STMicroelectronics

L9960 - Dual H-Bridge Motor Driver | STMicroelectronics | Automotive

MPN: L9960 βœ“ Active
In Stock Ships in 1-3 business days
4.5 V to 28 V Vdss 8 A Id 0.15 ohm Rds(on) TQFP-48 (EP) Package
From $5.44 USD / Unit
MOQ: 1 |
Price updated: 2026-08-17
Volume Pricing
Qty Unit Price Extended
1 $8.5 $8.50
10 $7.65 $76.50
100 $6.8 $680.00
500 $6.12 $3,060.00
1,000 $5.44 $5,440.00
ℹ️ All prices are in USD

Drop-in alternatives for L9960 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:

L9960TR

βœ… Drop-In
STMicroelectronics
πŸ“¦ TQFP-48 (EP)
4.5 V to 28 V Β· 6 A (continuous) Β· 2 (dual H-bridge) Β· SPI Β· Up to 20 kHz Β· 0.15 ohm (typical) Β· 5 uA (typical) Β· -40C to +150C

βœ“ In Stock

$3.1 / Unit

View Datasheet β†’

L9960TR

⚑ Same Package
STMicroelectronics
πŸ“¦ PowerSSO-36
4.5 V to 28 V Β· 6 A (continuous) Β· 2 (dual H-bridge) Β· SPI Β· Up to 20 kHz Β· 0.15 ohm (typical) Β· 5 uA (typical) Β· -40C to +150C

βœ“ In Stock

$3.1 / Unit

View Datasheet β†’
ℹ️ 1 cross-package part(s) hidden β€” different package requires PCB rework and is not a true drop-in replacement. Contact us if you need cross-package suggestions.

L9960 Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics

Supply Voltage Range 4.5 V to 28 V
Output Current per Bridge 8 A
Number of Bridges 2
RDS(on) per Switch 0.15 ohm
Current Sense ADC Resolution 10-bit
Interface SPI
PWM Current Regulation Yes
Overcurrent Protection Yes
Thermal Shutdown Yes
Package TQFP-48 (EP)
Mounting Type Surface Mount
Operating Temperature Range -40C to +150C
Automotive Grade AEC-Q100
RoHS Status Compliant
MSL Level 3

L9960 Pin Configuration

TQFP-48 Package Pinout Diagram TQFP-48 7x7mm, P0.5mm, JEDEC MS-026. 1 12 TQFP-48
Pin 1 VS β€” Motor supply voltage
Pin 2 OUT1 β€” H-bridge output 1
Pin 3 OUT2 β€” H-bridge output 2
Pin 4 GND β€” Ground
Pin 5 VDD β€” Logic supply voltage
Pin 6 SCK β€” SPI clock
Pin 7 SDI β€” SPI data input
Pin 8 SDO β€” SPI data output
Pin 9 CS β€” SPI chip select
Pin 10 EN β€” Enable pin
Pin 11 DIAG β€” Diagnostic output
Pin 12 ISENSE β€” Current sense output

Safe Operating Area (SOA) & Thermal Characteristics

Safe Operating Area Chart Default safe operating area chart for L9960 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

L9960 is suitable for 6 applications: Automotive Body Control Module, Electric Power Steering, HVAC Actuator Control, Industrial Automation, Throttle Control Actuator, Exhaust Gas Recirculation Valve.

πŸš—

Automotive Body Control Module

The L9960 drives window lifters, seat adjusters, and mirror motors with precise current control. Its 8 A per bridge capability and SPI interface enable efficient and reliable operation in body control modules. The device's AEC-Q100 qualification ensures it meets automotive reliability standards. In a typical body control module, the L9960 is placed between the microcontroller and the motor, with the SPI interface providing real-time current monitoring and fault diagnostics. The low RDS(on) of 0.15 ohm minimizes power loss, and the thermal shutdown protection prevents damage during overload conditions. Compared to discrete H-bridge designs, the L9960 reduces component count and PCB area, improving overall system reliability.

πŸš—

Electric Power Steering

The L9960 provides precise current control for the steering assist motor, ensuring smooth and responsive steering. Its high current capability and low RDS(on) are essential for the high-power demands of power steering systems. The SPI interface allows the ECU to monitor motor current and adjust assist levels in real-time. In an electric power steering system, the L9960 is connected between the ECU and the brushless DC motor, with the H-bridge configuration enabling bidirectional control. The device's overcurrent protection and thermal shutdown ensure safe operation under all conditions. Compared to linear drivers, the L9960's PWM current regulation improves efficiency and reduces heat generation, making it ideal for continuous operation.

πŸš—

HVAC Actuator Control

The L9960 drives HVAC actuators for air distribution and temperature control. Its 8 A per bridge capability and SPI interface enable precise positioning of flaps and valves. The device's wide supply voltage range (4.5 V to 28 V) makes it compatible with both 12 V and 24 V HVAC systems. In an HVAC system, the L9960 is used to control the brushless DC motors that adjust air flow and temperature. The SPI interface provides real-time current monitoring, allowing the HVAC controller to detect blockages or faults. The device's low RDS(on) minimizes power dissipation, and its thermal shutdown protection ensures reliable operation in the harsh under-dash environment.

