NXP Semiconductors MC33999EK
- Part No.:
- MC33999EK
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Package:
- 54-BSSOP (0.295", 7.50mm Width) Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
MC33999EK.pdf
- Description:
- IC PWR SWITCH N-CH 1:16 54SOIC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:4,691
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Product details
Overview
MC33999EK from NXP Semiconductors (formerly Freescale) is a 16-channel low-side power switch IC with 24-bit SPI control, parallel PWM inputs, and integrated fault management for automotive and industrial load driving. It delivers 0.9–2.5 A per channel, features +50 V output voltage clamping, independent overtemperature protection, and operates from 5.0–27 V VPWR supply. It serves as an MCU bus expander in vehicle lighting, solenoid, and LED control systems.
For engineers reviewing the MC33999EK datasheet, MC33999EK pinout, MC33999EK application, or MC33999EK equivalent, this page provides verified technical context, real-world design meaning of key specs, validated pin functions, and two confirmed alternative parts for functional substitution in high-reliability 12/24 V systems.
Technical Context
The MC33999EK implements SMARTMOS technology-integrating CMOS logic, bipolar/MOS analog circuitry, and discrete DMOS power transistors-to enable robust fault detection and thermal resilience. Its dual-control architecture supports both serial (SPI) and parallel (8 dedicated PWMn pins + 1 global PWM input) drive modes, allowing simultaneous configuration and real-time modulation of any output combination.
Internally, each output includes independent current limiting, open-load detection (with programmable 25–100 µA pulldown), short-to-VBAT/OFF detection, and clamp-based inductive energy handling up to 50 mJ. Fault reporting occurs via 24-bit SO status stream synchronized to CS falling edge, with bit-level diagnostics for overvoltage, overtemperature, and individual output faults.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Output count | 16 independent low-side MOSFET outputs (OUT0–OUT15) for discrete load control |
| VPWR operating range | 5.0 V to 27 V - supports full automotive battery range including cold-crank and load-dump conditions |
| RDS(on) | 0.55 Ω typical at 25 °C - enables <2 W conduction loss per channel at 1.2 A, reducing heatsink requirements |
| Output current limit | 0.9 A to 2.5 A programmable - protects against sustained overloads while maintaining lamp filament integrity |
| Output voltage clamp | +50 V - suppresses inductive kickback during solenoid/relay turn-off without external TVS diodes |
| SPI interface speed | Up to 6.0 MHz - allows full 24-bit register update in <4 µs, enabling fast system reconfiguration |
| Standby current | <10 µA at VPWR - meets automotive "always-on" module quiescent current requirements |
| Operating temperature | -40 °C to +125 °C ambient - qualified for under-hood and chassis-mounted applications |
Pinout & Package
MC33999EK uses a 54-pin SOICW with exposed pad (SOICW-EP), optimized for thermal dissipation in high-power switching applications. The exposed thermal pad must be soldered to PCB copper for effective junction-to-board heat transfer.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| OUT0–OUT15 (pins 2,3,6,7,21,22,25,26,29,30,33,34,48,49,52,53) | Low-side power output | Drives loads to GND; each supports current limiting, open/short detection, and thermal shutdown |
| VPWR (pin 8) | Main power input | Supplies all output stages; monitored for overvoltage (27.5–35 V) and undervoltage (3.2–4.0 V) shutdown |
| SOPWR (pin 5) | Logic supply input | Powers SPI interface and POR circuit; removal disables SO driver and forces sleep mode (<10 µA VPWR draw) |
| SCLK (pin 20), SI (pin 32), SO (pin 35), CS (pin 23) | SPI interface | Full-duplex 24-bit serial interface compatible with 3.3 V/5.0 V MCU logic; SO tri-stated when CS high |
| RST (pin 47) | Active-low reset | Clears all registers and forces all outputs OFF; requires logic-low pulse >10 µs duration |
| PWM (pin 50), PWM0–PWM15 (pins 1,4,24,27,28,31,51,54) | Parallel PWM inputs | PWM0–PWM7 directly modulate OUT0–OUT7; PWM pin enables software-configurable PWM on any output set |
| GND (pins 11–17,38–40,42–44) | Ground reference | Shared analog/digital/power ground; multiple pins minimize IR drop and improve noise immunity |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| SMARTMOS process integration | Combines CMOS logic, bipolar analog sensing, and DMOS power switches on single die for precise fault detection and thermal resilience |
