ULN2803AEight-channel Darlington driver
Switch eight loads from logic—with the complete power budget in view.
ULN2803A combines eight NPN Darlington drivers and eight clamp diodes in an 18-pin package. Each logic input controls an open-collector output that sinks current through an external load. This reference follows Toshiba ULN2803APG in DIP-18 and ULN2803AFWG in wide SOP-18. Each input has a 2.7 kΩ resistor for TTL or 5 V CMOS control; pin 9 is the shared ground return and pin 10 is the clamp-diode common. Connect COM to the positive coil supply for inductive loads. The 500 mA single-output stress rating is not an eight-channel continuous-current allowance: duty cycle, voltage drop, ambient temperature and package dissipation all matter.
Pin diagram
Select a pin to explore its connection
Click a lead or use the arrow keys. Top view
I1
Function
Input of Darlington channel 1, through an internal 2.7 kΩ resistor.
How to connect
Connect to a 5 V TTL/CMOS output; hold unused inputs LOW.
Electrical note
HIGH enables the matching output sink. Check the required input drive at the intended collector current.
I2
Function
Input of Darlington channel 2, through an internal 2.7 kΩ resistor.
How to connect
Connect to a 5 V TTL/CMOS output; hold unused inputs LOW.
Electrical note
HIGH enables the matching output sink. Check the required input drive at the intended collector current.
I3
Function
Input of Darlington channel 3, through an internal 2.7 kΩ resistor.
How to connect
Connect to a 5 V TTL/CMOS output; hold unused inputs LOW.
Electrical note
HIGH enables the matching output sink. Check the required input drive at the intended collector current.
I4
Function
Input of Darlington channel 4, through an internal 2.7 kΩ resistor.
How to connect
Connect to a 5 V TTL/CMOS output; hold unused inputs LOW.
Electrical note
HIGH enables the matching output sink. Check the required input drive at the intended collector current.
I5
Function
Input of Darlington channel 5, through an internal 2.7 kΩ resistor.
How to connect
Connect to a 5 V TTL/CMOS output; hold unused inputs LOW.
Electrical note
HIGH enables the matching output sink. Check the required input drive at the intended collector current.
I6
Function
Input of Darlington channel 6, through an internal 2.7 kΩ resistor.
How to connect
Connect to a 5 V TTL/CMOS output; hold unused inputs LOW.
Electrical note
HIGH enables the matching output sink. Check the required input drive at the intended collector current.
I7
Function
Input of Darlington channel 7, through an internal 2.7 kΩ resistor.
How to connect
Connect to a 5 V TTL/CMOS output; hold unused inputs LOW.
Electrical note
HIGH enables the matching output sink. Check the required input drive at the intended collector current.
I8
Function
Input of Darlington channel 8, through an internal 2.7 kΩ resistor.
How to connect
Connect to a 5 V TTL/CMOS output; hold unused inputs LOW.
Electrical note
HIGH enables the matching output sink. Check the required input drive at the intended collector current.
GND
Function
Shared emitter return for all eight Darlington pairs.
How to connect
Join the controller and load-supply grounds.
Electrical note
This lead carries the combined output current. Route its return with appropriate copper and low impedance.
COM
Function
Common cathodes of the eight internal inductive-load diodes.
How to connect
Connect to the positive coil supply for inductive loads.
Electrical note
COM is not a logic supply or ground. The driver inputs do not require a separate VCC pin.
O8
Function
Collector of Darlington channel 8.
How to connect
Connect to the low side of the load; its other side goes to the positive load rail.
Electrical note
Sinks current only. A HIGH input turns this output on; allow for its saturation voltage and package heating.
O7
Function
Collector of Darlington channel 7.
How to connect
Connect to the low side of the load; its other side goes to the positive load rail.
Electrical note
Sinks current only. A HIGH input turns this output on; allow for its saturation voltage and package heating.
O6
Function
Collector of Darlington channel 6.
How to connect
Connect to the low side of the load; its other side goes to the positive load rail.
Electrical note
Sinks current only. A HIGH input turns this output on; allow for its saturation voltage and package heating.
O5
Function
Collector of Darlington channel 5.
