Overview
The DRV8426RGER, manufactured by Texas Instruments, is a highly integrated stepper motor driver designed for industrial and consumer applications. This device combines two N-channel power MOSFET H-bridge drivers, a microstepping indexer, and integrated current sensing, enabling it to drive up to 1.5A full-scale output current (dependent on PCB design). Its internal current sensing architecture eliminates the need for external power sense resistors, reducing PCB size and system costs. The DRV8426RGER is available in a compact VQFN-24 package (4.0mm x 4.0mm) and is positioned as a cost-effective and space-efficient solution for precise motor control.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value | Unit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full-Scale Output Current | 1.5 | A | Depends on PCB design |
| Package | VQFN-24 | - | 4.0mm x 4.0mm |
| Operating Voltage | 4.5 to 33 | V | - |
| Microstepping Modes | Full-step to 1/256 | - | - |
| Control Interface | STEP/DIR | - | - |
| Sleep Current | 2 | µA | - |
| Protection Features | Undervoltage, Overcurrent, Short Circuit, Overtemperature | - | - |
Key Features
- Integrated current sensing eliminates the need for external sense resistors, reducing PCB footprint and cost.
- Supports microstepping modes from full-step to 1/256 for precise motor control.
- Simple STEP/DIR interface for easy integration with external controllers.
- Internal PWM current regulation with smart tune, slow, and mixed decay options for optimized performance.
- Low-power sleep mode for energy efficiency.
- Comprehensive protection features including undervoltage, overcurrent, short circuit, and overtemperature protection.
Applications
The DRV8426RGER is widely used in applications requiring precise motor control, such as industrial automation, robotics, 3D printers, CNC machines, and consumer electronics. Its compact design and integrated features make it ideal for space-constrained applications, while its robust protection mechanisms ensure reliable operation in demanding environments.
Q & A
1. What is the maximum output current of the DRV8426RGER?
The DRV8426RGER can drive up to 1.5A full-scale output current, depending on PCB design.
2. What package does the DRV8426RGER come in?
It is available in a VQFN-24 package measuring 4.0mm x 4.0mm.
3. Does the DRV8426RGER require external current sense resistors?
No, it features integrated current sensing, eliminating the need for external sense resistors.
4. What microstepping modes does the DRV8426RGER support?
It supports microstepping modes from full-step to 1/256.
5. What is the operating voltage range of the DRV8426RGER?
The operating voltage range is 4.5V to 33V.
6. What control interface does the DRV8426RGER use?
It uses a simple STEP/DIR interface for motor control.
7. What are the protection features of the DRV8426RGER?
It includes undervoltage, overcurrent, short circuit, and overtemperature protection.
8. What is the sleep current of the DRV8426RGER?
The sleep current is 2µA, enabling low-power operation.
9. Can the DRV8426RGER be used in consumer electronics?
Yes, it is suitable for both industrial and consumer applications.
10. What is the advantage of the smart tune feature?
Smart tune automatically adjusts current regulation for optimal performance, compensating for motor variations and aging effects while reducing audible noise.
