DRV8701E Brushed DC Motor Full-Bridge Gate Driver IC

DRV8701E Brushed DC Motor Full-Bridge Gate Driver IC provides a highly integrated solution for controlling external N-channel MOSFETs in a full-bridge configuration to drive brushed DC motors. This sophisticated gate driver uses a single PWM input to manage motor speed and direction, which greatly simplifies the interface between the controller and the power stage. Consequently, designers can achieve high-power motor control without the complexity of managing individual gate drive signals. Furthermore, the device features adjustable gate drive current to optimize switching performance and reduce electromagnetic interference (EMI). Therefore, the DRV8701E is an excellent choice for robotics and industrial automation projects where efficiency and protection are paramount.

Key Features:

• Integrated Gate Drive: The IC drives four external N-channel MOSFETs, allowing for scalable power delivery to meet various motor requirements.
• PH/EN Control Interface: This specific “E” variant utilizes a Phase/Enable interface, which simplifies logic control by using one pin for direction and another for speed (PWM).
• Smart Gate Drive: It features an adjustable gate drive architecture that prevents shoot-through and allows for fine-tuning of the MOSFET slew rate.
• Wide Supply Range: The device operates across a broad voltage spectrum, supporting various battery and industrial power rail configurations.
• Comprehensive Protection: Integrated safety features include undervoltage lockout (UVLO), charge pump fault detection, overcurrent protection (OCP), and thermal shutdown.

Technical Specifications:

• Operating Supply Voltage: 5.9 V to 45 V
• Gate Drive Current: Adjustable from 6 mA to 150 mA (Source/Sink)
• PWM Frequency Support: Up to 100 kHz
• VDS Sensing Threshold: Adjustable via the VREF pin to provide precise overcurrent protection.
• Quiescent Current: ≈ 4 mA typical in active mode.
• Logic Interface: 1.8 V, 3.3 V, and 5 V compatible inputs.
• Operating Temperature Range: −40°C to +125°C

Mechanical Specifications:

• Package Type: VQFN-24 or HTSSOP-20 (Depending on variant)
• Thermal Pad: Includes an exposed bottom thermal pad for improved heat dissipation to the PCB.
• Lead Finish: Matte Tin or NiPdAu (RoHS compliant).
• Mounting Type: Surface Mount Technology (SMT).

Dimensions:

• VQFN Package Size: 4.0 mm x 4.0 mm
• HTSSOP Package Size: ≈ 6.5 mm x 4.4 mm
• Package Height: 0.9 mm (VQFN) or 1.2 mm (HTSSOP)
• Pin Pitch: 0.5 mm (VQFN) or 0.65 mm (HTSSOP)

Pinout and Wiring:

• VM: Connect to the motor power supply (5.9 V to 45 V) with a local decoupling capacitor.
• PH (Phase): Connect to a digital I/O for direction control; high for one direction, low for the other.
• EN (Enable): Connect to a PWM signal to control the motor speed and braking.
• nFAULT: Connect to a pull-up resistor; this pin pulls low during a protection event.
• VREF: Apply an analog voltage to set the current limit threshold for the VDS sensing circuit.
• GHx / GLx: Connect these outputs to the high-side and low-side MOSFET gates respectively.
• Wiring Note: However, you must place the decoupling capacitors as close to the VM and ground pins as possible to minimize inductive voltage spikes.

Datasheet Reference:

• Download Texas Instruments DRV8701 Gate Driver Datasheet

Commonly Used in:

• High-Power Robotics: Driving high-torque brushed motors in mobile robot platforms.
• Industrial Actuators: Controlling linear actuators in automated assembly lines.
• Battery-Powered Tools: Managing power delivery in cordless drills and handheld appliances.

Applications:

• Precision Motion Control: Utilizing high-frequency PWM for smooth speed ramps and position holding.
• Smart Home Devices: Powering motorized blinds, locks, and curtain controllers.
• Automotive Comfort Systems: Driving small motors for power seats, mirrors, and window lifts.

Equivalent Models:

• DRV8701P: A similar gate driver that uses a PWM/PWM (IN1/IN2) interface instead of Phase/Enable.
• DRV8704: A dual-bridge version designed for driving stepper motors or two brushed DC motors.
• A4950 (Allegro): A common alternative, although it features integrated MOSFETs and handles lower peak currents.

Package Includes:

• 1 x DRV8701E Brushed DC Motor Full-Bridge Gate Driver IC