How to connect
Connect to the low side of the load; its other side goes to the positive load rail.
Electrical note
Sinks current only. A HIGH input turns this output on; allow for its saturation voltage and package heating.
O4
Function
Collector of Darlington channel 4.
How to connect
Connect to the low side of the load; its other side goes to the positive load rail.
Electrical note
Sinks current only. A HIGH input turns this output on; allow for its saturation voltage and package heating.
O3
Function
Collector of Darlington channel 3.
How to connect
Connect to the low side of the load; its other side goes to the positive load rail.
Electrical note
Sinks current only. A HIGH input turns this output on; allow for its saturation voltage and package heating.
O2
Function
Collector of Darlington channel 2.
How to connect
Connect to the low side of the load; its other side goes to the positive load rail.
Electrical note
Sinks current only. A HIGH input turns this output on; allow for its saturation voltage and package heating.
O1
Function
Collector of Darlington channel 1.
How to connect
Connect to the low side of the load; its other side goes to the positive load rail.
Electrical note
Sinks current only. A HIGH input turns this output on; allow for its saturation voltage and package heating.
Key specifications
The load supply provides the output energy. The IC switches each return path; COM catches inductive flyback through the internal diodes.
Package details
ULN2803APG · PDIP-18
| Property | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Toshiba |
| Part number | ULN2803APG |
| Package | PDIP-18 |
| Connections | 18 pins |
| Mounting | Through-hole |
| Lead pitch | 2.54 mm |
| Package code | dip |
| Thermal reference | Board and package dependent; see manufacturer data |
Input and output pairs
18 physical pins · top view
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| Parameter | Value | Conditions / notes |
|---|---|---|
| Channel 1 | I1 pin 1 → O1 pin 18 | HIGH input enables the current sink |
| Channel 2 | I2 pin 2 → O2 pin 17 | HIGH input enables the current sink |
| Channel 3 | I3 pin 3 → O3 pin 16 | HIGH input enables the current sink |
| Channel 4 | I4 pin 4 → O4 pin 15 | HIGH input enables the current sink |
| Channel 5 | I5 pin 5 → O5 pin 14 | HIGH input enables the current sink |
| Channel 6 | I6 pin 6 → O6 pin 13 | HIGH input enables the current sink |
| Channel 7 | I7 pin 7 → O7 pin 12 | HIGH input enables the current sink |
| Channel 8 | I8 pin 8 → O8 pin 11 | HIGH input enables the current sink |
| Ground return | Pin 9 | Controller and load ground |
| Diode common | Pin 10 | Positive inductive-load supply |
No specifications match. Try a parameter name or a unit.
Output numbering runs in the opposite direction across the package.
Electrical characteristics
Toshiba ULN2803A · 25°C
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| Parameter | Value | Conditions / notes |
|---|---|---|
| Input resistor | 2.7 kΩ | Internal series resistor |
| Saturation voltage at 100 mA | 0.9 V typical; 1.1 V maximum | Input current 250 µA |
| Saturation voltage at 200 mA | 1.1 V typical; 1.3 V maximum | Input current 350 µA |
| Saturation voltage at 350 mA | 1.3 V typical; 1.6 V maximum | Input current 500 µA |
| Input current at 3.85 V | 0.93 mA typical; 1.35 mA maximum | ULN2803APG / AFWG |
| Input ON voltage | 2.4 / 2.7 / 3.0 V maximum | Output 200 / 250 / 300 mA; VCE = 2 V |
| Output leakage | 50 µA maximum at 25°C; 100 µA at 85°C | VCE = 50 V |
| Clamp diode drop | 2.0 V maximum | Forward current 350 mA |
No specifications match. Try a parameter name or a unit.
These values refer to the selected Toshiba parts; similar names from other manufacturers can have different limits.
