TPM8837
Dual H-Bridge DC Motor Driver with 1.5A continuous output current per channel, supporting DC brushed and stepper motors.
Product Overview
Description
The TPM8837 is a dual H-bridge DC motor driver capable of driving two DC motors or one stepper motor. Each H-bridge can deliver up to 1.5A continuous output current with peak current up to 2.5A.
The device features low RDS(on) of 0.35Ω per H-bridge, minimizing power dissipation and enabling efficient motor control. Built-in protection features include over-current protection, thermal shutdown, and under-voltage lockout.
Operating voltage range of 2.7V to 15V makes the TPM8837 suitable for battery-powered applications including toys, robotics, and portable equipment. The small SOP-16 package minimizes PCB footprint while providing excellent thermal performance.
Product Series
TPM
Primary Application
Toys and robotics
Key Features
- Dual H-bridge motor driver
- 1.5A continuous output current per channel
- Low RDS(on) of 0.35Ω
- Wide supply voltage range 2.7V-15V
- Built-in over-current protection
- Thermal shutdown protection
- Under-voltage lockout
- Small SOP-16 package
Specifications
| Motor Type | DC Brushed / Stepper |
|---|---|
| Output Current | 1.5A continuous per channel |
| Peak Current | 2.5A per channel |
| Supply Voltage | 2.7V to 15V |
| RDS(on) | 0.35Ω per H-bridge |
| PWM Frequency | Up to 100kHz |
| Protection | OCP, TSD, UVLO |
| Voltage Rating | 15V max |
| Current Rating | 1.5A continuous |
| Temperature Range | -40°C to +85°C |
| Package | SOP-16 |
Applications
Toys and robotics
Electronic system design
Battery-powered equipment
Battery and charging management
CCTV camera pan/tilt
Electronic system design
Printers and scanners
Electronic system design
Consumer electronics
Consumer electronics
FAE Expert Insights
"The TPM8837 is an excellent choice for low-voltage motor control applications. Its low RDS(on) and wide voltage range make it ideal for battery-powered devices. The built-in protection features ensure reliable operation in consumer electronics."
Best-in-class efficiency for battery applications
— Michael Chen, BeiLuo
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive a stepper motor with TPM8837?
Yes, the TPM8837 can drive a single bipolar stepper motor using both H-bridges. Connect one winding to each H-bridge and control the phase sequence through the input pins. Maximum current per phase is 1.5A. For microstepping or higher current requirements, consider dedicated stepper motor drivers. The TPM8837 is best suited for full-step or half-step operation.
Use TPM8837 for basic stepper control. Consider dedicated stepper drivers for microstepping.
What is the maximum PWM frequency?
The TPM8837 supports PWM frequencies up to 100kHz. However, for most applications, 20-50kHz is recommended to balance switching losses and current ripple. Higher frequencies reduce audible noise but increase switching losses. Lower frequencies may cause audible whine from the motor. The device includes dead-time insertion to prevent shoot-through during switching.
Use 20-50kHz for optimal performance. Higher frequencies for noise-sensitive applications.
How do I handle motor braking?
The TPM8837 supports dynamic braking by shorting motor terminals when both inputs are low (slow decay mode). For faster braking, use fast decay mode (reverse polarity) or external braking resistors. The choice depends on application requirements: Slow decay for gentle braking, fast decay for quick stopping. Consider energy dissipation requirements when designing the braking circuit.
Use slow decay for gentle braking, fast decay for quick stops. Consider energy dissipation.
What is the thermal performance?
The TPM8837 features thermal shutdown at 150°C junction temperature with 20°C hysteresis. For reliable operation, keep junction temperature below 125°C. Thermal performance depends on PCB layout - use large copper areas for heat dissipation, thermal vias, and adequate spacing. At 1.5A continuous current with 0.35Ω RDS(on), power dissipation is approximately 0.8W per channel.
Use good PCB thermal design. Keep junction temp below 125°C for reliability.
Can I parallel channels for higher current?
Yes, the two H-bridge channels can be paralleled to drive a single motor with up to 3A continuous current. Connect inputs in parallel and outputs in parallel. Ensure matched trace lengths for current sharing. Add small series resistors (0.1Ω) if needed for better current balancing. Thermal management becomes more critical at higher currents.
Parallel channels for 3A capability. Ensure matched layout for current sharing.