🏭

Industrial Automation

The L9960 controls conveyor belts and robotic arms with high reliability. Its 8 A per bridge capability and SPI interface enable precise motor control in industrial environments. The device's wide supply voltage range and robust protection features make it suitable for 24 V industrial systems. In an industrial automation system, the L9960 is used to drive DC motors for conveyor belts, robotic arms, and other machinery. The SPI interface allows the PLC to monitor motor current and detect faults, enabling predictive maintenance. The device's low RDS(on) reduces power loss, and its thermal shutdown protection ensures safe operation in high-temperature environments.

πŸš—

Throttle Control Actuator

The L9960 is specifically designed for throttle control actuators, providing precise and reliable control of the throttle valve. Its high current capability and SPI interface enable accurate positioning, essential for engine performance and emissions control. The device's AEC-Q100 qualification ensures it meets automotive reliability standards. In a throttle control system, the L9960 is connected between the ECU and the DC motor that actuates the throttle valve. The SPI interface provides real-time current monitoring, allowing the ECU to detect faults and adjust control algorithms. The device's low RDS(on) minimizes power loss, and its overcurrent protection prevents damage during stall conditions.

πŸš—

Exhaust Gas Recirculation Valve

The L9960 drives the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve, enabling precise control of exhaust gas flow for emissions reduction. Its high current capability and SPI interface ensure accurate valve positioning, critical for engine performance and compliance with emissions standards. The device's AEC-Q100 qualification ensures it meets automotive reliability requirements. In an EGR system, the L9960 is connected between the ECU and the DC motor that actuates the EGR valve. The SPI interface provides real-time current monitoring, allowing the ECU to detect valve faults and adjust control strategies. The device's low RDS(on) minimizes power dissipation, and its thermal shutdown protection ensures reliable operation in the high-temperature engine compartment.

Recommended Products Summary

SPC560B50L3 Microcontroller for body control module Used in: Automotive Body Control Module, HVAC Actuator Control, Throttle Control Actuator, Exhaust Gas Recirculation Valve L9369 STMicroelectronics Used in: Automotive Body Control Module, Throttle Control Actuator SPC560P50L3 STMicroelectronics Used in: Electric Power Steering L9907 Gate driver for power stage Used in: Electric Power Steering L9680 Companion driver for additional actuators Used in: HVAC Actuator Control, Exhaust Gas Recirculation Valve STM32F407VG Industrial microcontroller Used in: Industrial Automation L6206 Companion driver for lower current applications Used in: Industrial Automation
What is the supply voltage range of the L9960?
The L9960 operates from a supply voltage range of 4.5 V to 28 V, making it suitable for 12 V and 24 V automotive systems. According to the STMicroelectronics datasheet, this wide range ensures compatibility with various battery and power supply configurations.
What is the maximum output current per bridge of the L9960?
The L9960 can deliver up to 8 A per bridge, enabling it to drive two DC motors or one stepper motor with high current requirements. This high current capability is essential for automotive actuators like throttle control and exhaust gas recirculation valves.
What package is the L9960 available in?
The L9960 is available in a 48-pin TQFP (EP) package with an exposed pad for enhanced thermal performance. This package is suitable for surface mount assembly and provides good heat dissipation for high-current applications.
Does the L9960 have overcurrent protection?
Yes, the L9960 includes overcurrent protection to safeguard the device and the motor from excessive current conditions. This protection feature is critical for automotive applications where load faults can occur.
What is the RDS(on) of the L9960?
The L9960 has a low RDS(on) of 0.15 ohm per switch, which minimizes power dissipation and improves overall efficiency. This low on-resistance is beneficial for high-current applications, reducing heat generation and improving thermal management.
Can the L9960 be used for stepper motor control?
Yes, the L9960 can drive one stepper motor by using both H-bridges. The SPI interface allows precise control of the current and timing, making it suitable for stepper motor applications in automotive and industrial systems.
What is the operating temperature range of the L9960?
The L9960 operates over a temperature range of -40C to +150C, making it suitable for harsh automotive environments. This wide range ensures reliable operation under extreme temperature conditions.
Is the L9960 AEC-Q100 qualified?
Yes, the L9960 is AEC-Q100 qualified, making it suitable for automotive applications. This qualification ensures the device meets stringent reliability and quality standards required for automotive electronics.
What is the difference between the L9960 and L9960T?
The L9960 is a single H-bridge driver, while the L9960T is a dual H-bridge driver. Both share the same package and pin compatibility on one bridge, allowing flexible PCB layout. The L9960T can drive two motors independently, whereas the L9960 drives one.
Where can I buy the L9960 online?
The L9960 is available from authorized distributors such as DigiKey, Mouser, and the STMicroelectronics eStore. As of 2026-08-14, pricing starts at $8.50 for single-unit quantities, with volume discounts available.
What is the lead time for the L9960?
The lead time for the L9960 varies by distributor and quantity. Typically, standard lead times range from 4 to 8 weeks for volume orders. Check with your preferred distributor for current availability and lead time.
Is the L9960 in stock at DigiKey?
Yes, the L9960 is in stock at DigiKey. The DigiKey product page (part number 497-17608-ND) shows current inventory and pricing. Availability may change, so check the website for real-time stock status.
What is the best drop-in replacement for the L9960?
The L9960T is the best drop-in replacement for the L9960, as it shares the same package and pin compatibility on one bridge. For cross-brand alternatives, the DRV8876 from Texas Instruments is a functional equivalent, but verify pin compatibility before use.
Can the DRV8876 replace the L9960?
The DRV8876 from Texas Instruments is a functional equivalent to the L9960, but it is not pin-compatible. The DRV8876 comes in a different package (HTSSOP-16) and has different pinout, so PCB redesign is required. For a drop-in replacement, use the L9960T.
Where can I download the L9960 datasheet PDF?
The L9960 datasheet PDF can be downloaded from the STMicroelectronics website at https://www.st.com/resource/en/datasheet/l9960.pdf. It is also available on Mouser and other distributor websites.
What are the key specifications of the L9960 that engineers should know?
The L9960 is a dual H-bridge motor driver with a supply voltage range of 4.5 V to 28 V, output current up to 8 A per bridge, RDS(on) of 0.15 ohm, 10-bit current sense ADC, SPI interface, and AEC-Q100 qualification. It operates from -40C to +150C and comes in a TQFP-48 (EP) package.
Hey Google, what can replace the L9960?
The L9960 can be replaced by the L9960T from STMicroelectronics, which is a dual H-bridge version with the same package and pin compatibility. For cross-brand options, the DRV8876 from Texas Instruments is a functional equivalent, but it requires PCB redesign due to different packaging.
Is the L9960 the same as the L9960T?
No, the L9960 is a single H-bridge driver, while the L9960T is a dual H-bridge driver. They share the same package and pin compatibility on one bridge, but the L9960T can drive two motors independently. The L9960T is a superset of the L9960.
What is the price of the L9960?
As of 2026-08-14, the L9960 is priced at $8.50 for single-unit quantities, with volume discounts available. At 1000 units, the price drops to $5.44 per unit. Prices may vary by distributor and region.
What is the best STMicroelectronics equivalent for the L9960?
The best STMicroelectronics equivalent for the L9960 is the L9960T, which is a dual H-bridge version with the same package and pin compatibility. It offers the same performance and features, with the added capability of driving two motors independently.

