Out in Front: July 4, 1996

A driver in a tiny SOT-23 package incorporates the equivalent of three to six discrete devices, greatly simplifying the interface between a processor's digital output and an inductive load. Motorola's MDC3105LT1 can control loads rated as high as 300 mW, such as small relays, dc motors, ink-jet heads, and valves. The driver can switch loads operating from 3 to 5V and operates from a 5V rail.

The driver's protection diodes suppress transient voltage spikes that these inductive loads produce, and the internal zener-diode clamp routes any induced current to ground rather than back to the supply for further protection. The MDC3105LT1 is ESD-resistant, following the 2000V human-body model, and costs $0.17 (OEM).

—by Bill Schweber

Motorola Semiconductor Products Sector, Phoenix, AZ. (602) 244-5902, fax (602) 244-5406.