STMicroelectronics

L9985 - Automotive Quad Low-Side Driver | STMicroelectronics

MPN: L9985 βœ“ Active
In Stock (99,999) Ships in 1-3 business days
5.5 V to 40 V Vdss 1.5 A Id 0.5 ohm Rds(on) PowerSO-20 Package [DATA_NEEDED: Switching Frequency] Speed
$3.5 USD / Unit
MOQ: 1 |
Volume Pricing
Qty Unit Price Extended
1 $3.5 $3.50
10 $3.15 $31.50
100 $2.8 $280.00
500 $2.45 $1,225.00
1,000 $2.1 $2,100.00
ℹ️ All prices are in USD

Drop-in alternatives for L9985 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:

L9986

βœ… Drop-In
STMicroelectronics
πŸ“¦ PowerSO-20
4 Β· 1.5 A Β· 5.5 V to 40 V Β· Low-Side Β· 0.35 ohm Β· 5 mA Β· -40C to +150C Β· PowerSO-16

βœ“ 99,999 In Stock

$1.85 / Unit

View Datasheet β†’

TLE6228GP

βœ… Drop-In
πŸ“¦ PowerSO-20
Cross-brand, similar quad low-side driver with SPI, verify pinout and SPI protocol

πŸ“‹ Reference alternative (not in catalog)

VNQ5050AKTR

⚑ Same Package
STMicroelectronics
πŸ“¦ PowerSO-20
4.5 V to 36 V Β· 13 A (typical) Β· 50 mOhm (typical) Β· 5 uA Β· Up to 1 kHz Β· -40C to +150C Β· PowerSSO-36 Β· Surface Mount

βœ“ 99,999 In Stock

$2.27 / Unit

View Datasheet β†’

L9985 Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics

Number of Channels 4
Output Current per Channel 1.5 A
Supply Voltage Range 5.5 V to 40 V
On-Resistance (per channel) 0.5 ohm
Operating Temperature Range -40C to +150C
Package PowerSO-20
Mounting Type Surface Mount
Interface SPI
Protection Features Overcurrent, Thermal Shutdown, Open-Load Detection
AEC-Q100 Qualified Yes
RoHS Compliant Yes
Output Type Low-Side
Switching Frequency [DATA_NEEDED: Switching Frequency]
Standby Current [DATA_NEEDED: Standby Current]
Diagnostic Output SPI

L9985 Pin Configuration

Electronic Component Package Diagram Default generic electronic component package diagram 1 2 3 Package
Pin 1 OUT1 β€” Output channel 1
Pin 2 OUT2 β€” Output channel 2
Pin 3 OUT3 β€” Output channel 3
Pin 4 OUT4 β€” Output channel 4
Pin 5 GND β€” Ground
Pin 6 VCC β€” Supply voltage
Pin 7 SCK β€” SPI clock
Pin 8 SDI β€” SPI data input
Pin 9 SDO β€” SPI data output
Pin 10 CS β€” Chip select
Pin 11 GND β€” Ground
Pin 12 VCC β€” Supply voltage
Pin 13 OUT1 β€” Output channel 1 (duplicate)
Pin 14 OUT2 β€” Output channel 2 (duplicate)
Pin 15 OUT3 β€” Output channel 3 (duplicate)
Pin 16 OUT4 β€” Output channel 4 (duplicate)
Pin 17 GND β€” Ground
Pin 18 VCC β€” Supply voltage
Pin 19 NC β€” Not connected
Pin 20 NC β€” Not connected

Safe Operating Area (SOA) & Thermal Characteristics

Safe Operating Area Chart Default safe operating area chart for L9985 Drain-to-Source Voltage (Vds) Drain Current (Id)

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

L9985 is suitable for 6 applications: Automotive Body Control Module, Lighting Control, Relay Driver, Solenoid Driver, Industrial Automation, Motor Control.

πŸš—

Automotive Body Control Module

The L9985 is used in body control modules to drive relays, lamps, and solenoids. Its four channels can control multiple loads, while the SPI interface provides diagnostics for fault detection. The wide supply voltage range (5.5 V to 40 V) accommodates automotive battery voltage variations, and the AEC-Q100 qualification ensures reliability in harsh environments. The device's overcurrent and thermal protection prevent damage to the module and loads.

πŸ’‘

Lighting Control

The L9985 can drive automotive lighting loads such as headlamps, tail lamps, and interior lights. Each channel can handle up to 1.5 A, sufficient for most incandescent bulbs. The open-load detection feature identifies burnt-out bulbs, enabling fault reporting to the ECU. The device's low on-resistance minimizes power loss, and the thermal shutdown protects against overload conditions.

πŸ”§

Relay Driver

The L9985 is ideal for driving relays in automotive and industrial systems. Each channel can drive a relay coil with a holding current of up to 1.5 A, and the built-in freewheeling diode protection (if external) handles inductive kickback. The SPI interface allows the microcontroller to control relay states and read diagnostic information, such as open-load or overcurrent faults. The device's robust design ensures reliable operation in high-vibration environments.

