Motor Drivers

DRV8231

DRV8231 - 35V, 3.7A Brushed DC Motor Driver | Texas Instruments

The Texas Instruments DRV8231 is a 35-V, 3.7-A H-bridge motor driver with integrated current regulation, housed in an 8-pin WSON (2x2) package. It is designed to drive brushed DC motors from a 4.5-V to 33-V supply rail, providing a compact and efficient solution for space-constrained applications. A brushed DC motor driver is an integrated circuit that controls the direction and speed of a brushed DC motor by switching the polarity and magnitude of voltage applied to the motor terminals. The DRV8231 uses four N-channel MOSFETs in an H-bridge configuration, allowing bidirectional control of the motor. The integrated charge pump enables N-channel high-side switching, which improves efficiency and supports 100% duty cycle operation, eliminating the need for external components. Key features of the DRV8231 include a typical RDS(on) of 600 mΩ for the high-side and low-side FET pairs, which minimizes power loss and heat generation. The device also includes integrated current regulation, which limits the motor current to a programmable level, protecting the motor and driver from overcurrent conditions. Two logic inputs (IN1 and IN2) control the bridge, allowing simple PWM or on/off control from a microcontroller. The DRV8231's small 8-pin WSON package and minimal external component requirement make it ideal for applications where board space is at a premium. Its wide operating voltage range from 4.5 V to 33 V accommodates a variety of power sources, from single-cell Li-ion batteries to 24-V industrial supplies. The integrated current regulation eliminates the need for a separate current-sense resistor and amplifier, further reducing the bill of materials. Typical applications include consumer electronics such as drones, toys, and portable devices; industrial automation like small actuators and valve controls; and medical equipment requiring reliable and compact motor drives. The DRV8231 also finds use in robotics and home appliances where precise and efficient motor control is essential. When designing with the DRV8231, ensure that the supply voltage and motor current ratings are within the device's safe operating area. The charge pump capacitor must be placed close to the device for stable operation. Also, proper PCB layout with adequate thermal vias is recommended to dissipate heat effectively. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet, providing a complete resource for engineers selecting a brushed DC motor driver.