Multi-channel operation
Eight active circuits · manufacturer conditions
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| Parameter | Value | Conditions / notes |
|---|---|---|
| DIP-18 at 10% duty | 347 mA per channel maximum | 25 ms pulse width; eight circuits |
| DIP-18 at 50% duty | 123 mA per channel maximum | 25 ms pulse width; eight circuits |
| SOP-18 at 10% duty | 268 mA per channel maximum | 25 ms pulse width; eight circuits |
| SOP-18 at 50% duty | 90 mA per channel maximum | 25 ms pulse width; eight circuits |
| DIP power at 85°C | 0.76 W maximum | Recommended operating conditions |
| SOP power at 85°C | 0.48 W maximum | 75 × 114 × 1.6 mm glass-epoxy board; 20% copper |
No specifications match. Try a parameter name or a unit.
Pulse figures are not DC current guarantees. Use the manufacturer duty-cycle and temperature curves for the actual board.
Relay-bank calculations
12 V supply · 240 Ω per coil
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| Parameter | Value | Conditions / notes |
|---|---|---|
| Assumed driver drop | 0.90 V | Fixed teaching estimate |
| Coil voltage | 11.10 V | 12 − 0.90 |
| Current per energized coil | 46.25 mA | 11.10 / 240 |
| Output loss per channel | 41.625 mW | 0.90 × 0.04625 |
| Eight coils energized | 370 mA | Eight identical loads |
| Eight output stages | 333 mW | Does not include input power or switching loss |
| Ground and COM | Pin 9 = GND; pin 10 = +12 V | Never swap these two connections |
No specifications match. Try a parameter name or a unit.
Check relay pickup voltage and supply tolerances. This explorer illustrates steady-state arithmetic, not relay mechanics or temperature.
Absolute maximum ratings
25°C unless otherwise noted
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| Parameter | Value | Conditions / notes |
|---|---|---|
| Output sustaining voltage | −0.5 to 50 V | Stress range |
| Output current | 500 mA per channel | Subject to total dissipation |
| Input voltage | −0.5 to 30 V | Normal example uses 5 V logic |
| Clamp reverse voltage / forward current | 50 V / 500 mA | Absolute maximum ratings |
| DIP total power | 1.47 W | 25°C; derate at higher ambient temperature |
| SOP total power | 0.92 W; 1.31 W on specified board | Board: 75 × 114 × 1.6 mm; 20% copper |
| Operating / storage temperature | −40–85°C / −55–150°C | Ambient operation / unpowered storage |
No specifications match. Try a parameter name or a unit.
Do not combine independent absolute maxima as an operating point. No automatic overcurrent protection is provided.
Packages and timing
ULN2803APG · PDIP-18
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| Parameter | Value | Conditions / notes |
|---|---|---|
| DIP body | 22.86 × 6.40 mm nominal | 7.62 mm lead rows; 2.54 mm pitch |
| SOP body | 11.35–11.68 × 7.37–7.62 mm | 10.01–10.64 mm outer lead span; 1.27 mm pitch |
| Selected PCB geometry | DIL18 / SO18W | Wide SOP geometry; not the narrow SOP18 pattern |
| Typical turn-on / turn-off | 0.1 / 0.2 µs | RL = 125 Ω; VOUT = 50 V; manufacturer test circuit |
| Pulse test drive | 3 V HIGH; 50 µs; 10% duty | Specified switching test, not the relay example |
| Unused pins | Inputs held LOW; outputs open | COM connected for any inductive loads |
No specifications match. Try a parameter name or a unit.
Footprints are reviewed generic package patterns. Confirm hole, land and assembly tolerances against the purchased part.
Connections by function
Select a pin for its function, connection guidance and electrical notes.
Logic inputs8 pins
Ground1 pin
Clamp protection1 pin
Collector outputs8 pins
Logic inputs8 pins
Ground1 pin
Clamp protection1 pin
Collector outputs8 pins
ULN2803A at a glance
Follow the labeled connections and functional stages
How it works
3 stages · Explore one step at a time
Apply a logic level
Input current passes through the internal resistor and drives a pair of transistors. A HIGH input enables its corresponding collector sink.
Complete the load path
Current flows from the external positive supply, through the load, through the output transistor and back to pin 9.
Account for turn-off and heat
Coil current returns through the internal diode to COM after switch-off. Add dissipation from every active channel and consider the selected package and board.
Switch 8 loads independently
Click an input. Follow its collector current and the combined power budget.
Enable JavaScript to try the drivers.