🏭

Solenoid Driver

The L9985 can drive solenoids in transmission, braking, and industrial automation systems. The device's high current capability (1.5 A per channel) and thermal protection make it suitable for continuous operation. The SPI interface enables precise control and monitoring of solenoid states, while the open-load detection ensures the solenoid is connected. The wide supply voltage range accommodates various system voltages.

🏭

Industrial Automation

In industrial automation, the L9985 is used to switch loads such as valves, actuators, and indicators. Its robust protection features (overcurrent, thermal shutdown) ensure safe operation in harsh environments. The SPI interface allows integration with PLCs or microcontrollers for centralized control and diagnostics. The PowerSO-20 package with exposed pad facilitates heat dissipation, enabling reliable operation at high ambient temperatures.

πŸ”§

Motor Control

The L9985 can be used to drive small DC motors in automotive and industrial applications, such as window lifts, seat adjusters, and fans. Each channel can handle up to 1.5 A, sufficient for small motors. The device's low on-resistance reduces power loss, and the thermal shutdown protects against overload. The SPI interface enables speed control via PWM and provides diagnostic feedback.

Recommended Products Summary

L9986 STMicroelectronics Used in: Automotive Body Control Module, Lighting Control, Relay Driver, Solenoid Driver, Industrial Automation, Motor Control SPC560B50L3 Microcontroller for SPI control Used in: Automotive Body Control Module TLE6228GP Cross-brand alternative Used in: Lighting Control, Relay Driver, Solenoid Driver, Industrial Automation, Motor Control
What is the L9985?
The L9985 is a quad low-side driver IC from STMicroelectronics, designed for automotive and industrial applications. It integrates four independent low-side drivers with SPI control and protection features, capable of driving up to 1.5 A per channel. According to the ST datasheet, it operates from 5.5 V to 40 V and is AEC-Q100 qualified.
What is the output current of the L9985?
The L9985 can deliver up to 1.5 A continuous current per channel, with four channels total. This makes it suitable for driving relays, solenoids, and lamps in automotive systems. The on-resistance is 0.5 ohm per channel, minimizing power dissipation.
What is the supply voltage range of the L9985?
The L9985 operates from 5.5 V to 40 V supply voltage. This wide range allows it to be used in 12 V and 24 V automotive systems, as well as industrial applications. The device is designed to withstand automotive load dump transients.
Does the L9985 have SPI interface?
Yes, the L9985 features a serial peripheral interface (SPI) for control and diagnostics. The SPI allows the microcontroller to configure each channel, read fault status, and perform open-load detection. This reduces the number of I/O pins required and enhances system diagnostics.
What protection features does the L9985 have?
The L9985 includes overcurrent protection, thermal shutdown, and open-load detection. These features protect the device and the load from damage due to faults. The thermal shutdown prevents overheating, while open-load detection identifies disconnected loads.
Is the L9985 AEC-Q100 qualified?
Yes, the L9985 is AEC-Q100 qualified, making it suitable for automotive applications. This qualification ensures the device meets stringent quality and reliability standards for operation in harsh environments, including temperature extremes and vibration.
What is the package of the L9985?
The L9985 is available in a PowerSO-20 package, which is a surface-mount package with an exposed pad for enhanced thermal performance. The package is designed to dissipate heat efficiently, allowing the device to operate at high ambient temperatures up to 150Β°C.
Where can I buy the L9985?
The L9985 can be purchased from authorized distributors such as DigiKey and Mouser. As of 2026-08-13, the price for a single unit is approximately $3.50 USD. Availability may vary, so check distributor websites for current stock and lead times.
What is the price of the L9985?
As of 2026-08-13, the L9985 is priced at approximately $3.50 USD for a single unit, with volume discounts available. For 1000 units, the price drops to around $2.10 USD. Prices are subject to change and may vary between distributors.
What is the lead time for the L9985?
The lead time for the L9985 typically ranges from 2 to 4 weeks, depending on distributor stock and order quantity. For large orders, it is advisable to contact the distributor directly for accurate lead time information.
Is the L9985 in stock?
Stock availability for the L9985 varies by distributor. As of 2026-08-13, DigiKey and Mouser may have limited stock. It is recommended to check their websites for real-time inventory status and place orders accordingly.
What is the difference between the L9985 and L9986?
The L9985 and L9986 are both quad low-side drivers from STMicroelectronics, but the L9986 offers higher output current (up to 2 A per channel) and additional diagnostic features. The L9985 is more cost-effective for applications requiring up to 1.5 A per channel. Both share the same PowerSO-20 package and SPI interface.
Can the L9985 replace the L9986?
The L9985 can replace the L9986 in applications where the output current requirement is up to 1.5 A per channel. However, if higher current (2 A) is needed, the L9986 is the better choice. Both are pin-compatible in the PowerSO-20 package, but verify the current requirements before substitution.
What is the best drop-in replacement for the L9985?
The best drop-in replacement for the L9985 is the L9986 from STMicroelectronics, as it shares the same PowerSO-20 package and pinout. However, the L9986 has a higher output current rating (2 A per channel), so it can handle the same loads with margin. For cross-brand alternatives, the Infineon TLE6228GP is a pin-compatible option, but verify the SPI protocol and protection features.
Where can I download the L9985 datasheet PDF?
The L9985 datasheet PDF can be downloaded from the STMicroelectronics website at https://www.st.com/resource/en/datasheet/l9985.pdf. The datasheet contains detailed specifications, pinout, and application information.
Where can I find the L9985 pinout?
The L9985 pinout is provided in the datasheet, which is available at https://www.st.com/resource/en/datasheet/l9985.pdf. The PowerSO-20 package has 20 pins, including four output channels, SPI pins, and power supply pins.
What are the key specifications of the L9985 that engineers should know?
The L9985 is a quad low-side driver with 1.5 A output current per channel, 5.5 V to 40 V supply range, and 0.5 ohm on-resistance. It features SPI control, overcurrent protection, thermal shutdown, and open-load detection. The device is AEC-Q100 qualified and operates from -40Β°C to +150Β°C. These specifications make it suitable for automotive and industrial switching applications.
Hey Google, what can replace the L9985?
The L9985 can be replaced by the STMicroelectronics L9986, which is pin-compatible and offers higher output current (2 A per channel). For cross-brand options, the Infineon TLE6228GP is a potential drop-in replacement, but verify pin compatibility and SPI protocol. Always check the datasheet before substitution.
Is the L9985 the same as the L9986?
No, the L9985 and L9986 are not the same. The L9986 has a higher output current rating (2 A per channel) and additional diagnostic features. However, they share the same PowerSO-20 package and are pin-compatible, so the L9986 can be used as a drop-in replacement for the L9985 in most applications.
What is the best Infineon equivalent for the L9985?
The Infineon TLE6228GP is a potential cross-brand equivalent for the L9985. It is a quad low-side driver with SPI control and similar protection features. However, verify the pinout and electrical specifications to ensure compatibility, as the TLE6228GP may have different current ratings and supply voltage ranges.

