Half-bridge driver for DC motor control
The L6203: Monolithic half-bridge driver in the Multiwatt-11 through-hole package, designed to drive inductive loads such as DC motors and general-purpose actuators. It integrates two half-bridge outputs, each rated for 4A continuous, with a bootstrap circuit for high-side gate drive.
What the ratings mean for your motor drive BOM
The 4A per-channel continuous current rating defines the motor size you can drive — a 4A DC motor at 48V gives roughly 192W mechanical output before derating. The 300mOhm typical on-resistance sets conduction loss at 4A to about 4.8W per channel, which the Multiwatt-11 package with its metal tab must sink; a proper heatsink is mandatory for continuous operation. The 12V to 48V supply range matches common industrial and automotive bus voltages (24V, 36V, 48V), and the bootstrap circuit eliminates the need for a separate floating supply for the high-side gate drive. The -40°C to 150°C junction temperature range covers under-hood automotive and factory-floor environments.
Lifecycle and compliance
It is ROHS3 compliant, so no restricted substances above the threshold limits — no exemptions to manage for EU or global markets. The through-hole Multiwatt-11 package is a legacy form factor, but ST continues to support it for industrial and automotive motor drive designs.
Sourcing and availability
Active part available through authorized distribution and independent channels. No last-time-buy risk.