STMicroelectronics(NYSE:STM) has revealed the latest generation of its pace-setting switch ICs for vehicle electronics such as lights and body modules. The new devices provide enhanced intelligent features, improve protection and reliability, and are up to 40% smaller than competing alternatives.
Pioneered by ST, intelligent high-side switches provide a more reliable and efficient replacement for conventional relays. For several generations, ST’s VIPower family has offered advantages such as a common package style for many devices in the range. This allows tier-one suppliers to build several module variants using the same basic hardware and software so car makers can address differing requirements in international markets and offer various model specifications and options cost-effectively. The common-package approach has become widely adopted among high-side switch vendors.
In the seventh generation of ST’s VIPower family, the M0-7 series, 75% of family members are available in a 5 x 4mm package, which is 40% smaller than the smallest competing devices. This allows car electronics designers to save PC-board space and aim for smaller module sizes. Moreover, various internal design changes increase precision, enhance diagnostic feedback, and improve reliability. Specifically, performance improvements include greater protection against short circuits, more accurate voltage and temperature feedback, increased current-sense precision, and best-in-class electromagnetic emission (EMI) performance.
The intelligent high-side switch has an important role in the development of advanced automotive electronics. It combines a power MOSFET as the main electronically controlled switch, with logic, control and sensing circuitry in a single package. It is connected between a microprocessor and loads such as lights, motors, heaters or valves, allowing the microprocessor to control the loads in response to inputs such as dashboard switches or sensors, as well as information from the intelligent circuitry in the high-side switch.
By integrating sensing, control and logic circuitry, the intelligent high-side switch is able to operate reliably with different types of loads, such as highly inductive loads like motors, or resistive loads like heaters.
