Driving high current load using a microcontroller port.
Driving high current load using a microcontroller port.
(OP)
Hi I am doing an research on driving high current load using a microcontroller port. I need some information on how I can make 20 mA that comes out of a microcontroller larger to make a load work and also how I can choose different interfaces for different types of load (mainly resistive, inductive and capacitive). Thank you.





RE: Driving high current load using a microcontroller port.
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RE: Driving high current load using a microcontroller port.
RE: Driving high current load using a microcontroller port.
If I have to drive high loads from a microcontroller then I usually go for a darlingpair device.
Usually I use the ULN2003 which is 7 drivers on a chip capable of driving 500ma with only around 1ma draw at the input. The have clamping diodes built in and are workable up to 50V. The only problem is lack of electrical isolation, however there is no reason why you cann't couple these to the microcontroller with an opto isolator.
See the following ling for info
http://alds.stts.edu/datasheet/Interface/ULN2001.pdf
Talking of which you could always just use an opto isolator with a darlington pair or triac as the device being switched.
See the following link for info
http://www.isocomoptocouplers.com/isocom/icpl2730.htm
If you fancy a single device then try the BDX44 d-pair device, a bit more current & voltage.
See link for info
http://www-us7.semiconductors.philips.com/pip/BDX42_43_44_CNV_2
Regards
RE: Driving high current load using a microcontroller port.