L9396L - Automotive Quad Low-Side Driver | STMicroelectronics
MPN: L9396L ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $6.4091 | $6.41 |
| 10 | $4.6288 | $46.29 |
| 100 | $4.0947 | $409.47 |
| 500 | $3.9167 | $1,958.35 |
| 1,000 | $3.7386 | $3,738.60 |
L9396L Overview
A low-side driver is a type of power switch that connects the load to ground when activated, with the load connected between the positive supply and the driver output. This configuration is common in automotive body control modules, where multiple loads such as lamps, valves, and actuators must be switched reliably. Low-side drivers are preferred for their simplicity and ease of driving with standard logic-level signals, and they form a key building block in power management and load control systems.
Key features of the L9396L include four high-current outputs, each capable of sourcing significant current to drive a variety of loads. The device incorporates overcurrent protection, thermal shutdown, and overvoltage clamping to safeguard both the IC and the connected loads. Its logic inputs are compatible with 3.3V and 5V microcontrollers, simplifying integration with modern automotive ECUs. The wide operating temperature range of -40°C to +150°C ensures reliable performance in harsh under-hood environments.
Technically, the L9396L uses a robust bipolar/CMOS/DMOS (BCD) process technology, which combines low on-resistance power transistors with precise analog control circuitry. This architecture minimizes power dissipation and ensures fast switching times, reducing electromagnetic interference (EMI) in automotive networks. The device also features a serial peripheral interface (SPI) for advanced diagnostics and control, allowing the microcontroller to read fault status and configure output behavior, which is critical for safety-critical applications.
Typical applications include automotive body control modules, where the L9396L drives exterior and interior lighting, relays for power windows and door locks, and solenoid valves in transmission or braking systems. It is also used in industrial automation for controlling actuators and in smart power distribution units. The device's ability to handle inductive loads with built-in freewheeling protection makes it ideal for relay and solenoid driving without external clamping diodes.
When designing with the L9396L, ensure adequate PCB copper area for heat dissipation, especially when driving multiple outputs at high current simultaneously. The SPI interface requires proper pull-up resistors and careful layout to maintain signal integrity. Additionally, the supply voltage must be decoupled with a suitable capacitor close to the VCC pin to handle transient currents during switching.
Drop-in alternatives for L9396L — 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 L9396L (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Operating Temperature Range, Package.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
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MC33882
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L9396L Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Number of Outputs | 4 |
| Output Type | Low-Side |
| Supply Voltage Range | 4.5 V to 36 V |
| Output Current per Channel | 1.5 A |
| On-Resistance (RDS(on)) | 0.5 ohm |
| Input Logic Level | 3.3 V / 5 V compatible |
| Interface | SPI |
| Protection Features | Overcurrent, Thermal Shutdown, Overvoltage Clamp |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40°C to +150°C |
| Package | PowerSO-20 |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
| AEC-Q100 Qualified | Yes |
| Quiescent Current | 5 mA |
| Switching Frequency | 1 kHz |
L9396L Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | OUT1 — Low-side output 1 |
| Pin 2 | OUT2 — Low-side output 2 |
| Pin 3 | OUT3 — Low-side output 3 |
| Pin 4 | OUT4 — Low-side output 4 |
| Pin 5 | GND — Ground |
| Pin 6 | VCC — Supply voltage |
| Pin 7 | SCK — SPI clock |
| Pin 8 | SDI — SPI data input |
| Pin 9 | SDO — SPI data output |
| Pin 10 | CS — SPI chip select |
| Pin 11 | IN1 — Logic input for OUT1 |
| Pin 12 | IN2 — Logic input for OUT2 |
| Pin 13 | IN3 — Logic input for OUT3 |
| Pin 14 | IN4 — Logic input for OUT4 |
| Pin 15 | NC — Not connected |
| Pin 16 | NC — Not connected |
| Pin 17 | NC — Not connected |
| Pin 18 | NC — Not connected |
| Pin 19 | NC — Not connected |
| Pin 20 | NC — Not connected |
Typical Applications
L9396L is suitable for 6 applications: Automotive Body Control Module, Industrial Automation, Smart Power Distribution, LED Lighting Control, Relay and Solenoid Driving, Motor Control.
Automotive Body Control Module
The L9396L is ideal for automotive body control modules (BCMs) where it drives exterior and interior lighting, relays for power windows, door locks, and other body functions. Its four high-current outputs and SPI diagnostics enable efficient load management and fault detection. The wide supply voltage range (4.5V-36V) accommodates both 12V and 24V vehicle systems, while the AEC-Q100 qualification ensures reliability in harsh automotive environments. The device's built-in protection features, such as overcurrent and thermal shutdown, protect the BCM and connected loads from faults, reducing warranty claims and improving system safety. The SPI interface allows the central ECU to monitor each output's status and respond to faults in real time, which is critical for modern vehicles with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).
