L9953SB - SPI Controlled 8-Channel Low-Side Driver | STMicroelectronics
MPN: L9953SB ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $6.5 | $6.50 |
| 10 | $5.85 | $58.50 |
| 100 | $5.2 | $520.00 |
| 500 | $4.68 | $2,340.00 |
| 1,000 | $4.16 | $4,160.00 |
L9953SB Overview
A low-side driver is a type of power switch that connects the load to ground when activated, allowing the microcontroller to control high-side loads indirectly. In automotive systems, low-side drivers are essential for driving inductive loads like relays and solenoids, where the driver must handle back-EMF and provide diagnostic feedback. The L9953SB belongs to the family of smart power switches, which integrate protection and diagnostic features to enhance system reliability. These devices are part of the broader power management IC category, bridging the gap between logic-level control signals and high-power loads.
Key features of the L9953SB include eight low-side outputs with a maximum current rating of 1.2A per channel, a 16-bit SPI interface for control and diagnostics, and built-in protection against overcurrent, overtemperature, and short-circuit conditions. The device also provides open-load detection and a dedicated status output for fault reporting. The SPI interface operates at clock frequencies up to 5MHz, allowing fast and reliable communication with microcontrollers. The PowerSO-36 package ensures efficient heat dissipation, with a thermal resistance of 35°C/W, enabling continuous operation at high ambient temperatures.
From a technical perspective, the L9953SB utilizes a robust BCD (Bipolar-CMOS-DMOS) process technology, which combines the advantages of bipolar, CMOS, and DMOS transistors. This process enables high-voltage operation, low quiescent current, and precise analog control. The device includes a 16-bit shift register for SPI communication, with daisy-chain capability for multiple devices on a single bus. The output stages are designed to handle inductive loads with integrated freewheeling diodes, reducing the need for external components. The device also features a low quiescent current of 10µA in standby mode, making it suitable for battery-powered applications.
Typical applications include automotive body control modules, where the L9953SB drives relays for lights, wipers, and door locks. It is also used in industrial automation for controlling solenoids and valves, and in LED lighting systems for dimming and switching. The SPI interface allows for real-time diagnostics, enabling predictive maintenance and fault detection in critical systems. The device's wide operating temperature range of -40°C to +150°C ensures reliable operation in harsh environments.
When designing with the L9953SB, it is essential to provide adequate decoupling on the power supply pins and to ensure proper thermal management by connecting the exposed pad to a large copper area on the PCB. The SPI lines should be kept short and shielded to minimize noise, and the device's diagnostic features should be utilized to monitor load conditions and detect faults early. By following these guidelines, designers can maximize the reliability and performance of their systems.
Drop-in alternatives for L9953SB — 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 L9953SB (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Number of Channels, Package.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
L9953
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
L9953XP
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$4.06 / Unit
View Datasheet →MC33879
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
TLE6228
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
L9953SB Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Number of Channels | 8 low-side outputs |
| Output Current per Channel | 1.2 A |
| Supply Voltage (Logic) | 4.5 V to 5.5 V |
| Supply Voltage (Power) | 4.5 V to 28 V |
| SPI Interface | 16-bit, up to 5 MHz |
| Quiescent Current (Standby) | 10 µA |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40°C to +150°C |
| Package | PowerSO-36 Exposed Bottom Pad |
| Thermal Resistance, Junction-to-Ambient | 35 °C/W |
| Process Technology | BCD (Bipolar-CMOS-DMOS) |
| Protection Features | Overcurrent, Overtemperature, Short-Circuit |
| Open-Load Detection | Yes |
| Status Output | Dedicated fault reporting |
| Freewheeling Diodes | Integrated for inductive loads |
| Daisy-Chain Capability | Yes |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
L9953SB Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | OUT1 — Low-side output channel 1 |
| Pin 2 | OUT2 — Low-side output channel 2 |
| Pin 3 | OUT3 — Low-side output channel 3 |
| Pin 4 | OUT4 — Low-side output channel 4 |
| Pin 5 | OUT5 — Low-side output channel 5 |
| Pin 6 | OUT6 — Low-side output channel 6 |
| Pin 7 | OUT7 — Low-side output channel 7 |
| Pin 8 | OUT8 — Low-side output channel 8 |
| Pin 9 | VCC — Logic supply voltage (4.5V to 5.5V) |
| Pin 10 | GND — Ground |
| Pin 11 | VS — Power supply voltage (4.5V to 28V) |
| Pin 12 | SCK — SPI clock input |
| Pin 13 | SDI — SPI data input |
| Pin 14 | SDO — SPI data output |
| Pin 15 | CS — SPI chip select (active low) |
| Pin 16 | STATUS — Fault status output |
Typical Applications
L9953SB is suitable for 6 applications: Automotive Body Control Module, Industrial Automation Solenoid Control, LED Lighting Control, Door Actuator Driver, Relay Driver for Power Distribution, HVAC Actuator Control.
