EKM034 1-ch MOSFET Module 24V 5A

Part.no: 41036492

Simple driver module with one powerful N-channel FET. This module can be used for speed control for one DC-motor, dimming LED lamps and LED strips or for controlling other resistive, inductive or capacitive loads.

The onboard transistor has a gate input with very low threshold voltage, suitable for direct control from logic signals down to around 2V (3.3V and 5V capable). The transistor channel resistance is also extremely low, which enables control of high current loads without excessive heat.

The module has a diode for protecting the transistor against transient voltages from inductive loads, such as DC motors, solenoids and contactors.

Maximum load is dependent on the combination of voltage and current. Maximum power however is limited to around 120W. See Fig. 8 in the datasheet for maximum voltage and current combinations.

Maximum switching frequency is dependent on the gate voltage and available drive current for the transistor gate (and also the applied voltage on VIN and the current drawn by the load). The limiting factor being how fast the transistor is able to transition from off to on, where a lower gate voltage and less current will cause the transistor to spend more time in its linear region, which will cause the transistor to heat up. When the input pin is driven from a 3.3V GPIO from a regular microcontroller, expect a maximum frequency in the range of 1-2kHz. With a 5V GPIO, around 10-20kHz. By using a small-signal transistor with a 10V collector voltage, switching frequencies of 100kHz and beyond can be achieved. For small loads, the switching losses are less of a concern and higher frequencies are also possible, even with 3.3V gate voltage from a GPIO.

The onboard LED is connected to the gate and provides a visual feedback of the transistor state.

Supplied with a 3-pin pin header and a 4-pole screw terminal (not pre-mounted).

Functions

3.3V and 5V logic control (20V max)
Drive large loads from a microcontroller
Miniature format, no heatsink required
Status LED for transistor

Specifications

Maximum load voltage: 100V*
Maximum load current: 60A*
Maximum combined power: 120W
Internal resistance: <19mOhm (@ 4.5Vgs)
Logic level: 2 - 20V
Mounting holes: ø2.5 mm / c-c 16 mm
Dimensions: 24 x 21 mm

* Please see Fig. 8 in the datasheet for safe operating area

Connections

Control Input

The module is controlled using just two pins, IN and GND. To open the transistor and apply power to the connected load, simply drive the IN pin high.

The module can be used for PWM control of LEDs, motors and other loads. With 3.3V signal levels, the maximum frequency and current is limited. Using 5V or higher signal levels will increase the usable PWM frequency significantly.

The VL pin is only used for powering the onboard LED and can be left unconnected if visual feedback of the transistor status is not required.

The GND pin must always be connected to the same ground as the source of the control signal to establish a common reference. Please note that the GND is shared between the input side and the transistor. If complete galvanic isolation between control input and transistor is required, an opto-coupler or similar device must be used.

Pin	Function
VL	LED voltage supply
IN	Transistor gate input
GND	Ground connection

Transistor

The transistor is wired as a low-side switch, which means that it can only switch the negative side of a connected load. The positive terminal of the load is always connected to V+. If the connected load is chassis grounded (common in automotive applications), this module will not work. For chassis grounded loads or devices where the positive terminal must be switched, a high-side switch is required.

Maximum voltage between VIN and GND is 100V. Maximum current draw for a connected load is 12A.

Please note that the transistor will handle a maximum of 120W. Example: If the load draws 10A, maximum allowed voltage is 12V. If the load is supplied with 24V, maximum current must be equal to or less than 5A.

Pin	Function
GND	Negative power supply
VIN	Positive power supply (connected to OUT+)
OUT+	Positive terminal (connected to VIN)
OUT-	Negative terminal (switched)

Schematic and Wiring

The connections for the supply voltage and load are compatible with 5mm pitch screw terminals. Two terminals are included, which can be soldered to the board. The terminals will fit wires with an area from 0.75mm² to 1.5mm² (~AWG 21-15). The connections for the control input and LED voltage will fit a regular 2.54mm pitch pin header or small gauge hookup wire.

Connect VIN and GND to a power supply capable of supplying enough voltage and current to power the load. Connect OUT+ and OUT- to the load.

When the control input, IN, is high, the transistor will conduct and the load is powered. When the control input is low or left floating, the transistor is high impedence and the load is disconnected.