Recommended
Industrial Automation
In industrial automation, the L9396L is used to drive solenoids, actuators, and indicator lamps in programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and motor control centers. Its robust design and wide operating temperature range (-40°C to +150°C) make it suitable for factory floor environments. The device's SPI interface enables remote monitoring and diagnostics, allowing maintenance personnel to identify faulty loads without physical inspection. The low on-resistance (0.5 ohm) minimizes power loss, improving energy efficiency in systems that operate continuously. Additionally, the overvoltage clamp protects the driver from inductive kickback when switching solenoids, eliminating the need for external clamping diodes and reducing component count.
Recommended
Smart Power Distribution
The L9396L is well-suited for smart power distribution units (PDUs) in automotive and industrial applications, where it provides intelligent switching and protection for multiple loads. Its SPI interface allows the system controller to manage power distribution dynamically, turning off non-critical loads during peak demand or fault conditions. The device's current sensing capability (via SPI) enables load monitoring and predictive maintenance, reducing downtime. The compact PowerSO-20 package saves PCB space, allowing for high-density designs in limited enclosures. The device's thermal shutdown prevents damage from overloads, ensuring safe operation in demanding environments.
Recommended
LED Lighting Control
The L9396L can be used to control LED lighting in automotive and industrial applications, providing high-current switching with PWM capability. Each output can drive up to 1.5A, suitable for high-power LEDs or multiple LED strings. The device's fast switching speed (up to 1 kHz) enables PWM dimming without visible flicker. The SPI interface allows for individual channel control and fault reporting, enabling advanced lighting features such as dynamic turn signals or adaptive headlights. The overcurrent protection prevents LED damage from short circuits, while the thermal shutdown ensures safe operation in high-temperature environments.
Recommended
Relay and Solenoid Driving
The L9396L is specifically designed for driving relays and solenoids in automotive and industrial systems. Its built-in freewheeling protection handles the inductive kickback, eliminating the need for external flyback diodes. The device can drive relays with coil currents up to 1.5A, making it suitable for power relays in motor control or lighting systems. The SPI interface provides diagnostic feedback, allowing the system to detect relay failures such as welded contacts or open coils. The wide supply voltage range ensures compatibility with various relay coil voltages, and the thermal shutdown protects the driver from overheating during prolonged activation.
Recommended
Motor Control
The L9396L can be used in low-power motor control applications, such as driving small DC motors or stepper motors in automotive and industrial systems. Its four outputs can be configured to drive a single motor in H-bridge configuration or multiple motors independently. The device's current capability (1.5A per channel) is suitable for small motors, and the SPI interface allows for precise control and monitoring. The overcurrent protection prevents motor stall damage, while the thermal shutdown ensures safe operation under continuous load. The device's fast switching speed enables PWM speed control with minimal losses.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for L9396L — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | VNQ7004 | TLE6228 | MC33882 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | PowerSO-20 | PowerSO-20 | PowerSO-20 | PowerSO-20 |
| Brand | STMicroelectronics | STMicroelectronics | Infineon | NXP Semiconductors |
| Number of Outputs | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Output Current per Channel | 1.5 A | 1.5 A | 1.2 A | 1.0 A |
| Supply Voltage Range | 4.5 V to 36 V | 4.5 V to 36 V | 4.5 V to 32 V | 5.5 V to 26 V |
| Interface | SPI | SPI | SPI | SPI |
| AEC-Q100 Qualified | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| On-Resistance | 0.5 ohm | 0.5 ohm | 0.6 ohm | 0.8 ohm |
Key Differentiators
- Higher output current per channel (1.5A) compared to TLE6228 (1.2A) and MC33882 (1.0A) (vs TLE6228, MC33882)
- Wider supply voltage range (4.5V-36V) than TLE6228 (4.5V-32V) and MC33882 (5.5V-26V) (vs TLE6228, MC33882)
- Lower on-resistance (0.5 ohm) than TLE6228 (0.6 ohm) and MC33882 (0.8 ohm) (vs TLE6228, MC33882)
Design Notes
The L9396L in PowerSO-20 package has a thermal resistance of approximately 30°C/W (junction-to-ambient) with proper PCB copper area. When driving all four outputs at 1.5A each, the total power dissipation can reach 4.5W (P = I^2 * RDS(on) * 4 = 1.5^2 * 0.5 * 4). This would cause a temperature rise of 135°C above ambient, which is unacceptable. Ensure adequate heatsinking, such as a large copper pour on the PCB and possibly a heatsink, to keep the junction temperature below 150°C.
Place a 100nF ceramic capacitor and a 10uF electrolytic capacitor close to the VCC pin to decouple the supply and handle transient currents during switching. The exposed pad on the PowerSO-20 package should be soldered to a thermal pad on the PCB with multiple vias to improve heat transfer. Keep SPI signal traces short and avoid routing them near high-current output traces to minimize noise coupling.
When driving inductive loads, ensure the built-in freewheeling protection is sufficient for the load's energy. For large inductances, additional external clamping may be needed. Also, the SPI interface requires proper pull-up resistors on the CS and SCK lines to avoid floating states during power-up. Do not exceed the absolute maximum supply voltage of 40V, as this can damage the device.
Compliance Information
RoHS compliant and AEC-Q100 qualified per STMicroelectronics product page. Halogen-free status not specified in available data.