Automotive Body Control Module
The L9953SB is ideal for automotive body control modules where it drives relays for lights, wipers, and door locks. Its 8 low-side outputs can control multiple loads, and the SPI interface provides real-time diagnostics for fault detection. The wide operating temperature range of -40°C to +150°C ensures reliable operation in harsh automotive environments. The device's built-in protection against overcurrent, overtemperature, and short-circuit conditions enhances system reliability. According to the STMicroelectronics datasheet, the L9953SB is specifically designed for automotive door actuator applications, making it a perfect fit for body control modules.
Recommended
Industrial Automation Solenoid Control
In industrial automation, the L9953SB is used to control solenoids and valves in pneumatic and hydraulic systems. Its 8 low-side outputs can drive multiple solenoids, and the SPI interface allows for precise control and monitoring. The device's low quiescent current of 10µA in standby mode is beneficial for energy-efficient systems. The built-in freewheeling diodes handle the inductive load of solenoids, reducing the need for external components. According to the STMicroelectronics datasheet, the device's robust protection features ensure reliable operation in demanding industrial environments.
Recommended
LED Lighting Control
The L9953SB is suitable for LED lighting systems where it provides switching and dimming control. Its 8 low-side outputs can drive multiple LED strings, and the SPI interface enables precise brightness control. The device's wide supply voltage range of 4.5V to 28V makes it compatible with various LED power supplies. The open-load detection feature helps identify faulty LED strings, improving system reliability. According to the STMicroelectronics datasheet, the device's thermal performance in the PowerSO-36 package supports continuous operation in lighting applications.
Recommended
Door Actuator Driver
The L9953SB is specifically designed as a door actuator driver for automotive applications. It can drive up to three DC motors and three grounded resistive loads using five half bridges and three highside drivers. The integrated SPI interface controls all operation modes including forward, reverse, brake, and high impedance. According to the STMicroelectronics datasheet, the device provides comprehensive diagnostic feedback, making it ideal for smart door systems. The PowerSO-36 package ensures efficient heat dissipation for continuous motor operation.
Recommended
Relay Driver for Power Distribution
The L9953SB is used to drive relays in power distribution systems, such as those found in automotive fuse boxes and industrial control panels. Its 8 low-side outputs can control multiple relays, and the SPI interface provides status monitoring. The device's built-in protection against overcurrent and short-circuit conditions prevents damage to the relays and the driver itself. According to the STMicroelectronics datasheet, the device's wide operating temperature range makes it suitable for various environments. The low quiescent current is beneficial for always-on systems.
Recommended
HVAC Actuator Control
The L9953SB is used in HVAC systems to control actuators for air dampers and valves. Its 8 low-side outputs can drive multiple actuators, and the SPI interface enables precise positioning. The device's wide supply voltage range of 4.5V to 28V is compatible with various HVAC power supplies. The built-in diagnostic features help detect actuator faults, improving system reliability. According to the STMicroelectronics datasheet, the device's robust design ensures reliable operation in the demanding HVAC environment.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for L9953SB — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | L9953 | L9953XP | MC33879 | TLE6228 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | PowerSO-36 | PowerSO-36 - same | PowerSO-36 - same | PowerSO-36 - same | PowerSO-36 - same |
| Brand | STMicroelectronics | STMicroelectronics | STMicroelectronics | NXP Semiconductors | Infineon |
| Number of Channels | 8 low-side | 8 low-side | 8 low-side | 8 low-side | 8 low-side |
Key Differentiators
- 8 low-side outputs with 1.2A per channel (vs MC33879)
- Wide operating temperature range of -40°C to +150°C (vs TLE6228)
- Low quiescent current of 10µA in standby (vs MC33879)
Design Notes
Ensure adequate decoupling on the VCC and VS pins. Place a 100nF ceramic capacitor close to each supply pin and a 10µF electrolytic capacitor on the VS pin to handle transient currents. According to the STMicroelectronics datasheet, proper decoupling is essential for stable operation and to prevent voltage spikes that could damage the device.
The PowerSO-36 package has a thermal resistance of 35°C/W. For high-current applications, connect the exposed pad to a large copper area on the PCB to improve heat dissipation. According to the STMicroelectronics datasheet, this is critical for maintaining junction temperature within safe limits, especially at high ambient temperatures up to 150°C.
Keep SPI lines (SCK, SDI, SDO, CS) short and shielded to minimize noise and ensure reliable communication at up to 5MHz. According to the STMicroelectronics datasheet, proper PCB layout is important for signal integrity, especially in automotive environments with high electromagnetic interference.
Compliance Information
RoHS compliance is indicated in the internal database. Other compliance information is not explicitly stated in the provided data.