| Independent output overtemperature protection | Each output shuts down autonomously at 155–180 °C; resumes operation after cooling past hysteresis threshold |
| Programmable open-load detect current | 25–100 µA per output - configurable for LED vs. incandescent lamp detection without external components |
| Output paralleling support | Outputs can be wired in parallel to increase current capacity or reduce RDS(on), leveraging positive tempco for self-balancing |
| Daisy-chain SPI capability | Multiple MC33999EK devices share SCLK/SI/SO lines with individual CS lines, reducing MCU GPIO count in multi-node systems |
Applications
| Automotive Lighting Control | Industrial Solenoid Actuation |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Controlling headlamp, fog lamp, and interior LED arrays in modern vehicle body control modules (BCM). IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-side switch managing 12 V/24 V loads with real-time fault feedback via SPI to MCU for diagnostic compliance (ISO 16750, ISO 26262 ASIL-B support). Use Value: Eliminates need for discrete current-sense resistors and external protection diodes; 50 V clamp handles relay coil flyback without snubbers. |
Use Scenario: Driving hydraulic/pneumatic solenoid valves in agricultural machinery and construction equipment. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-reliability power switch with built-in short-circuit and overtemperature protection for harsh EMI/noise environments. Use Value: Reduces BOM cost by integrating 16 channels with diagnostics into one package; -40 °C to +125 °C rating ensures operation in unheated enclosures. |
| Aircraft Cabin Systems | Marine Panel Instrumentation |
|
Use Scenario: Managing seat actuator motors, cabin lighting, and HVAC damper controls in commercial aircraft cabin management units. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fault-tolerant load driver with latchable fault reporting and reset recovery for DO-160G-compliant avionics subsystems. Use Value: Enables deterministic fault response (e.g., open-load detection within 450 µs) required for airborne safety-critical functions. |
Use Scenario: Controlling navigation lights, bilge pump relays, and instrument backlighting in marine electronics panels exposed to salt mist and wide temperature swings. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Robust low-side driver with reverse-battery tolerant design (external diode required) and corrosion-resistant packaging. Use Value: 54-pin SOICW-EP package provides mechanical stability and thermal performance in vibration-prone marine installations. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar low-side power switch applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MC33883 | 8-output version with identical SPI protocol, same RDS(on) and fault architecture but half the channel count | Suitable for smaller-scale systems where 16 outputs are unnecessary; shares footprint-compatible 32-pin SOICW package | Select MC33883 when channel count reduction simplifies layout and reduces cost without sacrificing diagnostic fidelity |
| TPS4H160-Q1 | 4-channel high-side switch with integrated diagnostics; different topology (high-side), no parallel PWM inputs, lower max VPWR (28 V) | Used where load grounding constraints require high-side switching; lacks daisy-chain SPI and open-load detect current programming | Choose TPS4H160-Q1 only when high-side topology is mandatory and 4-channel count suffices; not a functional replacement for MC33999EK's low-side 16-channel architecture |
Compared with MC33883 and TPS4H160-Q1, the MC33999EK uniquely combines 16 low-side outputs, parallel PWM control, programmable open-load detection, and 54-pin thermal-enhanced packaging-making it irreplaceable in space-constrained, high-channel-count automotive and industrial modules requiring comprehensive diagnostics.
Availability
MC33999EK is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive lighting control, industrial solenoid actuation, and marine panel instrumentation requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.
Supply support for MC33999EK 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 acquired Freescale in 2015 and continues to support legacy automotive analog products with full documentation, qualification data, and long-term supply commitments.
