DRV8818PWPR - 2.5A Bipolar Stepper Motor Driver | TI
MPN: DRV8818PWPR ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $3.42 | $3.42 |
| 10 | $3.08 | $30.80 |
| 100 | $2.74 | $274.00 |
| 500 | $2.47 | $1,235.00 |
| 1,000 | $2.2 | $2,200.00 |
DRV8818PWPR Overview
A stepper motor driver is a power management IC that translates step and direction signals into the precise current sequences needed to rotate a stepper motor. It typically includes H-bridge output stages, current sensing, and protection features. The DRV8818 belongs to the motor driver category, which is part of the broader power management IC family. It uses a STEP/DIR interface, simplifying the connection to a microcontroller or motion controller.
Key features of the DRV8818PWPR include a low 0.37 Ω (HS + LS) MOSFET on-resistance at 25°C, which minimizes power dissipation and improves efficiency. The device supports programmable mixed decay, blanking time, and off time, allowing designers to optimize current regulation for different motor types and operating conditions. It also provides a separate logic supply voltage (VCC) for the digital interface, enabling operation with 3.3 V or 5 V logic while the motor supply can be up to 35 V.
The DRV8818 uses a current-regulation architecture with a built-in indexer that generates the microstepping waveforms. The device includes protection features such as overcurrent, overtemperature, and undervoltage lockout. The low on-resistance and high current capability make it suitable for applications requiring smooth motion and low heat generation.
Typical applications include 3D printers, office automation equipment, vending machines, and industrial automation. The device's wide supply range and robust output stage allow it to drive a variety of bipolar stepper motors. The HTSSOP-28 package with PowerPAD provides excellent thermal performance, enabling continuous operation at high currents with proper PCB layout.
When designing with the DRV8818, ensure adequate decoupling on the motor supply and logic supply pins. The exposed thermal pad must be soldered to a copper plane for heat dissipation. The STEP/DIR inputs should be filtered to avoid noise-induced false steps.
Drop-in alternatives for DRV8818PWPR — same package, pin-to-pin compatible. Different-package parts requiring PCB rework are excluded.
Variants in this series
Same-series models that are drop-in compatible with DRV8818PWPR (same form factor and footprint).
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
DRV8818PWP
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
DRV8818PWPR-Q1
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
DRV8818A
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
DRV8811
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
DRV8818PWPR Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Motor Type | Bipolar Stepper |
| Output Current per Winding | 2.5 A |
| Supply Voltage Range | 8 V to 35 V |
| Logic Supply Voltage (VCC) | 3.3 V to 5 V |
| Microstepping Resolution | Up to 1/8 step |
| MOSFET On-Resistance (HS + LS) | 0.37 Ω at 25°C |
| Control Interface | STEP/DIR |
| Decay Mode | Programmable Mixed Decay |
| Blanking Time | Programmable |
| Off Time | Programmable |
| Package | HTSSOP-28 (PWP) |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40°C to 85°C |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
| Lead Free Status | Lead Free |
| Protection Features | Overcurrent, Overtemperature, Undervoltage Lockout |
DRV8818PWPR Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | OUT1 — H-bridge output 1 |
| Pin 2 | OUT2 — H-bridge output 2 |
| Pin 3 | OUT3 — H-bridge output 3 |
| Pin 4 | OUT4 — H-bridge output 4 |
| Pin 5 | VCP — Charge pump capacitor connection |
| Pin 6 | VCC — Logic supply voltage |
| Pin 7 | GND — Ground |
| Pin 8 | STEP — Step input |
| Pin 9 | DIR — Direction input |
| Pin 10 | MS1 — Microstep selection bit 1 |
| Pin 11 | MS2 — Microstep selection bit 2 |
| Pin 12 | EN — Enable input |
| Pin 13 | VREF — Current reference voltage |
| Pin 14 | SENSE1 — Current sense for H-bridge 1 |
| Pin 15 | SENSE2 — Current sense for H-bridge 2 |
| Pin 16 | VM — Motor supply voltage |
| Pin 17 | VM — Motor supply voltage |
| Pin 18 | GND — Ground |
| Pin 19 | GND — Ground |
| Pin 20 | OUT4 — H-bridge output 4 |
| Pin 21 | OUT3 — H-bridge output 3 |
| Pin 22 | OUT2 — H-bridge output 2 |
| Pin 23 | OUT1 — H-bridge output 1 |
| Pin 24 | VCP — Charge pump capacitor connection |
| Pin 25 | VCC — Logic supply voltage |
| Pin 26 | GND — Ground |
| Pin 27 | STEP — Step input |
| Pin 28 | DIR — Direction input |
Typical Applications
DRV8818PWPR is suitable for 6 applications: 3D Printers, Office Automation, Textile Machines, Vending Machines, Industrial Automation, Medical Equipment.
3D Printers
The DRV8818PWPR is ideal for 3D printers, providing up to 2.5 A per winding to drive extruder and axis stepper motors. Its 1/8 microstepping ensures smooth, precise motion, while the low 0.37 Ω on-resistance minimizes heat generation in enclosed printer chambers. The wide 8-35 V supply range accommodates various power supplies, and the STEP/DIR interface simplifies connection to printer controller boards. The programmable decay and blanking times allow tuning for different motor inductances, reducing noise and vibration. With thermal protection and robust output stages, it ensures reliable operation during long print jobs.
