L6480H - 10A Dual Full-Bridge Stepper Motor Driver | STMicroelectronics
MPN: L6480H β Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $8.5 | $8.50 |
| 10 | $7.65 | $76.50 |
| 100 | $6.8 | $680.00 |
| 500 | $6.12 | $3,060.00 |
| 1,000 | $5.44 | $5,440.00 |
L6480H Overview
A stepper motor driver is a power management IC that translates digital step and direction commands into precise current-controlled pulses for driving bipolar stepper motors. It sits within the hierarchy: stepper motor driver -> motor driver -> power management IC -> semiconductor. The L6480H integrates both the power stage and the control logic, eliminating the need for external MOSFETs and simplifying PCB design. This integration reduces component count and improves reliability, making it a key building block in modern motion control systems.
Key features of the L6480H include a programmable output current up to 10A peak, microstepping up to 1/128 step, and a wide supply voltage range of 8V to 85V. It also features overcurrent, overtemperature, and undervoltage protection, ensuring robust operation in harsh industrial environments. The SPI interface allows real-time configuration and monitoring, while the dedicated STEP and DIR pins enable simple interfacing with microcontrollers or motion controllers.
The L6480H utilizes a proprietary advanced current control algorithm that minimizes motor noise and vibration, improving positioning accuracy. The device supports both full-step and microstepping modes, with the ability to adjust the decay mode for optimal performance across different motor types. The integrated sense resistors eliminate the need for external current sensing, further reducing BOM cost and board space.
Typical applications include CNC machines, 3D printers, textile machinery, and automated assembly equipment. The L6480H's high current capability and wide voltage range make it suitable for driving large NEMA 34 and NEMA 42 stepper motors, which are common in industrial automation. Its SPI interface also enables advanced features like stall detection and position tracking, enhancing system intelligence.
When designing with the L6480H, ensure adequate PCB copper area for thermal dissipation, as the device can dissipate significant power at high currents. The exposed pad must be soldered to a thermal via array connected to a ground plane. Additionally, place decoupling capacitors close to the VM and VCC pins to minimize voltage transients.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the STMicroelectronics datasheet, providing engineers with a comprehensive resource for selecting and implementing the L6480H in their designs.
Drop-in alternatives for L6480H β same package, pin-to-pin compatible. Different-package parts requiring PCB rework are excluded.
Quick Comparison Tool β Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
L6480HTR
β Drop-Inπ Reference alternative (not in catalog)
L6480
β Drop-Inπ Reference alternative (not in catalog)
L6480H-1
β Drop-Inπ Reference alternative (not in catalog)
L6480H Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Output Current (Peak) | 10 A per bridge |
| Supply Voltage Range | 8 V to 85 V |
| Number of Bridges | 2 (dual full-bridge) |
| Microstepping | Up to 1/128 step |
| Control Interface | SPI, STEP/DIR |
| Package | HTSSOP-28 (H) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Operating Temperature | -40C to +125C |
| Protection Features | Overcurrent, Overtemperature, Undervoltage |
| Current Sense | Integrated sense resistors |
| Decay Mode | Programmable |
| Logic Supply Voltage | 3.3 V to 5 V |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
L6480H Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | VM β Motor supply voltage |
| Pin 2 | OUT1A β Motor output 1A |
| Pin 3 | OUT1B β Motor output 1B |
| Pin 4 | GND β Ground |
| Pin 5 | OUT2A β Motor output 2A |
| Pin 6 | OUT2B β Motor output 2B |
| Pin 7 | VM β Motor supply voltage |
| Pin 8 | VCC β Logic supply voltage |
| Pin 9 | GND β Ground |
| Pin 10 | STEP β Step input |
| Pin 11 | DIR β Direction input |
| Pin 12 | SPI_CLK β SPI clock |
| Pin 13 | SPI_CS β SPI chip select |
| Pin 14 | SPI_SDI β SPI data in |
| Pin 15 | SPI_SDO β SPI data out |
| Pin 16 | FLAG β Flag output |
| Pin 17 | GND β Ground |
| Pin 18 | VCC β Logic supply voltage |
| Pin 19 | GND β Ground |
| Pin 20 | OUT2B β Motor output 2B |
| Pin 21 | OUT2A β Motor output 2A |
| Pin 22 | GND β Ground |
| Pin 23 | OUT1B β Motor output 1B |
| Pin 24 | OUT1A β Motor output 1A |
| Pin 25 | VM β Motor supply voltage |
| Pin 26 | GND β Ground |
| Pin 27 | GND β Ground |
| Pin 28 | GND β Ground |
Typical Applications
L6480H is suitable for 6 applications: CNC Machines, 3D Printers, Robotics, Textile Machinery, Automated Assembly Equipment, Medical Equipment.
CNC Machines
The L6480H is ideal for CNC machines due to its high current capability (up to 10A peak) and wide supply voltage range (8V to 85V). It can drive NEMA 34 and NEMA 42 stepper motors commonly used in CNC routers and mills, providing precise positioning and smooth motion. The SPI interface allows real-time configuration of microstepping and decay modes, optimizing performance for different cutting speeds and loads. The integrated protection features ensure reliable operation in dusty and high-vibration environments. Compared to lower-current drivers, the L6480H reduces the need for external power stages, simplifying the control board and improving system reliability.
