Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated TMC2160-TA-T
- Part No.:
- TMC2160-TA-T
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Category:
- Motor Drivers, Controllers
- Package:
- 48-TQFP Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
TMC2160-TA-T.pdf
- Description:
- IC STEPPER MOTOR DRV SPI S/D
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:4,009
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Product details
Overview
TMC2160-TA-T from TRINAMIC Motion Control GmbH & Co. KG is a high-voltage, SPI- and Step/Dir–enabled 2-phase bipolar stepper motor driver IC with integrated gate drivers for external MOSFETs. It delivers up to 1.4 A RMS coil current, operates from 8–60 V DC, supports up to 256 microsteps per full step, and implements StealthChop2™ for silent standstill and SpreadCycle™ for high-dynamic motion-used in high-speed 3D printers and lab automation systems.
For engineers reviewing the TMC2160-TA-T datasheet, TMC2160-TA-T pinout, TMC2160-TA-T application, or TMC2160-TA-T equivalent, key selection criteria include its TQFP48 package with exposed thermal pad, dual chopper mode selection (StealthChop2 vs. SpreadCycle), StallGuard2™ sensorless load detection, CoolStep™ current adaptation, and DcStep™ load-dependent speed control-all validated for industrial motion control where noise, efficiency, and stall resilience are critical.
Technical Context
The TMC2160-TA-T functions as an intelligent gate driver interface between a motion controller (e.g., TMC4361) or host CPU and external H-bridge MOSFETs. Its dual chopper architecture enables runtime switching between StealthChop2 (voltage-mode, zero audible noise at low velocity) and SpreadCycle (current-mode, optimized zero-crossing and resonance suppression).
It integrates dedicated analog sense paths (SRAL/SRAH/SRBL/SRBH) with Kelvin connections for accurate phase current measurement, supports both SPI-configured operation and hardware-pin–configured standalone mode via SPI_MODE, and embeds real-time diagnostics including open-load detection, overtemperature shutdown, and short-circuit protection on all power stages.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Supply Voltage Range | 8–60 V DC motor supply (VS); supports wide-input industrial and battery-powered systems without external DC/DC pre-regulation. |
| Max Coil Current | 1.4 A RMS per phase-set via external sense resistors and register-controlled IRUN; enables compact motor drives without forced air cooling. |
| Microstep Resolution | Up to 256 microsteps/full step-achieved via internal sine-table interpolation (MicroPlyer™), smoothing coarse STEP/DIR inputs for precise positioning. |
| Chopper Modes | StealthChop2™ (audible-noise-free standstill/slow motion) and SpreadCycle™ (high-dynamic, low-resonance current control)-selectable per application phase. |
| Diagnostic Outputs | Two open-drain DIAG pins (DIAG0/DIAG1)-deliver real-time fault flags (overtemp, short, open load) and status signals (stall, standstill) for system-level error handling. |
| Interface Options | SPI (40-bit command/status) + STEP/DIR + single-wire UART-enables flexible integration: full register control, simple motion control, or embedded diagnostics. |
| Thermal Management | Exposed die pad (GND-connected) + internal temperature sensor-supports >2 W continuous dissipation in 7×7 mm² TQFP48 package with proper PCB copper area. |
Pinout & Package
Package: TQFP48 (7×7 mm² body, 9×9 mm² with leads), thermally enhanced with exposed GND pad requiring ≥6 vias to inner GND plane.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| HB1, HA1, HB2, HA2 | High-side gate driver outputs | Drive external N-channel MOSFET gates in half-bridge configuration; require bootstrap capacitors (CB1, CA1, etc.) for high-side floating bias. |
| LB1, LA1, LB2, LA2 | Low-side gate driver outputs | Directly drive low-side N-MOSFET gates; referenced to 12VOUT (internal 11.5 V regulator) for robust gate turn-on. |
| SRAH, SRAL, SRBH, SRBL | Differential current sense inputs | Kelvin-connected to sense resistors for accurate phase A/B current measurement-critical for StallGuard2, CoolStep, and closed-loop torque control. |
| STEP, DIR, DRV_ENN | Digital motion control inputs | Accept 3.3 V/5 V logic; support edge-triggered stepping (rising/falling), direction polarity, and hardware enable/disable of all power stages. |
| DIAG0, DIAG1 | Open-drain diagnostic outputs | Assert active-low faults (e.g., OT, short, open load); require external 47 kΩ pull-up; support interrupt-driven system monitoring. |
| CSN, SCK, SDI, SDO | SPI interface pins | 40-bit full-duplex SPI with automatic command/status framing-enables real-time register read/write for dynamic tuning and diagnostics. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| StealthChop2™ | Eliminates audible motor noise at standstill and low speeds without parameter tuning-reduces mechanical resonance and improves positional stability in office automation and medical devices. |