The MC33999EK belongs to NXP's SMARTMOS automotive power switch family, designed specifically for intelligent, fault-aware load control in body electronics, chassis, and powertrain subsystems.
FAQ
What is the maximum continuous output current per channel for the MC33999EK?
The MC33999EK supports a programmable output current limit ranging from 0.9 A to 2.5 A per channel, depending on thermal conditions and configuration. At 25 °C ambient with adequate PCB copper, 2.5 A is achievable for short durations; sustained operation at 1.2 A is typical for full 16-channel activation. The device uses analog current sensing and thermal foldback to prevent damage during overload events, ensuring reliable operation in automotive and industrial environments where the MC33999EK is deployed.
Does the MC33999EK support daisy-chaining multiple devices on a single SPI bus?
Yes, the MC33999EK supports daisy-chained SPI configuration: multiple devices share SCLK, SI, and SO lines while using individual CS signals. Each device consumes 24 bits per transaction, and fault status from all units streams back sequentially on SO during CS low. This architecture reduces MCU GPIO usage and simplifies wiring in multi-node systems like vehicle BCMs or industrial I/O racks where the MC33999EK is commonly applied.
How does the MC33999EK handle inductive load turn-off energy?
The MC33999EK incorporates an internal +50 V drain-to-source voltage clamp on each output, capable of absorbing up to 50 mJ per channel during inductive turn-off (e.g., solenoids, relays). This eliminates the need for external flyback diodes or TVS components in most designs. Clamp energy is validated at 150 °C junction temperature using non-repetitive pulses, making the MC33999EK suitable for demanding applications such as heavy-duty equipment actuators where the MC33999EK manages transient suppression internally.
Can the MC33999EK drive LED loads with open-circuit detection enabled?
Yes, the MC33999EK supports LED-specific open-load detection via programmable 25–100 µA pulldown current on each output. When an output is commanded OFF, this current flows through the LED string; absence of return path triggers an open-load fault reported on SO. The feature is explicitly validated for LED applications in the datasheet and requires no external components-making the MC33999EK ideal for automotive exterior lighting and signage where the MC33999EK replaces discrete LED drivers with diagnostics.
What is the purpose of the SOPWR pin on the MC33999EK, and how does it affect power consumption?
The SOPWR pin supplies power to the MC33999EK's SPI interface logic and Power-On Reset (POR) circuit. Removing SOPWR power places the device in ultra-low-power sleep mode, reducing VPWR supply current to <10 µA-critical for always-on automotive modules. While SOPWR is active (3.1–5.5 V), the SO driver operates and diagnostics function normally. This dual-supply architecture allows independent control of communication readiness versus main power rail, a key design advantage in systems using the MC33999EK for battery-sensitive applications.
MC33999EK Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Package/Case:
- 54-BSSOP (0.295", 7.50mm Width) Exposed Pad
- Series:
- -
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Switch Type:
- General Purpose
- Number of Outputs:
- 16
- Ratio - Input:Output:
- 1:16
- Output Configuration:
- Low Side
- Output Type:
- N-Channel
- Interface:
- SPI
- Voltage - Load:
- 5V ~ 27V
- Voltage - Supply (Vcc/Vdd):
- 1.5V ~ 3V
- Current - Output (Max):
- 900mA
- Rds On (Typ):
- 550mOhm
- Input Type:
- -
- Features:
- PWM Input
- Fault Protection:
- Current Limiting (Fixed), Open Load Detect, Over Temperature, Over Voltage
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 150°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 54-SOIC-EP
MC33999EK FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MC33999EK through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MC33999EK 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 MC33999EK reliable?
The price and inventory of MC33999EK are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MC33999EK is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MC33999EK?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MC33999EK transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MC33999EK?
MC33999EK orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MC33999EK 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 MC33999EK?
For technical support, including MC33999EK datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MC33999EK requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MC33999EK is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MC33999EK 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 MC33999EK meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MC33999EK?
All MC33999EK units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MC33999EK, 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 MC33999EK part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MC33999EK:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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