Recommended
Office Automation
In printers, scanners, and copiers, the DRV8818PWPR drives paper feed and carriage motors with precision. Its 2.5 A current capability handles the torque required for paper handling, while the microstepping indexer ensures accurate positioning. The low on-resistance reduces power dissipation, which is critical in compact office equipment with limited airflow. The device's programmable mixed decay optimizes current regulation for different motor types, improving efficiency and reducing audible noise. The HTSSOP-28 package with PowerPAD allows efficient heat sinking in space-constrained designs. The wide supply range supports both 12 V and 24 V systems commonly used in office machines.
Recommended
Textile Machines
The DRV8818PWPR is suitable for textile machines that require precise, synchronized motion of multiple stepper motors. Its 2.5 A per winding output and 1/8 microstepping provide the accuracy needed for thread tensioning and pattern control. The device's robust protection features, including overcurrent and overtemperature, ensure reliable operation in industrial environments. The low on-resistance minimizes heat, allowing continuous operation without external heatsinks in many cases. The programmable off time and blanking time enable optimization for high-inductance motors commonly used in textile equipment. The wide supply voltage range accommodates 24 V industrial power rails.
Recommended
Vending Machines
In vending machines, the DRV8818PWPR drives motors for product dispensing and conveyor systems. Its 2.5 A current capability handles the torque needed to move heavy items, while the microstepping ensures smooth, quiet operation. The low on-resistance reduces power consumption, which is important for battery-backed or energy-efficient designs. The device's wide supply range (8-35 V) allows it to work with various power sources, from 12 V batteries to 24 V adapters. The STEP/DIR interface simplifies integration with the machine's control board. The thermal protection ensures safe operation in enclosed environments with limited airflow.
Recommended
Industrial Automation
The DRV8818PWPR is used in industrial automation for positioning stages, conveyor systems, and robotic arms. Its 2.5 A per winding output and 1/8 microstepping provide the precision and torque required for accurate positioning. The device's low on-resistance (0.37 Ω) minimizes power loss, enabling efficient operation in high-duty-cycle applications. The programmable decay and blanking times allow optimization for various motor inductances, improving performance and reducing heat. The wide supply voltage range (8-35 V) makes it compatible with standard industrial power supplies. The HTSSOP-28 package with PowerPAD ensures reliable thermal management in harsh environments.
Recommended
Medical Equipment
In medical devices such as infusion pumps and diagnostic equipment, the DRV8818PWPR provides precise, quiet motor control. Its 2.5 A current capability and 1/8 microstepping ensure smooth, accurate motion for critical functions. The low on-resistance reduces heat generation, which is essential in compact medical devices. The device's protection features, including overcurrent and overtemperature, enhance safety and reliability. The wide supply range (8-35 V) accommodates various power sources, from batteries to mains-powered supplies. The STEP/DIR interface simplifies integration with medical-grade microcontrollers. The HTSSOP-28 package with PowerPAD allows efficient heat dissipation in sealed enclosures.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for DRV8818PWPR — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | DRV8818PWP | DRV8818PWPR-Q1 | DRV8818A | DRV8811 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | HTSSOP-28 (PWP) | HTSSOP-28 (PWP) | HTSSOP-28 (PWP) | HTSSOP-28 (PWP) | HTSSOP-28 (PWP) |
| Brand | Texas Instruments | Texas Instruments | Texas Instruments | Texas Instruments | Texas Instruments |
| Output Current per Winding | 2.5 A | 2.5 A | 2.5 A | 2.5 A | 1.5 A |
| Supply Voltage Range | 8 V to 35 V | 8 V to 35 V | 8 V to 35 V | 8 V to 35 V | 8 V to 38 V |
| MOSFET On-Resistance | 0.37 Ω | 0.37 Ω | 0.37 Ω | 0.31 Ω | 1.0 Ω |
| Microstepping Resolution | 1/8 step | 1/8 step | 1/8 step | 1/8 step | 1/8 step |
| Automotive Grade | No | No | Yes (AEC-Q100) | No | No |
| Smart Tune Technology | No | No | No | Yes | No |
Key Differentiators
- Lower on-resistance than DRV8811 (vs DRV8811)
- Higher output current than DRV8811 (vs DRV8811)
- Automotive grade option available (vs DRV8818PWPR (standard))
Design Notes
The DRV8818PWPR in HTSSOP-28 package has an exposed thermal pad (PowerPAD) that must be soldered to a copper plane for effective heat dissipation. At 2.5 A per winding and 35 V supply, power dissipation can be significant. Calculate the junction temperature using the package thermal resistance (theta_JA) and ensure adequate copper area or airflow. For continuous operation at high currents, consider adding vias to the thermal pad to improve heat transfer to other layers.
Place a 0.1 µF ceramic capacitor close to the VCC pin and a 10 µF electrolytic capacitor near the VM pin. The charge pump capacitor (VCP) should be placed as close as possible to the VCP pin. Use separate ground planes for power and logic to minimize noise coupling. The sense resistors (SENSE1 and SENSE2) should be low-inductance types and placed close to the IC to reduce parasitic inductance.
Ensure the STEP and DIR inputs are properly filtered to avoid false triggering from noise. The VREF pin sets the current regulation threshold; use a stable reference voltage and appropriate sense resistors. Do not exceed the absolute maximum ratings for VM and VCC. The EN pin must be pulled high to enable the outputs; floating EN can cause unpredictable behavior. Also, verify the microstep selection (MS1, MS2) matches the desired resolution.
Compliance Information
RoHS compliant and lead-free per DigiKey and digchips data. Not AEC-Q100 qualified; automotive variant DRV8818PWPR-Q1 is available.
