Adaptable gate driver powers 48-V automotive systems

ST’s L98GD8 multichannel gate driver offers flexible output configurations in 48-V automotive power systems. Its eight independent, configurable outputs can drive MOSFETs as individual power switches or as high- and low-side pairs in up to two H-bridges for DC motor control. The device also supports peak-and-hold operation for electrically actuated valves.

Programmable gate current helps minimize MOSFET switching noise to meet EMC requirements. The driver operates from a 3.8-V to 58-V battery supply and a 4.5-V to 5.5-V V_DD supply. Its I/O is compatible with both 3.3-V and 5-V logic levels.

To ensure safety and reliability, each output provides comprehensive diagnostics, including short-to-battery, short-to-ground, and open-load conditions. Output status is continuously monitored through dedicated SPI registers. The L98GD8 features fast overcurrent shutdown with dual-redundant failsafe pins, battery undervoltage detection, and an ADC for monitoring battery voltage and die temperature. Additional safety functions include Built-In Self-Test (BIST), Hardware Self-Check (HWSC), and a Communication Check (CC) watchdog timer.

The L98GD8 driver is available now, with prices starting at $3.94 each in lots of 1000 units.

L98GD8 product page 

STMicroelectronics

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