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DRV8873: Using H-bridge driver for controlling Thermo Electric Coolers, TECs (aka Peltier heating / cooling elements)

Amitabha Sarkar
Prodigy 20 points
Part Number: DRV8873
Other Parts Discussed in Thread: DRV8842, , DRV8412, DRV8701EVM, DRV8701

Dear sir / madam,

   We have used the TI  H-bridge driver DRV8842 to successfully drive TECs that draw up to 4 A.

   I am currently looking into driving larger TECs that initially draw 10A, 8V and then settle down to 6A, 8V.

   I need t :

1) Reverse the polarity of the  TECs  depending on the context (hence the need for a full H-bridge).

2) Control the driver by PWM. I plan to start with a Beaglebone / Arduino board.

  I believe that DRV8873 H-bridge motor driver fits the bill. Please let me know if there is a different chip you would recommend.

Thanks and regards,

   ~Ami

  • 0
    TI__Guru** 114905 points

    Hi Ami,

    The DRV8873 is designed for high peak currents during motor startup, but not sustained currents like a TEC application.

    Depending on the ambient, the device RMS will vary but will probably not work at 6A.

    Typically, the DRV8412 and DRV8432 are recommended for TEC applications. These devices have higher switching frequencies (up to 500kHz) and can provide up to 14A Continuous current (DRV8432).

    Since you have used the DRV8842 in the past, I assume the switching frequency can be than 100kHz. The DRV8701 with external FETs could be an alternative as you can then select FETs with lower Rdson and reduce the power further. The DRV8701EVM is available for evaluation of the design.

  • 0 in reply to Rick Duncan
    Prodigy 20 points

    Dear Rick,

       Thanks a lot for your quick reply.

       The data sheet for DRV8432 has a very nice application diagram for a TEC driver.

    Have a good day,

      ~Ami