Illustrative DC loads: 240 Ω coils, a 12 V rail and a fixed 0.90 V driver drop. COM is tied to the coil rail. The calculation excludes input-stage power, flyback transients, relay mechanics and temperature rise; it is not a safe-current guarantee.
ULN2803A in a circuit
A physical 18-pin array switches the low side of a 12 V coil.
Connect it, step by step
Follow the component values and pin connections
Wire the load
Connect the coil from +12 V to O1 pin 18 and join pin 9 to the common return.
Return flyback current
Connect COM pin 10 to +12 V at the load supply.
Control channel one
Drive I1 pin 1 HIGH to energize the coil and LOW to release it. Hold unused inputs LOW.
Inside ULN2803A
One Darlington channel, repeated eight times inside the package.
Explore the circuit
Select a stage to see its role and connections
Input drive
A 2.7 kΩ resistor limits base drive from the logic input.
Two-transistor gain
The first emitter drives the second base; both collectors form one output sink.
Clamp return
The diode anode is at the collector and its cathode is at COM pin 10.
Pin reference
Signal names, electrical functions and connection guidance
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| Pin | Signal | Type | Function & connection |
|---|---|---|---|
| I1 | Logic input | Input of Darlington channel 1, through an internal 2.7 kΩ resistor.Connection guidanceConnect to a 5 V TTL/CMOS output; hold unused inputs LOW. HIGH enables the matching output sink. Check the required input drive at the intended collector current. | |
| I2 | Logic input | Input of Darlington channel 2, through an internal 2.7 kΩ resistor.Connection guidanceConnect to a 5 V TTL/CMOS output; hold unused inputs LOW. HIGH enables the matching output sink. Check the required input drive at the intended collector current. | |
| I3 | Logic input | Input of Darlington channel 3, through an internal 2.7 kΩ resistor.Connection guidanceConnect to a 5 V TTL/CMOS output; hold unused inputs LOW. HIGH enables the matching output sink. Check the required input drive at the intended collector current. | |
| I4 | Logic input | Input of Darlington channel 4, through an internal 2.7 kΩ resistor.Connection guidanceConnect to a 5 V TTL/CMOS output; hold unused inputs LOW. HIGH enables the matching output sink. Check the required input drive at the intended collector current. | |
| I5 | Logic input | Input of Darlington channel 5, through an internal 2.7 kΩ resistor.Connection guidanceConnect to a 5 V TTL/CMOS output; hold unused inputs LOW. HIGH enables the matching output sink. Check the required input drive at the intended collector current. | |
| I6 | Logic input | Input of Darlington channel 6, through an internal 2.7 kΩ resistor.Connection guidanceConnect to a 5 V TTL/CMOS output; hold unused inputs LOW. HIGH enables the matching output sink. Check the required input drive at the intended collector current. | |
| I7 | Logic input | Input of Darlington channel 7, through an internal 2.7 kΩ resistor.Connection guidanceConnect to a 5 V TTL/CMOS output; hold unused inputs LOW. HIGH enables the matching output sink. Check the required input drive at the intended collector current. | |
| I8 | Logic input | Input of Darlington channel 8, through an internal 2.7 kΩ resistor.Connection guidanceConnect to a 5 V TTL/CMOS output; hold unused inputs LOW. HIGH enables the matching output sink. Check the required input drive at the intended collector current. | |
| GND | Common emitter return | Shared emitter return for all eight Darlington pairs.Connection guidanceJoin the controller and load-supply grounds. This lead carries the combined output current. Route its return with appropriate copper and low impedance. | |
| COM | Clamp-diode common | Common cathodes of the eight internal inductive-load diodes.Connection guidanceConnect to the positive coil supply for inductive loads. COM is not a logic supply or ground. The driver inputs do not require a separate VCC pin. | |
| O8 | Open-collector output | Collector of Darlington channel 8.Connection guidanceConnect to the low side of the load; its other side goes to the positive load rail. Sinks current only. A HIGH input turns this output on; allow for its saturation voltage and package heating. | |
