company blog about TI DRV110APWR Single Channel Relay Low-Side Driver With Integrated Current Regulation

TI DRV110APWR Single Channel Relay Low-Side Driver With Integrated Current Regulation

Shenzhen Mingjiada Electronics Co., Ltd., a globally renowned distributor of electronic components, now supplies TI's DRV110APWR single-channel low-side controller.

This chip integrates current regulation functionality. Through optimised PWM control technology, it significantly reduces system power consumption and thermal dissipation, providing an efficient and reliable solution for various electromagnetic drive applications.

【DRV110APWR Specifications】

The DRV110APWR device is a PWM current controller designed for solenoid valves. It regulates current via a well-controlled waveform to minimise power dissipation. Rapid current ramp-up ensures proper valve or relay activation. Following initial rise, the solenoid current maintains peak levels for stable operation; thereafter, it transitions to a lower hold level to prevent overheating and reduce power loss.

The peak current duration is set using an external capacitor. The peak and hold levels of the current ramp, along with the PWM frequency, can be individually configured using external resistors. Should the default values for these parameters suit the application, external setting resistors may not even be required.

The DRV110APWR device incorporates an internal Zener diode that limits the input voltage to VZENER, making it suitable for applications requiring higher supply voltages. With its internal Zener diode, the DRV110APWR permits power supply from 120V and 230V AC sources via a rectifier and current-limiting resistor. This method can also be used to regulate high DC voltages, such as 48V.

【DRV110APWR Product Features】

The DRV110APWR is a single-channel low-side controller specifically designed for relay, solenoid valve, and valve control applications.

It incorporates advanced current regulation capabilities using PWM control technology to effectively reduce system power dissipation.

Core Performance Parameters

The DRV110APWR operates within a 9V to 15V voltage range and withstands a broad temperature range from -40°C to +125°C.

Its integrated internal Zener diode limits input voltage to a safe range, permitting direct power supply from 120V and 230V AC sources via a rectifier and current-limiting resistor.

The DRV110APWR is available in a compact 14-pin TSSOP package measuring just 5mm × 4.4mm, making it suitable for space-constrained applications.

Intelligent Control Features

The DRV110APWR enables precise control of solenoid valve current: rapid current ramp-up ensures reliable valve or relay activation, followed by a reduction to a lower hold level to prevent overheating and minimise power dissipation.

External components allow independent configuration of peak current duration, peak and hold levels, and PWM frequency; no external resistors are required if default parameters suffice.

The DRV110APWR further integrates thermal shutdown and under-voltage lockout (UVLO) protection, enhancing system reliability and safety.

【DRV110APWR Operating Principle and Internal Structure】

The DRV110APWR employs a low-side drive architecture, regulating load current by controlling the conduction of an external MOSFET.

The device incorporates an internal PWM current controller that monitors load current in real-time via an external sense resistor, enabling precise current regulation.

Its operational sequence comprises several critical phases: during the initial phase, solenoid valve current rapidly rises to peak levels to ensure reliable activation;

peak current duration is controlled by an external capacitor, guaranteeing full actuator engagement; subsequently, the hold phase commences, where current automatically reduces to a preset maintenance level, significantly lowering power consumption.

This intelligent control mechanism achieves an optimal balance between energy efficiency and performance by delivering sufficient energy during activation while minimising power expenditure during the hold period.

The internal Zener diode structure enables the device to accommodate higher supply voltages, such as 24V, 48V, or even higher DC voltages, or direct AC power via a rectifier and RS resistor.

【DRV110APWR Application Domains】

Within industrial automation, the DRV110APWR drives pneumatic valves, hydraulic valves, and various relays for precise motion control.

Its reliable drive performance and comprehensive protection features ensure stable operation of industrial systems.

Large household appliances represent another significant application domain, where the DRV110APWR drives water inlet valves and drain pumps in products such as washing machines and dishwashers.

Its energy-saving characteristics align with modern appliances' stringent efficiency requirements.

Within energy infrastructure, the DRV110APWR can be employed for circuit breaker and contactor drives in smart grids, solar systems, and power distribution equipment.

Its wide operating temperature range ensures reliability in demanding environments.

Within the transport sector, body control modules – such as drive relays controlling lighting, motors and other loads – represent typical application scenarios for the DRV110APWR.

Its compact packaging suits space-constrained automotive electronic systems.

These extensive application domains underscore the DRV110APWR's significance and versatility as a fundamental control component.