Allegro MicroSystems UDN2916EBTR

Overview

UDN2916EBTR from Allegro MicroSystems is a dual full-bridge PWM motor driver IC designed to drive both windings of bipolar stepper motors or bidirectionally control two DC motors. It sustains 45 V motor supply, delivers 750 mA continuous output current per bridge, features internal PWM current control with user-selectable 0%/33%/67%/100% current limits, and integrates clamp/flyback diodes and thermal shutdown - used in industrial motion control systems requiring precise winding current regulation.

For engineers reviewing the UDN2916EBTR datasheet, UDN2916EBTR pinout, UDN2916EBTR application, or UDN2916EBTR equivalent, key selection considerations include its 44-pin PLCC (EB) package with internally fused batwing leads, fixed off-time PWM architecture (e.g., 46 μs typical), low saturation voltage (<1.8 V total at 500 mA), and compatibility with microprocessor-controlled half-step and micro-stepping sequences.

Technical Context

The UDN2916EBTR implements two independent H-bridge outputs with integrated source/sink drivers, each controlled by separate PHASE, PWM, and logic-level I₀/I₁ inputs. Current regulation uses an internal comparator, monostable multivibrator, and external RC timing network (RT/CT) to generate fixed off-time current chopping.

Each bridge supports bidirectional current flow up to ±750 mA, with output sustaining voltage rated at 45 V and thermal shutdown activation at 170°C. The device operates across –40°C to +105°C ambient (Q grade), requires no special power-up sequencing, and relies on external sense resistors (RS) for current feedback with trip threshold defined as VREF/10·RS at full scale.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The UDN2916EBTR is supplied in a 44-pin power PLCC (EB package) with internally fused batwing leads on pins 7–17 and 29–39, optimized for enhanced thermal dissipation (θJA = 30°C/W on multilayer board). Its webbed-lead construction maximizes power handling in minimal footprint.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar dual full-bridge motor driver applications.

Compared with UDN2916EBTR, the A4970KLPTR-T offers higher current capacity and embedded diagnostics but adds SPI complexity, while the UC3770DW requires external PWM generation and lacks thermal protection - making UDN2916EBTR a balanced choice for cost-sensitive, thermally robust open-loop stepper control.

Availability

UDN2916EBTR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial motion control, medical device actuation, and automated test equipment requiring stable component supply despite end-of-life status.

Supply support for UDN2916EBTR 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

Allegro MicroSystems is a U.S.-based designer and manufacturer of high-performance magnetic sensors and power ICs, specializing in motion control and energy-efficient power management solutions.

The UDN2916EBTR belongs to Allegro's legacy dual full-bridge motor driver product line, engineered for reliable, thermally robust open-loop stepper and DC motor control in industrial and medical environments.

FAQ

What is the operating temperature range for the UDN2916EBTR?

The UDN2916EBTR is rated for operation from –40°C to +105°C (Q grade), validated across its full electrical specification range. This makes it suitable for demanding environments such as industrial enclosures and medical devices where ambient temperatures exceed standard commercial ranges. Thermal shutdown activates at 170°C junction temperature, providing safety margin beyond the specified ambient limit.

Does the UDN2916EBTR support micro-stepping?

Yes, the UDN2916EBTR supports micro-stepping through analog control of the reference voltage (VREF), which continuously adjusts the current trip threshold. When combined with external RC timing components and microprocessor-driven PHASE/PWM sequencing, it enables smooth sub-step resolution - though full micro-stepping performance depends on external motor inductance and sense resistor accuracy.

Is the UDN2916EBTR still in production?

No, the UDN2916EBTR is a discontinued product per Allegro's official status update. It is no longer manufactured, and samples are unavailable. However, Aetrix Electronics maintains limited legacy inventory for existing production continuity and last-time-buy support for qualified industrial and medical programs.

What package type does the UDN2916EBTR use, and how does it aid thermal performance?

The UDN2916EBTR uses a 44-pin power PLCC (EB package) with 11 internally fused batwing leads on each side (pins 7–17 and 29–39). These fused leads connect directly to internal power ground planes and are designed to be soldered to large PCB copper areas, achieving θJA = 30°C/W - significantly better than standard SOIC or DIP packages for high-current motor drive applications.

Can the UDN2916EBTR drive unipolar stepper motors?

No, the UDN2916EBTR is specifically designed for bipolar stepper motors or dual DC motors. Its dual full-bridge architecture requires four-terminal connection per winding and cannot interface with the center-tapped configuration of unipolar steppers. Attempting to use it with unipolar motors would result in incorrect current paths and potential device damage.