Many electronic systems today include some type of mechanical actuator, whether it is a solenoid, relay, or motor. Typically such a system has an intelligent controller which communicates its commands to the various system actuators through low voltage logic level communications. This communication can be done through simple parallel communications. Complex systems might use one of many serial communication protocols such as Serial Parallel Interface (SPI).
Most actuators are not able to respond directly to low voltage signals. Driver ICs are needed to take these low voltage control signals as inputs and convert the digital commands into an analog voltage to drive the actuator.
Allegro specializes in the power interface role in which these driver ICs perform. These ICs are rated up to voltages of 60 V and may include automotive capable temperature ranges and diagnostic capabilities.
High Side Driver and Low Side Driver Selection Guide
Low Side Drivers |
Part Number |
Output Voltage |
Output Current (per channel) |
Number of Outputs |
Description |
Serial Input |
Parallel Input |
High Side / Low Side |
Package |
A2550K |
50 |
3 กม 250 mA |
3 กม low side 1 กม LDO |
3 channel low side relay driver / 5V regulator, POR, and watchdog |
No |
Yes |
Low Side |
eTSSOP-16 |
A3944K |
50 |
N/A |
6 |
Six channel low side MOSFET Pre-driver IC |
Yes |
N/A |
N/A |
eTSSOP-28 |
High Side Drivers |
Part Number |
Output Voltage |
Output Current (per channel) |
Number of Outputs |
Description |
Serial Input |
Parallel Input |
High Side / Low Side |
Package |
A3942K |
60 |
4 กม pre-drive |
4 |
Four channel high side MOSFET pre-driver IC |
Yes |
Yes |
High Side |
TSSOP-38 |
A2982 |
50 |
8 กม 350 mA |
8 |
Eight channel high side driver IC |
No |
Yo |
High Side |
SOIC-20 |
A6850K |
40 |
2 กม 25 mA |
2 |
Two channel high side protected switch with current monitor outputs |
No |
Yes |
High Side |
SOIC-8 |
UDN2987‑6 |
35 |
8 กม 350 mA |
8 |
Eight channel high side driver IC with over-current protection |
No |
Yes |
High Side |
SOIC-20 |
Note: "K" suffix denotes automotive grade product (AEC-Q100 qualified)