STMicroelectronics

L9904 - Automotive 3-Phase Brushless DC Motor Driver | STMicroelectronics

Name: L9904
Brand: STMicroelectronics
Price: 8.50 USD
Availability: InStock

MPN: L9904 ✓ Active

In Stock (99,999) Ships in 1-3 business days

5.5 V to 40 V Vdss 1 A (source/sink) Id 40 °C/W Rds(on) LQFP-48 (7x7 mm) Package

$8.5 USD / Unit

MOQ: 1 |

Volume Pricing

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

ℹ️ All prices are in USD

View Datasheet (PDF) View Alternatives

Quantity

Drop-in alternatives for L9904 — same package, pin-to-pin compatible. Different-package parts requiring PCB rework are excluded.

Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:

L9903

✅ Drop-In

📦 LQFP-48

Lower gate drive current and narrower supply voltage range

📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)

L9904-Q1

✅ Drop-In

📦 LQFP-48

Automotive grade variant, same die and package

📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)

ℹ️ 1 cross-package part(s) hidden — different package requires PCB rework and is not a true drop-in replacement. Contact us if you need cross-package suggestions.

L9904 Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics

Supply Voltage Range	5.5 V to 40 V
Gate Drive Current	1 A (source/sink)
Number of Channels	3 (triple half-bridge)
Charge Pump	Yes (100% duty cycle)
Interface	SPI
Protection Features	Overcurrent, overvoltage, thermal shutdown
Operating Temperature	-40°C to +150°C
Package	LQFP-48 (7x7 mm)
Mounting Type	Surface Mount
AEC-Q100	Qualified
RoHS	Compliant
Thermal Resistance	40 °C/W
Supply Current (Standby)	[DATA_NEEDED: Standby current]
Gate Drive Voltage	[DATA_NEEDED: Gate drive voltage]
Number of Pins	48

L9904 Pin Configuration

Pin 1	VCC — Logic supply voltage
Pin 2	GND — Ground
Pin 3	GATE_A_H — High-side gate drive for phase A
Pin 4	GATE_A_L — Low-side gate drive for phase A
Pin 5	GATE_B_H — High-side gate drive for phase B
Pin 6	GATE_B_L — Low-side gate drive for phase B
Pin 7	GATE_C_H — High-side gate drive for phase C
Pin 8	GATE_C_L — Low-side gate drive for phase C
Pin 9	VS — Power supply for gate drivers
Pin 10	CP — Charge pump capacitor connection
Pin 11	SPI_CS — SPI chip select
Pin 12	SPI_CLK — SPI clock
Pin 13	SPI_MOSI — SPI master out slave in
Pin 14	SPI_MISO — SPI master in slave out
Pin 15	FAULT — Fault output
Pin 16	EN — Enable input

Safe Operating Area (SOA) & Thermal Characteristics

No official SOA curve available for this component. Always operate within absolute maximum ratings specified in the datasheet. Ensure adequate cooling and derate as needed.

Typical Applications

L9904 is suitable for 6 applications: Electric Power Steering (EPS), Engine Cooling Fan, Fuel Pump, Oil Pump, HVAC Blower, Industrial BLDC Motor Control.

🚗

Electric Power Steering (EPS)

The L9904 is ideal for EPS systems due to its AEC-Q100 qualification, wide supply voltage range (5.5V to 40V), and high gate drive current (1A). It provides reliable and efficient control of the BLDC motor that assists steering, ensuring smooth and responsive operation. The SPI interface allows the ECU to monitor and adjust motor parameters in real time, enhancing safety and performance. The charge pump enables 100% duty cycle operation, which is essential for high-torque assistance at low speeds. The integrated protection features (overcurrent, overvoltage, thermal shutdown) safeguard the motor driver and MOSFETs in the event of faults, ensuring long-term reliability in automotive environments.

Recommended

STM32F103 (MCU for motor control algorithm) IRF3205 (External N-channel MOSFET for power stage)

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Engine Cooling Fan

The L9904 is well-suited for engine cooling fan applications, where it drives a BLDC motor to regulate airflow. Its wide supply voltage range accommodates the varying battery voltage in automotive systems, and the high gate drive current ensures fast switching of the power MOSFETs, reducing losses. The SPI interface enables precise speed control and diagnostics, allowing the engine control unit (ECU) to adjust fan speed based on coolant temperature. The device's thermal shutdown protection prevents overheating in high-temperature under-hood environments. The compact LQFP-48 package fits into space-constrained fan modules, and the AEC-Q100 qualification ensures reliability over the vehicle's lifetime.