Recommended
3D Printers
The L6480H is well-suited for 3D printers, offering up to 10A peak current and microstepping up to 1/128 step for quiet and precise motion. It can drive NEMA 17 and NEMA 23 stepper motors used in the X, Y, and Z axes, as well as the extruder. The SPI interface enables dynamic adjustment of current and decay modes, reducing motor heating and improving print quality. The wide supply voltage range allows operation from 12V or 24V power supplies commonly used in 3D printers. The integrated sense resistors eliminate external components, saving board space and cost. The L6480H's robust protection features prevent damage from stalled motors or overcurrent conditions, enhancing printer reliability.
Recommended
Robotics
In robotics, the L6480H provides high-current, precise control for stepper motors in robotic arms, mobile platforms, and actuators. Its 10A peak current capability supports large motors that require high torque, while microstepping ensures smooth and accurate positioning. The SPI interface allows the robot controller to adjust motor parameters in real time, enabling adaptive motion control. The wide voltage range (8V to 85V) accommodates various battery and power supply configurations. The integrated protection features, such as overcurrent and overtemperature shutdown, protect the driver and motor during unexpected stalls or overloads. The compact HTSSOP-28 package fits into space-constrained robotic designs.
Recommended
Textile Machinery
The L6480H is used in textile machinery for driving stepper motors in looms, knitting machines, and winding equipment. Its high current capability and microstepping ensure precise thread tension and pattern control. The wide supply voltage range allows integration into existing industrial power systems. The SPI interface enables centralized control and monitoring, improving production efficiency. The device's robust protection features ensure continuous operation in dusty and high-temperature environments. The L6480H's low power dissipation and efficient current control reduce energy consumption, lowering operating costs.
Recommended
Automated Assembly Equipment
The L6480H is ideal for automated assembly equipment, such as pick-and-place machines and conveyor systems, where precise and reliable motor control is critical. Its 10A peak current capability drives large stepper motors for heavy loads, while microstepping ensures accurate positioning. The SPI interface allows seamless integration with PLCs or industrial PCs, enabling real-time monitoring and diagnostics. The wide supply voltage range (8V to 85V) supports various industrial power rails. The integrated protection features, including overcurrent and undervoltage lockout, prevent damage during power fluctuations or mechanical jams. The compact package and integrated sense resistors simplify PCB design and reduce assembly time.
Recommended
Medical Equipment
The L6480H is used in medical equipment such as infusion pumps, diagnostic devices, and laboratory automation systems, where precise and quiet motor control is essential. Its microstepping capability ensures smooth motion, reducing noise and vibration. The wide supply voltage range allows operation from various power sources, including battery-powered devices. The SPI interface enables precise control and monitoring, meeting stringent medical requirements. The device's integrated protection features ensure safe operation, preventing motor stalls or overcurrent conditions that could compromise patient safety. The compact HTSSOP-28 package is suitable for space-constrained medical devices.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for L6480H β comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | L6480HTR | L6480 | L6480H-1 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | HTSSOP-28 (H) | HTSSOP-28 (H) - same | HTSSOP-28 (H) - same | HTSSOP-28 (H) - same |
| Output Current (Peak) | 10 A per bridge | 10 A per bridge | 10 A per bridge | 10 A per bridge |
| Supply Voltage Range | 8 V to 85 V | 8 V to 85 V | 8 V to 85 V | 8 V to 85 V |
| Microstepping | Up to 1/128 step | Up to 1/128 step | Up to 1/128 step | Up to 1/128 step |
| Control Interface | SPI, STEP/DIR | SPI, STEP/DIR | SPI, STEP/DIR | SPI, STEP/DIR |
| Protection Features | Overcurrent, Overtemperature, Undervoltage | Overcurrent, Overtemperature, Undervoltage | Overcurrent, Overtemperature, Undervoltage | Overcurrent, Overtemperature, Undervoltage |
| Operating Temperature | -40C to +125C | -40C to +125C | -40C to +125C | -40C to +125C |
| Packaging | Tape & Reel | Tape & Reel | Tube | Tape & Reel |
Key Differentiators
- High current capability up to 10A peak per bridge (vs L6470)
- Dual full-bridge configuration (vs L6470)
- Wide supply voltage range (8V to 85V) (vs L6470)
Design Notes
The L6480H can dissipate significant power at high currents. For example, at 10A peak and 24V supply, power dissipation can exceed 5W. The HTSSOP-28 package has an exposed thermal pad that must be soldered to a copper area with thermal vias connected to a ground plane. Ensure adequate PCB copper area (at least 2 square inches) for heat spreading. Consider forced air cooling if ambient temperature exceeds 50C.
Place 100nF ceramic capacitors close to each VM pin and a 10uF electrolytic capacitor near the VM supply. For the logic supply, use a 100nF capacitor close to the VCC pin. Route the STEP and DIR signals away from high-current motor traces to avoid noise coupling. Use a ground plane to minimize EMI and provide a low-impedance return path.
Do not exceed the absolute maximum supply voltage of 85V. Ensure the motor supply is properly decoupled to prevent voltage spikes during switching. The SPI interface must be initialized correctly before enabling the outputs; otherwise, the device may not respond. Also, verify that the logic supply voltage is within 3.3V to 5V to avoid damage to the control logic.
Compliance Information
RoHS compliance confirmed from STMicroelectronics datasheet. Other compliance data not explicitly provided.