| O7 | Open-collector output | Collector of Darlington channel 7.Connection guidanceConnect to the low side of the load; its other side goes to the positive load rail. Sinks current only. A HIGH input turns this output on; allow for its saturation voltage and package heating. | |
| O6 | Open-collector output | Collector of Darlington channel 6.Connection guidanceConnect to the low side of the load; its other side goes to the positive load rail. Sinks current only. A HIGH input turns this output on; allow for its saturation voltage and package heating. | |
| O5 | Open-collector output | Collector of Darlington channel 5.Connection guidanceConnect to the low side of the load; its other side goes to the positive load rail. Sinks current only. A HIGH input turns this output on; allow for its saturation voltage and package heating. | |
| O4 | Open-collector output | Collector of Darlington channel 4.Connection guidanceConnect to the low side of the load; its other side goes to the positive load rail. Sinks current only. A HIGH input turns this output on; allow for its saturation voltage and package heating. | |
| O3 | Open-collector output | Collector of Darlington channel 3.Connection guidanceConnect to the low side of the load; its other side goes to the positive load rail. Sinks current only. A HIGH input turns this output on; allow for its saturation voltage and package heating. | |
| O2 | Open-collector output | Collector of Darlington channel 2.Connection guidanceConnect to the low side of the load; its other side goes to the positive load rail. Sinks current only. A HIGH input turns this output on; allow for its saturation voltage and package heating. | |
| O1 | Open-collector output | Collector of Darlington channel 1.Connection guidanceConnect to the low side of the load; its other side goes to the positive load rail. Sinks current only. A HIGH input turns this output on; allow for its saturation voltage and package heating. |
No pins match these filters. Try another signal name or reset the filters.
Input and output pairs
18 physical pins · top view
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| Parameter | Value | Conditions / notes |
|---|---|---|
| Channel 1 | I1 pin 1 → O1 pin 18 | HIGH input enables the current sink |
| Channel 2 | I2 pin 2 → O2 pin 17 | HIGH input enables the current sink |
| Channel 3 | I3 pin 3 → O3 pin 16 | HIGH input enables the current sink |
| Channel 4 | I4 pin 4 → O4 pin 15 | HIGH input enables the current sink |
| Channel 5 | I5 pin 5 → O5 pin 14 | HIGH input enables the current sink |
| Channel 6 | I6 pin 6 → O6 pin 13 | HIGH input enables the current sink |
| Channel 7 | I7 pin 7 → O7 pin 12 | HIGH input enables the current sink |
| Channel 8 | I8 pin 8 → O8 pin 11 | HIGH input enables the current sink |
| Ground return | Pin 9 | Controller and load ground |
| Diode common | Pin 10 | Positive inductive-load supply |
No specifications match. Try a parameter name or a unit.
Output numbering runs in the opposite direction across the package.
Electrical characteristics
Toshiba ULN2803A · 25°C
Scroll within the table to see all columns and rows.
| Parameter | Value | Conditions / notes |
|---|---|---|
| Input resistor | 2.7 kΩ | Internal series resistor |
| Saturation voltage at 100 mA | 0.9 V typical; 1.1 V maximum | Input current 250 µA |
| Saturation voltage at 200 mA | 1.1 V typical; 1.3 V maximum | Input current 350 µA |
| Saturation voltage at 350 mA | 1.3 V typical; 1.6 V maximum | Input current 500 µA |
| Input current at 3.85 V | 0.93 mA typical; 1.35 mA maximum | ULN2803APG / AFWG |
| Input ON voltage | 2.4 / 2.7 / 3.0 V maximum | Output 200 / 250 / 300 mA; VCE = 2 V |
| Output leakage | 50 µA maximum at 25°C; 100 µA at 85°C | VCE = 50 V |
| Clamp diode drop | 2.0 V maximum | Forward current 350 mA |
No specifications match. Try a parameter name or a unit.
These values refer to the selected Toshiba parts; similar names from other manufacturers can have different limits.