| StallGuard2™ | Provides real-time, sensorless load measurement using back-EMF analysis-enables stall detection, sensorless homing, and feed-forward torque compensation without external encoders. |
| CoolStep™ | Reduces motor current up to 75% during light loads by adapting IRUN based on StallGuard2 feedback-lowers power dissipation, extends motor life, and eliminates need for heatsinks in compact designs. |
| DcStep™ | Maintains step accuracy under increasing mechanical load by automatically reducing velocity before stall-ensures reliable motion in pumps, valves, and liquid handling without position loss. |
| MicroPlyer™ | Interpolates coarse STEP inputs (e.g., full-step) into smooth 256-microstep motion-improves resolution and reduces vibration in high-precision CNC and 3D printing axes. |
Applications
| High-Speed 3D Printing | Lab Automation |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Precision layer deposition with rapid acceleration/deceleration across X/Y gantries. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Stepper motor driver with real-time current regulation and microstep interpolation. Use Value: StealthChop2™ ensures silent operation during print pauses; DcStep™ prevents missed steps during sudden load changes from extruder pressure spikes. | Use Scenario: Automated pipetting, plate handling, and reagent dispensing in robotic workcells. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Intelligent motor interface enabling sensorless stall detection and adaptive current control. Use Value: StallGuard2™ detects clogged tips or jammed mechanisms; CoolStep™ cuts power consumption by >60% during idle phases-extending uptime in unattended runs. |
| Medical Fluid Pumps | Factory Automation |
Use Scenario: Infusion and dialysis pumps requiring ultra-smooth, pulseless fluid delivery. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-fidelity current-controlled driver with passive braking and freewheeling modes. Use Value: SpreadCycle™ minimizes vibration-induced flow ripple; automatic standstill current reduction (IHOLD) eliminates heat buildup near sensitive biological samples. | Use Scenario: Packaging line conveyors and pick-and-place actuators operating in dusty, thermally demanding environments. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Robust gate driver with integrated diagnostics and thermal protection. Use Value: Dual DIAG outputs trigger PLC alarms on overtemperature or open-load faults; exposed thermal pad sustains >2 W dissipation without derating in enclosed cabinets. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar stepper motor driver applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| TMC2130-TA-T | Lower voltage range (4.75–46 V), integrated MOSFETs (1.4 A), no external gate drivers; same SPI/Step-Dir feature set and register map. | Better suited for space-constrained, lower-power designs (e.g., desktop CNC, portable instruments) where board area and BOM count must be minimized. | Select TMC2130-TA-T when motor current ≤1.4 A and supply voltage <46 V; choose TMC2160-TA-T when driving higher-voltage motors or requiring external MOSFET flexibility. |
| TMC5160-TA-T | Includes integrated motion controller (ramp generator, position tracking); identical gate driver stage and pinout; requires no external MCU for basic motion profiles. | Ideal for standalone motion systems (e.g., ATM cash recyclers, valve actuators) needing S-curve ramps, target positioning, and auto-tuning without host processor overhead. | Choose TMC5160-TA-T when motion sequencing is handled onboard; retain TMC2160-TA-T when motion control resides in host CPU or external motion controller (e.g., TMC4361). |
Compared with TMC2130-TA-T, the TMC2160-TA-T trades integrated power stages for higher voltage capability and external MOSFET scalability; compared with TMC5160-TA-T, it removes the motion controller to reduce cost and latency in systems with centralized trajectory planning-making it optimal for high-voltage, high-flexibility stepper control where intelligence resides upstream.
Availability
TMC2160-TA-T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for high-speed 3D printers, lab automation equipment, medical fluid pumps, and factory packaging machinery requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and traceable sourcing.
Supply support for TMC2160-TA-T 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
TRINAMIC Motion Control GmbH & Co. KG is a German semiconductor company specializing in high-performance motion control ICs, known for advanced stepper and BLDC driver technology with embedded intelligence.
The TMC2160 product line was designed for high-voltage, high-current stepper motor applications demanding silent operation, energy efficiency, and sensorless load monitoring-targeting industrial automation, medical devices, and precision manufacturing equipment.
