WHen I really need to use a 10V FET from a PIC, I always put a FET driver
in front of it.  They cost a little, but it sure help to get RDSon way down
there.

Andy



At 11:39 PM 4/9/98 EDT, you wrote:
>I'm trying to use a PIC to control several amps (PWM).  From what I read in
>catalogs, etc. MOSFETs are the way to go so I bought a 4A MOSFET (IFR510) at
>RadioShack.  The ratings and specifications that came with the mosfet says
>"low drive current".  The PIC manual says "high source current (~20mA).  Am I
>safe to attach a PIC output pin directly to the gate of the mosfet or is
there
>a safer way to do this.
>
>Looking throught the MOSFET list in the DigiKey catalog I only see one column
>with the mA units (Id) so I'm guessing that's the drive current.  But those
>values are ranging from about 100 to over 1000mA so I'm reluctant to
>experiment with my one remaining functioning PIC.
>
>One more question:  The MOSFET lowers it's resistance somewhat when I
apply 5V
>to the gate but doesn't seem to saturate until i hit around 10V.  Whats the
>typical (or most efficient/lowest cost/lowest hassle) way to use the PIC and
>the MOSFET to their full potential.
>
>Thanks.
>
>
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                     Andy Kunz - Montana Design
          Go fast, turn right, and keep the wet side down!
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