Integrated quad low-side switch saves space in smart automation
The IPS4260L quad low-side intelligent power switch boosts efficiency and reliability in industrial automation, claims STMicroelectronics. It has four 260mOhm (typical) RDS(ON) power switches and protection features in a space-efficient, thermally enhanced package.
The IC can manage up to 2.4A at TAMB=85 degree C (0.6A per channel or 2.4A on single channel) with the possibility to set the current limitation threshold by external resistor and to parallelise the channel.
The very low rise and fall time (tr, tf less than one micro second) allows high switching frequency (up to 250kHz) and makes the IPS4260L suitable for servo drives, motor controls, industrial-PC peripherals, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), and general low-side switching of loads connected to the positive supply, to provide rich diagnostics for smart industry or industry 4.0 applications.
The diagnostic features include open-load detection that operates while outputs are in the off state, which prevents hazards due to failures such as wire breaks.Current limiting with non-dissipative cut-off shuts down the output stage after a user-selectable period in the event of over-current. An external resistor determines the limiting period, and restart is attempted automatically.
In order to ensure quick response even with inductive loads (such as motors), the IPS4260L power switch integrates a smart architecture for fast demagnetization based on a single external clamp diode shared between the four channels, explains ST.
There are also two common open-drain pins for indicating open-load and overload/thermal-shutdown, and four I/O open-drain pins for per channel overload/thermal-shutdown signalisation.
An extensive ecosystem supports the IPS4260L as a member of ST’s family of intelligent power switches. It includes a dedicated GUI, the STSW-IFP029GUI, for configuring the device, a detailed user manual (UM2297), and the STEVAL-IFP029V1 evaluation board. The board meets international safety standards for industrial equipment, with galvanic isolation between logic and power stages, reverse-polarity protection, and compliance with EMC regulations and IEC61000-4 specifications.
The IPS4260L is in production now, in miniaturised HTSSOP20 thermally enhanced TSSOP.