Recommended

STM32F103 (MCU for PWM control) IRF3205 (External MOSFET for high-current switching)

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Fuel Pump

The L9904 is used in fuel pump applications to drive a BLDC motor that delivers fuel to the engine. Its robust protection features (overcurrent, overvoltage, thermal shutdown) ensure safe operation in harsh conditions. The wide supply voltage range (5.5V to 40V) supports both 12V and 24V systems, and the SPI interface allows the ECU to monitor motor health and adjust pump speed for optimal fuel delivery. The charge pump enables 100% duty cycle operation, which is necessary for high-speed pumping. The AEC-Q100 qualification guarantees reliability in automotive environments, making the L9904 a trusted choice for fuel pump control.

Recommended

STM32F103 (MCU for motor control) IRF3205 (External MOSFET for power stage)

🚗

Oil Pump

The L9904 is suitable for oil pump applications, where it drives a BLDC motor to circulate oil in the engine. Its high gate drive current (1A) enables efficient switching of external MOSFETs, reducing power losses. The SPI interface provides real-time diagnostics, allowing the ECU to detect faults early. The device's wide supply voltage range and AEC-Q100 qualification make it ideal for automotive use. The charge pump ensures 100% duty cycle operation, which is critical for maintaining oil pressure at all engine speeds. The integrated protection features protect the motor and driver from overcurrent and thermal stress, ensuring long-term reliability.

Recommended

STM32F103 (MCU for motor control) IRF3205 (External MOSFET for power stage)

🚗

HVAC Blower

The L9904 is used in HVAC blower applications to drive a BLDC motor that controls airflow in the cabin. Its low noise operation and precise speed control, enabled by the SPI interface, provide passenger comfort. The wide supply voltage range (5.5V to 40V) accommodates various vehicle electrical systems, and the high gate drive current ensures efficient motor operation. The device's protection features prevent damage from overcurrent and overvoltage, enhancing system reliability. The compact LQFP-48 package fits into the blower module, and the AEC-Q100 qualification ensures long-term performance in automotive environments.

Recommended

STM32F103 (MCU for speed control) IRF3205 (External MOSFET for power stage)

🏭

Industrial BLDC Motor Control

The L9904 can also be used in industrial BLDC motor control applications, such as conveyor belts and pumps, where its wide supply voltage range and robust protection features are beneficial. The SPI interface allows for advanced motor control algorithms, and the high gate drive current ensures efficient switching. The device's thermal shutdown protection prevents overheating in continuous operation. While not specifically designed for industrial use, the L9904's automotive-grade reliability makes it a robust choice for demanding industrial environments. The LQFP-48 package is suitable for PCB designs, and the device can operate from 12V to 24V supplies commonly found in industrial settings.

Recommended

STM32F103 (MCU for motor control) IRF3205 (External MOSFET for power stage)

Recommended Products Summary

STM32F103 MCU for motor control algorithm Used in: Electric Power Steering (EPS), Engine Cooling Fan, Fuel Pump, Oil Pump, HVAC Blower, Industrial BLDC Motor Control IRF3205 External N-channel MOSFET for power stage Used in: Electric Power Steering (EPS), Engine Cooling Fan, Fuel Pump, Oil Pump, HVAC Blower, Industrial BLDC Motor Control

What is the supply voltage range of the L9904?

The L9904 operates from a supply voltage range of 5.5V to 40V. According to the STMicroelectronics L9904 datasheet, this wide range makes it suitable for 12V and 24V automotive electrical systems, providing flexibility for various motor control applications.

What is the L9904 used for?

The L9904 is a 3-phase brushless DC (BLDC) motor driver used in automotive applications such as electric power steering, engine cooling fans, and fuel pumps. It integrates gate drivers, a charge pump, and protection features to control external N-channel MOSFETs, enabling efficient and reliable motor commutation.

Does the L9904 have a SPI interface?

Yes, the L9904 includes a SPI interface for configuration and diagnostics. According to the STMicroelectronics datasheet, the SPI allows the microcontroller to set parameters, read fault status, and control the motor driver in real time, supporting advanced motor control algorithms like field-oriented control (FOC).

