NXP Semiconductors MC33879EKR2

Overview

MC33879EKR2 from NXP Semiconductors is a configurable octal serial high-side/low-side switch IC with SPI interface, 0.75 Ω typical R_DS(ON) at 25 °C, ±45 V/–20 V output clamping, and independent overtemperature protection. It drives inductive, incandescent, or LED loads in automotive body control modules and industrial actuators.

For engineers reviewing the MC33879EKR2 datasheet, MC33879EKR2 pinout, MC33879EKR2 application, or MC33879EKR2 equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical specs, validated HSOP32 package mapping, confirmed SPI timing (4 MHz max), real open-load detection thresholds (65–160 µA high-side), and two production-validated alternative parts for load-switching designs requiring fault reporting and PWM-capable outputs 5 & 6.

Technical Context

The MC33879EKR2 integrates SMARTMOS technology-CMOS logic, bipolar/MOS analog circuitry, and DMOS power MOSFETs-enabling hardware-configurable high-side or low-side drive per channel. Its 16-bit SPI interface supports 3.3 V/5.0 V logic levels and provides bidirectional fault reporting via DO pin with first-in-first-out MSB-first protocol.

Each of the eight outputs features independent current limiting (0.6–1.2 A), open-load detect current disable capability, and dedicated diagnostics including short-circuit detection with automatic retry. The device incorporates internal reverse-battery protection on VPWR, loss-of-ground/supply immunity, and programmable sleep mode triggered by EN or VDD ≤ 0.8 V.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MC33879EKR2 is housed in an HSOP32 (SOT1746-1) thermally enhanced plastic package: 32-terminal, 0.65 mm pitch, 7.5 × 11 × 2.22 mm body, operating from –40 °C to +125 °C. 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 MC33879EKR2, MC33883EKR2 offers extended voltage tolerance and ESD robustness at the cost of higher conduction loss, while TPS27082LRTJR trades integration and diagnostics for lower R_DS(ON) and simpler control - making MC33879EKR2 optimal for compact, fault-aware multi-load systems.

Availability

MC33879EKR2 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body electronics, industrial actuator control, LED lighting management, and brush DC motor applications requiring stable component supply across extended temperature and voltage ranges.

Supply support for MC33879EKR2 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 reliability.

The MC33879EKR2 belongs to NXP's SMARTMOS family of configurable power switches, designed specifically for automotive body electronics and industrial control systems requiring integrated diagnostics, low quiescent current, and robust transient protection.

FAQ

What is the maximum SPI clock frequency supported by MC33879EKR2?

The MC33879EKR2 supports a maximum SPI clock frequency of 4.0 MHz, as specified in its dynamic electrical characteristics. This allows rapid configuration and fault-status polling without compromising signal integrity. All SPI timing parameters-including tLEAD, tLAG, and tVALID-are guaranteed within this range. The MC33879EKR2 maintains full functionality and fault-reporting accuracy at this speed under standard operating conditions (–40 °C to +125 °C, VPWR = 5.5–26.5 V).

How does MC33879EKR2 handle open-load detection for LED applications?

The MC33879EKR2 provides programmable open-load detection current that can be disabled per output for LED biasing. In high-side configuration at VPWR = 16 V, the open-load detection current ranges from 65 µA (typical) to 160 µA (max). When disabled via SPI command, the output reports logic [0] in the off state regardless of load condition-preventing false fault flags during LED dimming or standby. This feature eliminates external sense resistors in LED driver designs.

Can MC33879EKR2 drive both high-side and low-side loads simultaneously?

Yes, MC33879EKR2 supports mixed topology: any output can be independently configured as high-side (source pin Sx connected to load) or low-side (drain pin Dx connected to load). For example, S1/D1 and S2/D2 can form an H-bridge for bidirectional motor control, while remaining outputs drive solenoids or lamps. Each channel retains independent diagnostics and current limiting, and the device prevents shoot-through via SPI sequencing control-not hardware interlock.

What thermal performance can be expected from MC33879EKR2 in HSOP32 package?

In the HSOP32 (SOT1746-1) package, MC33879EKR2 achieves a junction-to-case thermal resistance (R_θJC) of 1.2 °C/W when the exposed pad (EP) is soldered to PCB ground. With proper copper pour and thermal vias, it sustains continuous 0.35 A per channel at 125 °C ambient. The device triggers overtemperature shutdown between 155 °C and 185 °C junction temperature, with 5–15 °C hysteresis to prevent oscillation.

Does MC33879EKR2 require external components for reverse-battery protection?

No, MC33879EKR2 includes internal reverse-battery protection on the VPWR pin, eliminating the need for external diodes or MOSFETs. This protection operates across the full rated VPWR range (–16 V to +40 V) and remains functional during sleep mode. The IC also ensures that loss of ground or supply will not energize loads or damage internal circuitry-providing inherent fail-safe behavior critical for automotive applications.