NXP Semiconductors MC33879TEKR2

Overview

MC33879TEKR2 from NXP Semiconductors is a configurable octal high-side/low-side serial switch IC with 16-bit SPI control, open-load detection current disable capability, and SMARTMOS power architecture. It delivers 0.75 Ω typical R_DS(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 MC33879TEKR2 datasheet, MC33879TEKR2 pinout, MC33879TEKR2 application, or MC33879TEKR2 equivalent, this page provides verified functional identity, HSOP32 package mapping, validated SPI timing (4 MHz max), confirmed open-load detection thresholds (65–160 µA high-side), and real-world diagnostic reporting behavior via DO pin - all directly extracted from NXP's Rev. 12.1 product data sheet.

Technical Context

The MC33879TEKR2 implements eight independently configurable DMOS output drivers controlled via a 16-bit SPI interface compatible with both 3.3 V and 5.0 V logic levels. Each output supports hardware-selectable high-side or low-side drive configuration, with two outputs (D5/S5 and D6/S6) additionally controllable via dedicated PWM inputs (IN5/IN6) for dynamic load modulation up to 2.0 kHz.

Its SMARTMOS architecture integrates CMOS logic, bipolar/MOS analog circuitry, and DMOS power transistors to enable low standby current (≤5.0 µA at 13 V VPWR), internal reverse-battery protection on VPWR, cascade fault reporting, and output-specific diagnostics including short-circuit detect, open-load detection, and independent thermal shutdown at 155–185 °C.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MC33879TEKR2 is housed in an HSOP32 (SOT1746-1) thermally enhanced plastic package measuring 7.5 mm × 11 mm × 2.22 mm with 0.65 mm pitch and operating from –40 °C to +125 °C. The exposed pad (EP) must be connected to GND for optimal thermal performance and EMI suppression.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MC33879TEKR2, MC33883GEKR2 trades PWM flexibility for lower cost and simpler configuration, while TPS27082LRTJR offers higher per-channel current but requires full system-level redesign to replicate serial control, diagnostics, and thermal management.

Availability

MC33879TEKR2 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body electronics, industrial actuator control, and LED lighting systems requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and traceable sourcing.

Supply support for MC33879TEKR2 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 secure connectivity solutions for automotive, industrial, and IoT applications, with deep expertise in power management and automotive-grade analog ICs.

The MC33879TEKR2 belongs to NXP's SMARTMOS family of configurable power switches, designed specifically for automotive body control units and industrial I/O modules requiring robust fault diagnostics, wide supply range, and high reliability under harsh environmental conditions.

FAQ

What is the maximum SPI clock frequency supported by the MC33879TEKR2?

The MC33879TEKR2 supports a maximum SPI clock frequency of 4.0 MHz, as specified in its dynamic electrical characteristics table. This allows rapid command loading and fault status readback without violating setup/hold timing constraints. All SPI timing parameters-including tDI(SU), tDI(HOLD), and tVALID-are validated at this rate. The MC33879TEKR2 maintains reliable communication even under temperature extremes (–40 °C to +125 °C ambient) and supply variations (5.5–27.5 V).

How does the MC33879TEKR2 handle open-load detection in LED applications?

The MC33879TEKR2 provides programmable open-load detection current disable per output, which is essential for LED applications where inherent diode leakage can trigger false faults. When disabled, the open-load sensing current is turned off, eliminating erroneous fault reporting while preserving all other protection features. This function is controlled via dedicated SPI bits and applies independently to each of the eight outputs in the MC33879TEKR2.

Can the MC33879TEKR2 drive inductive loads safely without external clamping components?

Yes, the MC33879TEKR2 integrates internal voltage clamps: +45 V for low-side configurations and –20 V for high-side configurations. These clamps actively suppress inductive kickback during turn-off, protecting both the IC and downstream circuitry. Measured clamp energy capability is 50 mJ at 150 °C junction temperature, making external TVS diodes unnecessary for most automotive solenoid and relay applications within the device's current and thermal limits.

What is the purpose of the IN5 and IN6 pins on the MC33879TEKR2?

The IN5 and IN6 pins on the MC33879TEKR2 provide hardware-level PWM control for outputs 5 and 6, respectively. They are OR-gated with the corresponding SPI command bits, allowing direct microcontroller PWM signals to override SPI commands. This enables dynamic dimming or motor speed control up to 2.0 kHz without consuming MCU SPI bandwidth or requiring constant register updates. The MC33879TEKR2 retains full fault reporting and protection during PWM operation.

Does the MC33879TEKR2 include reverse-battery protection?

Yes, the MC33879TEKR2 includes internal reverse-battery protection on the VPWR pin, as explicitly stated in Section 1 (General description) and Table 3 (Pin definitions). This protection prevents damage when the battery is connected with reversed polarity, a critical requirement for automotive applications. The feature operates independently of EN or VDD states and remains active across the full operating temperature range (–40 °C to +125 °C).