DRV8873: Layout recommendations different than EVM layout

Hi Tim,

Thank you for your comments and questions.

EVM has a decoupling capacitor near pin 13, same as Layout in datasheet. Good

EVM doesn't have a decoupling cap near pin20 as recommended in datasheet. ?

This is an oversight. There is a second 0.1uF capacitor (C7) on the VM net, but it is not optimally placed. C7 should be closer to the pin 20 of the DRV8873 on the  EVMs.

EVM has a 0 ohm resistor connect to SRC (pins 17 & 18), connected GND. Datasheet has these pins connected to GND pour under device. Is this good enough?

The 0 Ohm resistor is not required for applications. Placing the resistor on the EVM allows additional experimentation capabilities. One such capability is changin the 0 Ohm resistor to compare IPROPx with the current flowing into the SRC.

The connection from the SRC pins to the GND pour under the device is typically sufficient, assuming the thermal pad is connected directly (no thermal relief).

Do we need more GND via(s) by pins?

You should not need additional GND vias by the pins. Additional GND vias will help transfer heat to other layers, which could be important if you operate at high current for long durations.

Can device be used without IPROPIx resistors?

Yes, the device can be used without the IPROPIx resistors. If doing so, it is recommended to connect the IPROPIx pins to GND.