L9698 - Automotive Quad Low-Side Driver | STMicroelectronics
MPN: L9698 ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $3.25 | $3.25 |
| 10 | $2.95 | $29.50 |
| 100 | $2.65 | $265.00 |
| 500 | $2.35 | $1,175.00 |
| 1,000 | $2.1 | $2,100.00 |
L9698 Overview
A low-side driver is a type of power switch that connects the load to ground when activated, commonly used to drive relays, solenoids, lamps, and resistive loads. In automotive systems, low-side drivers are essential for controlling actuators and indicators, where the load is connected between the battery positive and the driver output. The L9698 belongs to the family of smart power switches, which integrate protection and diagnostic functions to enhance system reliability and reduce external component count.
Key features of the L9698 include four independent channels with a maximum output current of 1.5A per channel, a low ON-state resistance of 0.5 ohm, and a standby current of only 10 uA. The device also features a serial peripheral interface (SPI) for advanced diagnostics and control, allowing the microcontroller to read fault status and control each output independently. The SPI interface operates at up to 5 MHz, enabling fast communication in real-time control systems.
From a technical perspective, the L9698 utilizes a smart power technology that integrates CMOS control logic with high-voltage power MOSFETs on a single chip. This architecture ensures efficient switching with minimal power loss, while the built-in protection circuits prevent damage from overload conditions. The device also includes a thermal shutdown feature that disables the outputs if the junction temperature exceeds 150°C, protecting the IC and the load from thermal stress.
Typical applications for the L9698 include automotive body control modules, where it drives exterior lights, interior lighting, and small motors. It is also used in industrial automation for controlling solenoids and relays, and in smart power distribution systems. The wide supply voltage range and robust protection make it ideal for harsh environments.
When designing with the L9698, it is important to consider the thermal dissipation, especially when driving multiple channels at high current. The PowerSO-20 package has a thermal resistance of 35°C/W, and adequate PCB copper area should be provided for heat sinking. Additionally, the SPI interface requires proper pull-up resistors on the data lines to ensure reliable communication.
Drop-in alternatives for L9698 — 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 L9698 (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Package.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
VNQ7004SY
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
L9698-TR
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.82 / Unit
View Datasheet →BTS724G
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
MC33882
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
L9698 Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Number of Channels | 4 |
| Output Current per Channel | 1.5 A |
| Supply Voltage Range | 4.5 V to 40 V |
| ON-State Resistance | 0.5 ohm |
| Standby Current | 10 uA |
| SPI Interface | Yes, up to 5 MHz |
| Overcurrent Protection | Yes |
| Overtemperature Protection | Yes (150°C shutdown) |
| Short-Circuit Protection | Yes |
| Package | PowerSO-20 |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40°C to +150°C |
| Thermal Resistance, Junction-to-Ambient | 35 °C/W |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
| AEC-Q100 Qualified | Yes |
L9698 Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | OUT1 — Output channel 1 |
| Pin 2 | OUT2 — Output channel 2 |
| Pin 3 | OUT3 — Output channel 3 |
| Pin 4 | OUT4 — Output channel 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 — Chip select |
| Pin 11 | EN1 — Enable channel 1 |
| Pin 12 | EN2 — Enable channel 2 |
| Pin 13 | EN3 — Enable channel 3 |
| Pin 14 | EN4 — Enable channel 4 |
| 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
L9698 is suitable for 6 applications: Automotive Body Control Module, Industrial Automation, Smart Power Distribution, LED Lighting Control, Relay and Solenoid Driver, Automotive Lighting.
Automotive Body Control Module
The L9698 is ideal for automotive body control modules where it drives exterior lights, interior lighting, and small motors. Its four channels can independently control different loads, and the SPI interface allows the microcontroller to monitor and control each channel. The wide supply voltage range (4.5V to 40V) accommodates both 12V and 24V systems, and the AEC-Q100 qualification ensures reliability in harsh automotive environments. The low ON-state resistance (0.5 ohm) minimizes power loss, and the protection features prevent damage from overcurrent and overtemperature conditions.
