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DRV8837: DRV8837 protection diodes and VM

Part Number: DRV8837

1. Can I use protection diodes in the upper transistors for charging my Super-Cap. By connecting the battery to OUT1 and OUT2 (in 2-3 seconds)? (see my attached diagram)

2. If yes, Imax of the diodes in the forward direction?

3. Can I damage the circuit with this setup (lifetime)?

Notes: when I have charge the Super-cap, will I disconnect the battery and supply the device normal.

 Resistor after the Battery  = 0 ohm

  • Update the Resistor after the Battery = 0 ohm
  • Mikael,

    You can send current through the body diodes of the FETs like you indicated in the diagram. The max current through the diode should be similar to the max current of the FET, so Imax would be 1.8 A (recommended operating conditions table in the datasheet). There shouldn't be an impact to the device lifetime for doing this, so long as you are within the recommended operating conditions and absolute maximum conditions in the datasheet.

    If you can sufficiently power the DRV8837 in this condition, I would recommend turning on both high-side FETs for a lower-impedance path for the current. That may or may not be possible in your setup, but I wanted to mention it.