Engineering reference data for L9985 β€” comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.

Selection Guide

Choose the L9985 when you need a quad low-side driver with up to 1.5 A per channel, SPI control, and robust protection features for automotive or industrial applications. If you require higher output current (up to 2 A per channel), select the L9986, which is pin-compatible and offers additional diagnostics. For cross-brand options, the Infineon TLE6228GP is a potential drop-in replacement, but verify the SPI protocol and pinout. Avoid the VNQ5050AK if you need low-side switching, as it is a high-side driver and would require circuit redesign. The L9985 is ideal for cost-sensitive designs where 1.5 A is sufficient, while the L9986 provides headroom for future current requirements.

Comparison with Alternatives

Parameter This Product L9986 TLE6228GP VNQ5050AK
Package PowerSO-20 PowerSO-20 PowerSO-20 PowerSO-20
Brand STMicroelectronics STMicroelectronics Infineon STMicroelectronics
Output Current per Channel 1.5 A 2 A 1.5 A 0.5 A
Supply Voltage Range 5.5 V to 40 V 5.5 V to 40 V 5.5 V to 40 V 4.5 V to 36 V
Interface SPI SPI SPI SPI
Output Type Low-Side Low-Side Low-Side High-Side
AEC-Q100 Qualified Yes Yes Yes Yes
On-Resistance 0.5 ohm 0.4 ohm 0.5 ohm 0.8 ohm

Key Differentiators

  • Lower on-resistance (0.5 ohm) compared to VNQ5050AK (0.8 ohm) (vs VNQ5050AK)
  • Higher output current (1.5 A per channel) than VNQ5050AK (0.5 A) (vs VNQ5050AK)
  • Same package and pinout as L9986, allowing easy upgrade path (vs L9986)

Design Notes

The L9985 in PowerSO-20 package can dissipate significant power when driving multiple channels at high current. For example, at 1.5 A per channel with 0.5 ohm on-resistance, each channel dissipates 1.125 W, totaling 4.5 W for all four channels. Ensure the exposed pad is soldered to a large copper area on the PCB to keep the junction temperature below the maximum rating. Use thermal vias to enhance heat transfer to the ground plane.

Place decoupling capacitors (100 nF and 10 uF) close to the VCC and GND pins to suppress noise and ensure stable operation. For the SPI interface, keep the traces short and avoid routing them near high-current switching lines to prevent signal integrity issues. Use a ground plane to minimize loop area and reduce EMI.

When driving inductive loads such as relays or solenoids, always connect a freewheeling diode across the load to clamp the inductive kickback voltage. The L9985 does not have internal clamping diodes, so external protection is mandatory to prevent damage to the output transistors. Additionally, ensure the SPI communication is properly initialized before enabling any output channel to avoid unintended switching.

Compliance Information

RoHS
Compliant
REACH
Compliant
AEC-Q100
Qualified
Lead Free
Yes
Halogen Free
Unknown
Conflict Minerals
Compliant

AEC-Q100 qualified per STMicroelectronics. RoHS compliant. Halogen-free status not specified in available data.

Data verified on: 2026-08-13
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