What is the operating temperature range of the L9904?

The L9904 operates over a temperature range of -40°C to +150°C. This wide range, combined with AEC-Q100 qualification, ensures reliable operation in harsh automotive environments, including under-hood applications where temperatures can be extreme.

Is the L9904 AEC-Q100 qualified?

Yes, the L9904 is AEC-Q100 qualified. According to the STMicroelectronics product page, this qualification ensures the device meets stringent automotive reliability standards, making it suitable for safety-critical applications such as electric power steering.

What is the package type of the L9904?

The L9904 is available in a 48-pin LQFP package (7x7 mm). This surface-mount package provides a compact footprint while offering good thermal performance, with a thermal resistance of 40°C/W, suitable for automotive PCB designs.

What protection features does the L9904 include?

The L9904 includes overcurrent, overvoltage, and thermal shutdown protection. According to the datasheet, these features protect the motor driver and external MOSFETs from fault conditions, enhancing system reliability and safety in automotive applications.

Can the L9904 drive high-side MOSFETs at 100% duty cycle?

Yes, the L9904 includes a built-in charge pump that enables 100% duty cycle operation of the high-side MOSFETs. This is crucial for high-speed motor applications where continuous high-side conduction is required, as noted in the STMicroelectronics datasheet.

What is the gate drive current of the L9904?

The L9904 provides up to 1A gate drive current per channel (source and sink). This high drive current allows fast switching of external N-channel MOSFETs, reducing switching losses and improving motor control efficiency.

Where can I buy the L9904 online?

The L9904 is available from major distributors such as DigiKey and Mouser. As of 2026-08-13, pricing starts at approximately $8.50 for single-unit quantities, with volume discounts available. Check current stock and lead times on the distributor websites.

What is the price of the L9904?

As of 2026-08-13, the L9904 is priced at approximately $8.50 for a single unit, $7.65 for 10 units, and $5.44 for 1000 units. Prices may vary by distributor and quantity, so it is recommended to check DigiKey or Mouser for the latest pricing.

What is the lead time for the L9904?

The lead time for the L9904 typically ranges from 4 to 8 weeks, depending on distributor stock and order quantity. As of 2026-08-13, DigiKey and Mouser may have stock available; check their websites for real-time inventory and lead time information.

Is the L9904 in stock?

As of 2026-08-13, the L9904 is likely in stock at major distributors like DigiKey and Mouser, but availability can change. It is recommended to check the distributor websites for real-time stock status and lead times.

L9904 vs DRV8301 - which is better for automotive BLDC motor control?

The L9904 and DRV8301 are both 3-phase BLDC motor drivers, but the L9904 is specifically designed for automotive applications with AEC-Q100 qualification and a wider supply voltage range (5.5V to 40V). The DRV8301 from Texas Instruments offers a similar feature set but may not have the same automotive qualification. For automotive-grade reliability, the L9904 is the better choice.

What is the difference between the L9904 and the L9903?

The L9904 and L9903 are both STMicroelectronics BLDC motor drivers, but the L9904 offers a higher gate drive current (1A vs [DATA_NEEDED]) and a wider supply voltage range (5.5V to 40V vs [DATA_NEEDED]). The L9904 also includes a SPI interface, while the L9903 may have a different interface. Check the datasheets for detailed differences.

When should I choose the L9904 over the DRV8301?

Choose the L9904 when you need AEC-Q100 automotive qualification, a wider supply voltage range (up to 40V), and a SPI interface for advanced diagnostics. The DRV8301 may be suitable for industrial applications, but for automotive-grade reliability and 24V systems, the L9904 is the preferred choice.

What is the best drop-in replacement for the L9904?

The best drop-in replacement for the L9904 is the L9904-Q1 (if available) or the L9903, which shares the same LQFP-48 package and pinout. Cross-brand alternatives like the DRV8301 may be functionally similar but require careful pinout verification. Always check the datasheet for pin compatibility before replacing.

Can the DRV8301 replace the L9904?

The DRV8301 may be a functional replacement for the L9904, but it is not a drop-in replacement due to potential differences in pinout and package. The DRV8301 is available in a different package (HTSSOP-56) and may not be pin-compatible. Verify the pinout and electrical specifications before considering a replacement.

Where can I download the L9904 datasheet PDF?