Recommended
Industrial Automation
In industrial automation, the L9698 is used to control solenoids, relays, and actuators. Its robust protection features ensure reliable operation in factory environments where electrical noise and overloads are common. The SPI interface enables remote diagnostics, allowing the control system to detect faults and take corrective action. The device's ability to operate from a wide supply voltage range makes it suitable for various industrial power rails, and the thermal shutdown feature protects the device during prolonged overload conditions.
Recommended
Smart Power Distribution
The L9698 is used in smart power distribution systems to switch loads on and off with diagnostic feedback. Its SPI interface allows the system to monitor current and temperature, enabling predictive maintenance and fault detection. The device's low standby current (10 uA) is beneficial for systems that need to conserve power when idle. The high current capability per channel (1.5A) supports a wide range of loads, and the protection features ensure safe operation in case of short circuits or overloads.
Recommended
LED Lighting Control
The L9698 can be used for LED lighting control in automotive and industrial applications. Its four channels can independently drive LED strings, and the PWM capability allows for dimming. The low ON-state resistance ensures minimal voltage drop, maintaining consistent LED brightness. The device's protection features prevent damage from overcurrent, and the wide supply voltage range supports various LED configurations. The SPI interface enables advanced lighting control, such as dynamic turn signals or ambient lighting.
Recommended
Relay and Solenoid Driver
The L9698 is well-suited for driving relays and solenoids in various applications. Its high current capability (1.5A per channel) can drive most automotive relays and small solenoids. The built-in freewheeling diodes (if present) protect against inductive kickback, and the protection features ensure reliable operation. The SPI interface allows the system to monitor the status of each channel, enabling fault detection and diagnostics. The device's wide supply voltage range makes it versatile for different power systems.
Recommended
Automotive Lighting
The L9698 is used in automotive lighting systems to control headlights, taillights, and interior lights. Its four channels can independently control different lighting circuits, and the SPI interface allows for diagnostics and control. The device's AEC-Q100 qualification ensures reliability in automotive environments, and the wide supply voltage range accommodates load dump conditions. The low ON-state resistance minimizes power loss, and the protection features prevent damage from short circuits.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for L9698 — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | VNQ7004SY | L9698-TR | BTS724G | MC33882 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | PowerSO-20 | PowerSO-20 | PowerSO-20 | PowerSO-20 | PowerSO-20 |
| Brand | STMicroelectronics | STMicroelectronics | STMicroelectronics | Infineon | NXP Semiconductors |
| Number of Channels | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Output Current per Channel | 1.5 A | 4 A | 1.5 A | 1.5 A | 1.5 A |
| Supply Voltage Range | 4.5V to 40V | 4.5V to 40V | 4.5V to 40V | 4.5V to 40V | 4.5V to 40V |
| ON-State Resistance | 0.5 ohm | 0.2 ohm | 0.5 ohm | 0.5 ohm | 0.5 ohm |
| SPI Interface | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes |
| AEC-Q100 Qualified | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Key Differentiators
- Higher current capability in same package (vs VNQ7004SY)
- SPI interface for diagnostics (vs BTS724G)
- Lower ON-state resistance (vs MC33882)
Design Notes
The L9698 in PowerSO-20 package has a thermal resistance of 35°C/W. When driving all four channels at 1.5A each, the total power dissipation can be significant. For example, with a supply voltage of 12V and a load voltage drop of 2V, each channel dissipates 3W, totaling 12W. This would cause a junction temperature rise of 420°C, which is unacceptable. Therefore, it is critical to provide adequate heat sinking, such as a large copper area on the PCB and possibly a heatsink. Ensure the junction temperature stays below 150°C.
Place decoupling capacitors (100nF and 10uF) close to the VCC pin to filter high-frequency noise. For the SPI lines, use series resistors (e.g., 33 ohm) to reduce ringing and improve signal integrity. Ensure the ground plane is solid and connected to the exposed pad of the PowerSO-20 package for thermal and electrical performance.
Do not exceed the absolute maximum supply voltage of 40V. When driving inductive loads, ensure freewheeling diodes are connected across the loads to prevent voltage spikes. The SPI interface requires pull-up resistors on the SDO line to ensure proper communication. Also, avoid enabling multiple channels simultaneously without considering the total current draw and thermal limits.
Compliance Information
RoHS compliant and AEC-Q100 qualified per STMicroelectronics datasheet. Halogen-free status not specified.
