Overview
The ULN2804A, produced by STMicroelectronics, is a high-voltage, high-current Darlington array integrated circuit. It contains eight NPN Darlington pairs with common emitters and integral suppression diodes for inductive loads. This device is designed to interface between low-level logic circuitry and high-power loads, making it suitable for a variety of applications requiring robust and reliable switching capabilities.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value | Unit |
|---|---|---|
| Output Current (Continuous) | 500 | mA |
| Output Voltage | 50 | V |
| Input Voltage | 30 | V |
| Continuous Base Current | 25 | mA |
| Power Dissipation (DIP-18) | 1.5 | W |
| Operating Ambient Temperature Range | -20 to 85 | °C |
| Storage Temperature Range | -55 to 150 | °C |
| Junction Temperature | -20 to 150 | °C |
| Thermal Resistance Junction-Ambient (DIP-18) | 55 | °C/W |
Key Features
- Eight Darlington transistors with common emitters
- Output current to 500 mA (peak load current rating of 600 mA)
- Output voltage to 50 V
- Integral suppression diodes for inductive loads
- Versions for all popular logic families (TTL, PMOS, CMOS)
- Outputs can be paralleled for higher current capability
- Inputs pinned opposite outputs to simplify board layout
- Supplied in an 18-lead plastic DIP package with copper lead form
Applications
The ULN2804A is ideally suited for various high-power applications, including:
- Relays
- DC motors
- Filament lamps
- LED displays
- Printer hammers
- High-power buffers
Q & A
- What is the maximum output current of the ULN2804A?
The maximum continuous output current is 500 mA, with a peak load current rating of 600 mA.
- What is the maximum output voltage the ULN2804A can handle?
The device can withstand output voltages up to 50 V.
- What types of logic families is the ULN2804A compatible with?
The ULN2804A is compatible with TTL, PMOS, and CMOS logic families.
- Can the outputs of the ULN2804A be paralleled?
- What is the operating temperature range of the ULN2804A?
The operating ambient temperature range is -20 to 85°C.
- What is the storage temperature range for the ULN2804A?
The storage temperature range is -55 to 150°C.
- What is the thermal resistance junction-ambient for the DIP-18 package?
The thermal resistance junction-ambient for the DIP-18 package is 55°C/W.
- What types of packages are available for the ULN2804A?
The device is available in an 18-lead plastic DIP package with a copper lead form.
- What is the purpose of the integral suppression diodes in the ULN2804A?
The integral suppression diodes are for protecting the device against inductive loads.
- How does the input-opposite-output pinout simplify board layout?
The input-opposite-output pinout simplifies board layout by making it easier to connect inputs and outputs without crossing wires.
