Texas Instruments ULQ2004ATDRG4Q1

Overview

ULQ2004ATDRG4Q1 from Texas Instruments is an automotive-qualified 7-channel high-voltage Darlington transistor array with 10.5kΩ input base resistors, 50V collector-emitter rating, 500mA per-channel sink capability, and integrated common-cathode clamp diodes for inductive load switching - used in relay, stepper motor, and lamp driver circuits in vehicle body control modules.

For engineers reviewing the ULQ2004ATDRG4Q1 datasheet, ULQ2004ATDRG4Q1 pinout, ULQ2004ATDRG4Q1 application, or ULQ2004ATDRG4Q1 equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical specs, SOIC-16 package details, real-world drive configurations, thermal derating guidance, and two validated alternative parts for automotive-grade discrete power interface design.

Technical Context

The ULQ2004ATDRG4Q1 implements seven independent NPN Darlington pairs with internal 10.5kΩ series base resistors optimized for direct interfacing with 6V–15V CMOS logic. Each channel provides open-collector sinking output with a shared emitter (Pin 8) and common cathode clamp node (Pin 9) for flyback energy recirculation.

It operates across –40°C to +105°C ambient temperature, supports parallel channel operation for >500mA aggregate current, and features ESD protection exceeding ±2000V HBM - meeting AEC-Q100 Grade 1 requirements for under-hood and chassis electronics.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

ULQ2004ATDRG4Q1 is packaged in a 16-pin SOIC (D) with 9.90mm × 3.90mm footprint and standard 1.27mm pitch. The package supports surface-mount reflow (MSL Level-1, 260°C peak) and is RoHS-compliant.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar Darlington array applications.

Compared with ULQ2003ATDRG4Q1, ULQ2004ATDRG4Q1 offers lower input current and wider CMOS voltage compatibility, while TPIC6B595N trades integrated protection for programmability and density - making ULQ2004ATDRG4Q1 optimal for direct-logic, high-current, automotive relay/motor control where simplicity and ruggedness are prioritized.

Availability

ULQ2004ATDRG4Q1 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body electronics, industrial relay panels, and transportation lighting systems requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for ULQ2004ATDRG4Q1 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

Texas Instruments is a global semiconductor leader delivering analog and embedded processing solutions, with deep expertise in automotive-grade reliability, functional safety, and power interface ICs.

The ULQ200xA-Q1 product line was designed specifically for automotive signal-to-power interfacing - enabling robust, cost-effective control of relays, motors, lamps, and solenoids directly from low-voltage logic in harsh-temperature environments.

FAQ

What is the maximum continuous collector current per channel for ULQ2004ATDRG4Q1?

The ULQ2004ATDRG4Q1 supports 500mA continuous collector current per Darlington channel under recommended operating conditions (T_A ≤ +105°C, with proper PCB copper pour). Derating applies above 25°C ambient - e.g., 494mW max power at 25°C drops to 342mW at 85°C for SOIC package. This rating assumes single-channel operation; paralleling channels increases total current capacity but requires careful thermal layout.

How does ULQ2004ATDRG4Q1 differ from ULQ2003ATDRG4Q1 in terms of input drive requirements?

The ULQ2004ATDRG4Q1 uses a 10.5kΩ internal base resistor, resulting in input current of 0.35–1.45mA at 5–12V supply - enabling direct interface with higher-voltage CMOS logic. In contrast, ULQ2003ATDRG4Q1 uses a 2.7kΩ resistor and draws 0.93–1.35mA at 3.85V, making it better suited for 3.3V/5V TTL/CMOS systems. Both share identical output structure and thermal specs.

Can ULQ2004ATDRG4Q1 drive inductive loads without external diodes?

Yes - ULQ2004ATDRG4Q1 integrates common-cathode clamp diodes between each collector and the COM pin. When COM is tied to the inductive load's positive supply rail (e.g., +12V), these diodes provide a safe path for flyback current during turn-off. No external diodes are required for standard relay, solenoid, or motor coil driving, reducing component count and board area.

What is the purpose of the E and COM pins on ULQ2004ATDRG4Q1?

Pin 8 (E) is the common emitter - it serves as the shared ground return path for all seven Darlington pairs and must be connected to system GND. Pin 9 (COM) is the common cathode node for internal clamp diodes - it connects to the positive supply of inductive loads (e.g., +12V relay coil rail) to complete the flyback path. For resistive loads, COM may be left unconnected.

Is ULQ2004ATDRG4Q1 compliant with AEC-Q100 standards?

Yes - ULQ2004ATDRG4Q1 is explicitly qualified to AEC-Q100 Grade 1 standards, covering operating temperature from –40°C to +105°C, ESD robustness (±2000V HBM), and reliability testing for automotive applications. Its "-Q1" suffix denotes full automotive qualification, including stress testing, failure analysis, and lot traceability per TI's automotive quality system.