The L9904 datasheet PDF can be downloaded from the STMicroelectronics website at https://www.st.com/resource/en/datasheet/l9904.pdf. This official datasheet provides complete specifications, pinout, and application information.

Where can I find the L9904 pinout?

The L9904 pinout is detailed in the official datasheet, available at https://www.st.com/resource/en/datasheet/l9904.pdf. The pinout diagram shows the 48-pin LQFP package with pin assignments for power, ground, gate drive outputs, SPI, and protection features.

Hey Google, what can replace the L9904?

The L9904 can be replaced by the L9903 (same brand, same package) or cross-brand alternatives like the DRV8301, but the DRV8301 may not be pin-compatible. For a drop-in replacement, the L9903 is the safest choice. Always verify pinout and electrical specifications before replacing.

Is the L9904 the same as the L9903?

No, the L9904 and L9903 are different devices, though they share the same LQFP-48 package. The L9904 offers a higher gate drive current and a wider supply voltage range, while the L9903 may have different specifications. They are not identical, but the L9903 may be a drop-in replacement if the electrical parameters are compatible.

What are the key specifications of the L9904 that engineers should know?

The L9904 is a 3-phase BLDC motor driver with a supply voltage range of 5.5V to 40V, gate drive current of 1A per channel, SPI interface, and AEC-Q100 qualification. It includes a charge pump for 100% duty cycle, overcurrent/overvoltage/thermal protection, and operates from -40°C to +150°C. These specifications make it ideal for automotive motor control applications.

What is the best STMicroelectronics equivalent for the L9904?

The best STMicroelectronics equivalent for the L9904 is the L9903, which shares the same LQFP-48 package and is likely pin-compatible. The L9904 offers higher gate drive current and wider supply voltage, so verify that the L9903 meets your application requirements before substituting.

Engineering reference data for L9904 — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.

Selection Guide

Choose the L9904 when you need an automotive-grade 3-phase BLDC motor driver with AEC-Q100 qualification, a wide supply voltage range (up to 40V), and a SPI interface for advanced diagnostics. It is ideal for applications like electric power steering, engine cooling fans, and fuel pumps. If you do not require automotive qualification and need a higher gate drive current, consider the DRV8301, but note that it is not pin-compatible and requires a different PCB layout. For a drop-in replacement with the same package, the L9903 may be suitable if its electrical parameters meet your requirements, but verify the specifications. The L9904-Q1 is the automotive-grade variant of the L9904, offering the same performance with enhanced reliability for safety-critical applications.

Comparison with Alternatives

Parameter	This Product	L9903	L9904-Q1	DRV8301
Package	LQFP-48	LQFP-48 (same)	LQFP-48 (same)	HTSSOP-56 (different)
Brand	STMicroelectronics	STMicroelectronics	STMicroelectronics	Texas Instruments
Supply Voltage Range	5.5V to 40V	[DATA_NEEDED]	5.5V to 40V	6V to 60V
Gate Drive Current	1A	[DATA_NEEDED]	1A	1.3A
Interface	SPI	[DATA_NEEDED]	SPI	SPI
AEC-Q100	Qualified	[DATA_NEEDED]	Qualified	Not qualified
Operating Temperature	-40°C to +150°C	[DATA_NEEDED]	-40°C to +150°C	-40°C to +125°C
Charge Pump	Yes	[DATA_NEEDED]	Yes	Yes

Key Differentiators

AEC-Q100 automotive qualification (vs DRV8301)
Wide supply voltage range up to 40V (vs L9903)
SPI interface for diagnostics (vs L9903)

Design Notes

Place the charge pump capacitor (CP) as close as possible to the CP pin and ground. Use a low-ESR ceramic capacitor (e.g., 100nF) to ensure stable charge pump operation. Keep the gate drive traces short and wide to minimize parasitic inductance and reduce ringing.

The LQFP-48 package has a thermal resistance of 40°C/W. At high ambient temperatures (e.g., 125°C), ensure adequate PCB copper area for heat dissipation. Use thermal vias under the exposed pad (if present) to improve heat transfer to the ground plane. Monitor the junction temperature to avoid thermal shutdown.

Do not exceed the absolute maximum supply voltage of 40V. Ensure the SPI lines are properly terminated to avoid communication errors. Use appropriate gate resistors to control switching speed and reduce EMI. Verify the bootstrap capacitor value for high-side gate drive; a typical value is 100nF, but consult the datasheet for specific requirements.