Low-voltage DC motor driver IC in ultra-compact package

The new A3903 from Allegro MicroSystems Europe is a low-voltage bidirectional DC motor driver IC in an ultra-compact package measuring only 2 mm square and 0.55 mm high.

The new device has a typical input voltage range of 3 to 5.5 V and produces an output current up to 500 mA. The output uses a full-bridge circuit incorporating source-side linear operation to produce a constant voltage across the motor coil. This regulated output minimises motor voltage changes caused by current variations and battery voltage fluctuations.

Logic input pins are provided to control the motor rotation, brake, and standby (at less than 500 nA supply current) to allow optional pulse-width modulation of the sink drivers. Internal circuitry includes thermal shutdown, undervoltage lockout and crossover current (shoot-through) protection.

Typical applications include robotic actuators and pumps, portable printers and scanners, camera lens and shutter controls, battery powered toys and games, and low-noise test instrumentation systems.
The A3903 is supplied in a 2 x 2 x 0.55 8-lead DFN package, with exposed thermal pad (suffix EE). This small footprint package is lead (Pb) free, with 100% matt tin leadframe plating. Operating temperature range is -40oC to 85oC.