Other Parts Discussed in Thread: ULN2003A, TPL7407L,
The applications for low-side switching are far reaching, with loads ranging from relays to solenoids, LEDs to lamps, etc.
The ULN2003A for example is so widely used, it has its own Wikipedia page.
The TPL7407L and TPL7407LA devices are MOSFET options for low-side driving compared to our ULN2003A Darlington pair solution.
The electrical specifications of the TPL7407 devices are a little different than the ULN2003, however they both server as 7-channel low side drivers.
One distinction is the MOSFET option is less leaky, however it typically comes with a higher price tag.
TPL7407LA vs. TPL7407L
The key difference between the TPL7407LA and the TPL7407L is the A version (TPL7407LAPW) is more robust with inductive loads and voltage transients.
While the TPL7407L requires a diode to be used on OUT7 to protect the pin from negative current transients during inductive load switching, due to changes in the internal design, the TPL7407LA does not need a diode on OUT7 for inductive loads.
As a result of making those design changes and to protect against any high voltage, negative current situations, the maximum voltage was de-rated to 30V to not require specific current limiting.
With regard to auto vs non-auto specifications, when you compare the TPL7407LAPW and TPL7407LAPWQ1 devices, you will see an improvement in the auto-rated device's specifications. The TPL7407LQPWRQ1 (not A version) is no longer in development.
For more information on low-side switches please check out the product page on ti.com.