Multi-channel operation
Eight active circuits · manufacturer conditions
Scroll within the table to see all columns and rows.
| Parameter | Value | Conditions / notes |
|---|---|---|
| DIP-18 at 10% duty | 347 mA per channel maximum | 25 ms pulse width; eight circuits |
| DIP-18 at 50% duty | 123 mA per channel maximum | 25 ms pulse width; eight circuits |
| SOP-18 at 10% duty | 268 mA per channel maximum | 25 ms pulse width; eight circuits |
| SOP-18 at 50% duty | 90 mA per channel maximum | 25 ms pulse width; eight circuits |
| DIP power at 85°C | 0.76 W maximum | Recommended operating conditions |
| SOP power at 85°C | 0.48 W maximum | 75 × 114 × 1.6 mm glass-epoxy board; 20% copper |
No specifications match. Try a parameter name or a unit.
Pulse figures are not DC current guarantees. Use the manufacturer duty-cycle and temperature curves for the actual board.
Relay-bank calculations
12 V supply · 240 Ω per coil
Scroll within the table to see all columns and rows.
| Parameter | Value | Conditions / notes |
|---|---|---|
| Assumed driver drop | 0.90 V | Fixed teaching estimate |
| Coil voltage | 11.10 V | 12 − 0.90 |
| Current per energized coil | 46.25 mA | 11.10 / 240 |
| Output loss per channel | 41.625 mW | 0.90 × 0.04625 |
| Eight coils energized | 370 mA | Eight identical loads |
| Eight output stages | 333 mW | Does not include input power or switching loss |
| Ground and COM | Pin 9 = GND; pin 10 = +12 V | Never swap these two connections |
No specifications match. Try a parameter name or a unit.
Check relay pickup voltage and supply tolerances. This explorer illustrates steady-state arithmetic, not relay mechanics or temperature.
Absolute maximum ratings
25°C unless otherwise noted
Scroll within the table to see all columns and rows.
| Parameter | Value | Conditions / notes |
|---|---|---|
| Output sustaining voltage | −0.5 to 50 V | Stress range |
| Output current | 500 mA per channel | Subject to total dissipation |
| Input voltage | −0.5 to 30 V | Normal example uses 5 V logic |
| Clamp reverse voltage / forward current | 50 V / 500 mA | Absolute maximum ratings |
| DIP total power | 1.47 W | 25°C; derate at higher ambient temperature |
| SOP total power | 0.92 W; 1.31 W on specified board | Board: 75 × 114 × 1.6 mm; 20% copper |
| Operating / storage temperature | −40–85°C / −55–150°C | Ambient operation / unpowered storage |
No specifications match. Try a parameter name or a unit.
Do not combine independent absolute maxima as an operating point. No automatic overcurrent protection is provided.
Packages and timing
ULN2803APG · PDIP-18
Scroll within the table to see all columns and rows.
| Parameter | Value | Conditions / notes |
|---|---|---|
| DIP body | 22.86 × 6.40 mm nominal | 7.62 mm lead rows; 2.54 mm pitch |
| SOP body | 11.35–11.68 × 7.37–7.62 mm | 10.01–10.64 mm outer lead span; 1.27 mm pitch |
| Selected PCB geometry | DIL18 / SO18W | Wide SOP geometry; not the narrow SOP18 pattern |
| Typical turn-on / turn-off | 0.1 / 0.2 µs | RL = 125 Ω; VOUT = 50 V; manufacturer test circuit |
| Pulse test drive | 3 V HIGH; 50 µs; 10% duty | Specified switching test, not the relay example |
| Unused pins | Inputs held LOW; outputs open | COM connected for any inductive loads |
No specifications match. Try a parameter name or a unit.
Footprints are reviewed generic package patterns. Confirm hole, land and assembly tolerances against the purchased part.
No matching rowsTry a pin name, parameter, unit or test condition, or reset the filters.
Relay banks
Control up to eight low-voltage relay coils, with the load supply tied to COM for flyback suppression.
Manufacturer application guideUnipolar steppers
Sequence coil sinks with the winding common at the positive supply. A bipolar motor needs a different drive arrangement.
Manufacturer application guideIndicators and lamps
Switch current-limited LEDs or lamps while allowing for inrush and the Darlington voltage drop.
Manufacturer application guideTake it into ProTech
Find ULN2803A in the Components Library to place its schematic symbol and connect its pins.
Reference page · circuit simulation model not yet availableOpen ProTech
