Automotive high side switch controller has flexible diagnostics and protection
System protection is combined with diagnostic features in the VNF1048F automotive high side switch controller by STMicroelectronics. The controller is based on ST’s I2-t silicon-fuse technology.
The VNF1048F is compatible with 12, 24V and 48V automotive power subsystems (board nets). It is designed for the latest automotive zonal electronic/electrical (E/E) architectures that boost efficiency and reliability, explained ST, supporting increased electrification and extra functions for smart driving.
The controller has a serial peripheral interface (SPI) for a host microcontroller to configure and monitor system protection and diagnostic features. These include under voltage and over temperature protection, thermal protection for the external high side MOSFET, desaturation shutdown and I2-t fuse settings. Digital current sensing is built in. ADCs for monitoring the temperature sensing thermistor voltage, output voltage and MOSFET drain source voltage are also integrated.
ST’s I2-t fuse is claimed to provide superior fast-acting, resettable, and reliable over current protection. Silicon fuses also help simplify vehicle wiring harnesses and reduce weight by eliminating user-accessible fuse boxes and the associated cabling and installation overheads. The savings in weight contribute to vehicle performance, including extended driving range and reduced CO2 emissions, said ST.
The VNF1048FTR is in production now and available in the QFN 32L 5.0 x 5.0mm 32-lead package.