FAQ
What is the maximum motor supply voltage supported by the TMC2160-TA-T?
The TMC2160-TA-T supports a motor supply voltage (VS) range of 8 V to 60 V DC. This wide input range allows direct integration into industrial 24 V and 48 V systems, as well as battery-powered equipment. Operation above 60 V risks permanent damage; always verify voltage transients and ensure adequate input filtering per Section 25 of the official datasheet. The TMC2160-TA-T maintains full functionality-including StealthChop2™, SpreadCycle™, and StallGuard2™-across this entire range.
Does the TMC2160-TA-T integrate power MOSFETs, or does it require external ones?
The TMC2160-TA-T does not integrate power MOSFETs-it is a gate driver IC designed to control external N-channel MOSFETs in a two-phase H-bridge configuration. It provides eight gate driver outputs (HA1/HA2/HB1/HB2/LA1/LA2/LB1/LB2), bootstrap capacitor interfaces, and dedicated sense inputs for precise current regulation. This architecture enables scalable current handling (beyond 1.4 A) and thermal separation, distinguishing it from fully integrated drivers like the TMC2130-TA-T.
How does StallGuard2™ function in the TMC2160-TA-T, and what design considerations apply?
StallGuard2™ in the TMC2160-TA-T performs sensorless load detection by analyzing back-EMF asymmetry during motor coil commutation. It outputs a 10-bit value proportional to mechanical load, used by CoolStep™ and DcStep™. Accurate operation requires proper PCB layout: Kelvin sense routing for SRAL/SRAH/SRBL/SRBH, minimized loop area, and avoidance of noisy digital traces near analog inputs. The TMC2160-TA-T's StallGuard2™ is calibrated per motor and must be tuned via SGTHRS register for each application.
Can the TMC2160-TA-T operate without an external microcontroller?
Yes-the TMC2160-TA-T supports standalone operation when SPI_MODE is tied low. In this mode, configuration is set via hardware pins (CFG0–CFG6), and motion is controlled solely by STEP/DIR signals. MicroPlyer™ interpolation, automatic standstill current reduction (IHOLD), and basic diagnostics remain active. However, advanced features like real-time StallGuard2™ readback, dynamic chopper switching, or register-based tuning require SPI communication with a host controller.
What thermal management practices are recommended for the TMC2160-TA-T in continuous operation?
For continuous operation, the TMC2160-TA-T requires connection of its exposed die pad to a solid internal GND plane using ≥6 thermal vias (0.3 mm diameter, spaced ≤1 mm apart). A minimum 250 mm² copper area on the top and inner layers is recommended. Avoid placing thermal relief on the pad. Ambient temperature must stay below 85°C; junction temperature must not exceed 150°C. Derating applies above 70°C ambient-consult Section 24.3 (Thermal Characteristics) in the TMC2160-TA-T datasheet for exact θJA values and power dissipation limits.
TMC2160-TA-T Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Series:
- stallGuard™
- Package/Case:
- 48-TQFP Exposed Pad
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Motor Type - Stepper:
- Bipolar
- Motor Type - AC, DC:
- -
- Function:
- Driver - Fully Integrated, Control and Power Stage
- Output Configuration:
- Half Bridge (4)
- Interface:
- SPI, Step/Direction
- Technology:
- Power MOSFET
- Step Resolution:
- 1 ~ 1/256
- Applications:
- Automation Control, Industrial, Medical
- Current - Output:
- 20A
- Voltage - Supply:
- 10V ~ 50V
- Voltage - Load:
- 10V ~ 55V
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 125°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 48-TQFP-EP (7x7)
TMC2160-TA-T FAQ
1.How can I place an order for TMC2160-TA-T through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for TMC2160-TA-T 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 TMC2160-TA-T reliable?
The price and inventory of TMC2160-TA-T are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for TMC2160-TA-T is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for TMC2160-TA-T?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for TMC2160-TA-T transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for TMC2160-TA-T?
TMC2160-TA-T orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your TMC2160-TA-T 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 TMC2160-TA-T?
For technical support, including TMC2160-TA-T datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your TMC2160-TA-T requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that TMC2160-TA-T is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All TMC2160-TA-T 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 TMC2160-TA-T meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of TMC2160-TA-T?
All TMC2160-TA-T units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with TMC2160-TA-T, 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 TMC2160-TA-T part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for TMC2160-TA-T:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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