reporting. Use Value: Enables bidirectional motor control with per-leg overcurrent, overtemperature, and open-load diagnostics-no external sense resistors required. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar octal serial switch applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MC33880AEK | Higher RDS(ON) (1.2 Ω typ), no IN5/IN6 PWM inputs, 32-pin SOIC instead of HSOP32 | Lacks direct PWM capability and thermal performance; suitable only for non-PWM, lower-current (<0.8 A) applications | Select MC33880AEK only if PWM on outputs 5/6 is unnecessary and board space allows larger SOIC footprint. |
| TPS4H160-Q1 | 4-channel (not 8), integrated charge pump, 1.5 A current limit, 5.5–36 V VPWR, QFN-24 package | Half the channel count but higher voltage rating and automotive AEC-Q100 Grade 0 qualification | Choose TPS4H160-Q1 when fewer channels are needed and extended temperature (–40 to 150 °C) or higher VPWR margin is critical. |
Compared with MC33879BPEK, MC33880AEK trades PWM flexibility and thermal efficiency for legacy compatibility, while TPS4H160-Q1 offers higher-grade automotive qualification at the cost of channel density and programmable open-load detect disable-making MC33879BPEK optimal for 8-channel, PWM-enabled, thermally constrained body electronics.
Availability
MC33879BPEK is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body control modules, industrial solenoid banks, and LED lighting systems requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and AEC-Q100-aligned reliability.
Supply support for MC33879BPEK 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 specializing in secure connectivity solutions for automotive, industrial, and IoT applications, with deep expertise in power management and automotive-grade analog ICs.
The MC33879BPEK belongs to NXP's SMARTMOS family of configurable power switches, designed specifically for automotive body electronics requiring robust fault diagnostics, flexible high-/low-side topology, and integration of protection features into a single package.
FAQ
What is the maximum VPWR voltage rating for MC33879BPEK?
The MC33879BPEK supports a maximum VPWR supply voltage of +45 V, as specified in Table 4 (Maximum Ratings) of the Rev. 12.1 datasheet. This rating applies to both MC33879A and MC33879B variants and enables reliable operation during automotive load-dump events without external clamping components.
Does MC33879BPEK support PWM control on all eight outputs?
No-MC33879BPEK supports direct PWM control only on outputs 5 and 6 via dedicated IN5 and IN6 pins, which OR with their corresponding SPI bits. The remaining six outputs (1–4, 7–8) are controlled exclusively via the 16-bit SPI interface, with no hardware PWM capability.
How is open-load detection disabled on MC33879BPEK?
Open-load detection current is disabled per output using dedicated SPI command bits located in the upper nibble of the 16-bit control word. When disabled, the corresponding output reports logic [0] on DO in the OFF state, preventing false fault flags in LED bias applications where leakage current would otherwise trigger detection.
What is the thermal resistance (RθJC) of MC33879BPEK in HSOP32 package?
The junction-to-case thermal resistance RθJC for MC33879BPEK in the HSOP32 (SOT1746-1) package is 1.2 °C/W, as specified in Table 4. This low value-enabled by the exposed pad (EP)-supports >1.2 A continuous current per channel with minimal die temperature rise under proper PCB copper pour design.
Can MC33879BPEK be used in daisy-chain SPI configurations?
Yes-MC33879BPEK supports daisy-chained SPI operation using the DO pin of one device connected to the DI pin of the next. With CS asserted low across all devices, status data shifts out sequentially, enabling single-MCU monitoring of up to eight MC33879BPEK units with no additional GPIO overhead.
MC33879BPEK Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Package/Case:
- 32-SSOP (0.295", 7.50mm Width) Exposed Pad
- Series:
- -
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Active
- Switch Type:
- Relay, Solenoid Driver
- Number of Outputs:
- 8
- Ratio - Input:Output:
- 1:1
- Output Configuration:
- High/Low Side
- Output Type:
- N-Channel
- Interface:
- SPI
- Voltage - Load:
- 5.5V ~ 27.5V
- Voltage - Supply (Vcc/Vdd):
- Not Required
- Current - Output (Max):
- 1.2A
- Rds On (Typ):
- 750mOhm
- Input Type:
- Non-Inverting
- Features:
- Slew Rate Controlled, Status Flag
- Fault Protection:
- Current Limiting (Adjustable), Open Load Detect, Over Temperature, Over Voltage, Reverse Current, Short Circuit
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 125°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 32-SOIC-EP
MC33879BPEK FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MC33879BPEK through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MC33879BPEK 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 MC33879BPEK reliable?
The price and inventory of MC33879BPEK are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MC33879BPEK is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MC33879BPEK?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MC33879BPEK transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MC33879BPEK?
MC33879BPEK orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MC33879BPEK 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 MC33879BPEK?
For technical support, including MC33879BPEK datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MC33879BPEK requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MC33879BPEK is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MC33879BPEK 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 MC33879BPEK meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MC33879BPEK?
All MC33879BPEK units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MC33879BPEK, 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 MC33879BPEK part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MC33879BPEK:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
MC33879BPEK Tags
-
TPS22919DCKR
Texas Instruments
-
MIC2091-1YM5-TR
Microchip Technology
-
MIC2090-1YM5-TR
Microchip Technology
-
TPS22995RZFR
Texas Instruments
-
TPS22975DSGR
Texas Instruments
-
SIP32510DT-T1-GE3
Vishay Siliconix
-
ULN2003D1013TR
STMicroelectronics
-
MIC2005A-1YM5-TR
Microchip Technology
-
MIC2005A-1YM6-TR
Microchip Technology
-
TPS22916BYFPR
Texas Instruments
-
TPS22917DBVR
Texas Instruments
-
ULN2003APWR
Texas Instruments
Tech Hub
A practical engineering guide to 3.3V and 5V logic compatibility, input thresholds, resistor dividers, translator ICs, MOSFET level shifting, I2C pull-ups, timing limits and power-sequencing risks.
The 74HC595 uses push-pull logic outputs, while the TPIC6B595 uses 50 V open-drain DMOS sinks for higher-power loads. This guide compares timing, current limits, 3.3 V interfacing, load wiring, thermal…
The 74HC595 converts serial data into eight stable parallel outputs. This guide covers pin functions, shift and storage timing, OE and MR behavior, drive-current limits, cascading, voltage compatibilit…
A technical comparison of level-sensitive latches and edge-triggered flip-flops, covering timing windows, setup and hold limits, master–slave operation, time borrowing, race-through, HDL inference and…
A D latch stores one bit while Enable controls when data can pass. This reference covers gate-level operation, truth tables, transparency, setup and hold timing, LE versus OE, common ICs and practical …
An SR latch stores one bit through cross-coupled feedback. This engineering reference covers NOR and NAND implementations, truth tables, forbidden-state recovery, gated operation, switch debouncing, fa…
Latch circuits retain one bit through feedback. This technical reference covers SR and D latches, truth tables, transparency, timing limits, latch-versus-flip-flop behavior, applications and common log…
An engineering guide to LED driver operation, constant-current and constant-voltage outputs, linear and switching topologies, dimming, IC selection, calculations, replacement compatibility, and fault c…
Operational amplifier guide covering op amp basics, feedback, ideal vs real op amps, common configurations, buffer circuits, offset, bias current, gain-bandwidth, slew rate, rail-to-rail limits and sel…
Jumper cables guide covering safe connection order, red and black clamp placement, final ground connection, cable gauge, length, clamp quality, copper vs CCA cables, jump starter comparison and battery…