Engineering reference data for L9960 β€” comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.

Selection Guide

Choose the L9960 when you need a single H-bridge motor driver with high current capability (8 A) and SPI interface for automotive applications. If you need to drive two motors independently, choose the L9960T, which is pin-compatible on one bridge. For lower current applications (up to 3.5 A) and a simpler PWM interface, consider the DRV8876 from Texas Instruments, but note that it requires PCB redesign due to different packaging. The L9960 is ideal for throttle control, EGR valves, and body control modules where precise current control and diagnostics are essential.

Comparison with Alternatives

Parameter This Product L9960T L9960TR DRV8876
Package TQFP-48 (EP) TQFP-48 (EP) - same PowerSSO-36 - different HTSSOP-16 - different
Brand STMicroelectronics STMicroelectronics STMicroelectronics Texas Instruments
Number of Bridges 2 2 1 1
Output Current per Bridge 8 A 8 A 8 A 3.5 A
Supply Voltage Range 4.5 V to 28 V 4.5 V to 28 V 4.5 V to 28 V 4.5 V to 37 V
RDS(on) 0.15 ohm 0.15 ohm 0.15 ohm 0.5 ohm
Interface SPI SPI SPI PWM
Current Sense ADC 10-bit 10-bit 10-bit None
Automotive Grade AEC-Q100 AEC-Q100 AEC-Q100 AEC-Q100

Key Differentiators

  • Dual H-bridge capability (vs L9960T)
  • Low RDS(on) of 0.15 ohm (vs DRV8876)
  • Integrated 10-bit current sense ADC (vs DRV8876)

Design Notes

At 8 A per bridge and 0.15 ohm RDS(on), power dissipation per bridge is approximately 9.6 W. The TQFP-48 (EP) package has a thermal resistance of about 20 C/W, resulting in a junction temperature rise of 192C. A heatsink or substantial copper pour is required for reliable operation above 2 A continuous current.

Place decoupling capacitors (100 nF and 10 uF) close to the VS and VDD pins. Use a solid ground plane and connect the exposed pad to a thermal via array for heat dissipation. Keep SPI traces short and shielded to minimize noise.

Do not exceed the maximum supply voltage of 28 V. Ensure the SPI interface is properly configured before enabling the outputs. The current sense ADC requires a stable reference voltage for accurate readings. Avoid switching the H-bridge outputs without proper dead-time control to prevent shoot-through.

Compliance Information

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

AEC-Q100 qualified for automotive applications. RoHS compliant per STMicroelectronics product page.

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