What is ULN2803A?
This is a high-voltage, high-current Darlington transistor array. It consists of eight NPN Darlington pairs that feature high-voltage outputs with common-cathode clamp diodes for inductive load transient suppression. The ULN2803A is commonly used in a range of electronic circuits to interface low-level logic to high-power loads, such as motors, solenoids, and lamps.
Part Number: ULN2803A
Function: 8-Channel Darlington Sink Driver
Package: AP type : DIP-18pin, AFW type-SOL-18pin
Manufacturer: Toshiba
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Description
The ULN2803A / ULN2803AP / ULN2803AFW Series are high−voltage, high−current darlington drivers comprised of eight NPN darlington pairs. All units feature integral clamp diodes for switching inductive loads. Applications include relay, hammer, lamp and display (LED) drivers. High-voltage, high-current darlington drivers comprised of eight NPN darlington pairs.
Advantages Vs Disadvantages
Advantages:
1. High-current capability
2. High-voltage outputs with inductive load transient suppression
3. Compact size with multiple channels in a single package
4. Low saturation voltage, which reduces power consumption
5. High input impedance and low input current make it easy to drive with low-level logic signals
Disadvantages:
1. The Darlington pairs have a high saturation voltage, which can lead to power dissipation and heating of the device
2. The ULN2803A does not provide isolation between the input and output, which can be a concern in some applications
3. The device is not suitable for high-speed switching applications
Features
1. Output current (single output) : 500 mA (Max.)
2. High sustaining voltage output : 50 V (Min.)
3. Output clamp diodes
4. Inputs compatible with various types of logic.
ULN2803A Datasheet PDF Download
Other data sheets are available within the file:
ULN2803, ULN2803AFW, ULN2803AP, ULN2804