ULN2803

I have read the data sheet for the above IC and it says
that it has got SHUNT DIODES built in (relays, coils)

BUT, every example of circuits used with this chipo have
an EXTERNAL shunt diode


WHY IS THIS??

Can you post a couple of example URLs?

Hereis a link to circuit that uses this chip. No shunt doides are used to drive the 12 Volt relay coils.
Dialtone

https://www.electro-tech-online.com/custompdfs/2004/04/k74v2.pdf

Flywheels

Dialtone
The circuit diagram for kit 74v2 does have shunt diodes, those integral to the ULN2803 are being used in this application, they all have a common connection for their cathodes, pin 10, connected to the relays' +12v supply rail.

Asjad
I would be interested to see a circuit driving inductive loads and ignoring the internal diodes in favour of external diodes, it just seems wasteful !