Allegro MicroSystems ARG81402KETATR

Overview

ARG81402KETATR from Allegro MicroSystems is a multi-output power management IC integrating a 2.2 MHz synchronous buck pre-regulator (5.35 V/600 mA), five LDOs (3.3 V/300 mA, four 5 V rails including one short-to-battery-protected 5 V/100 mA output), SPI interface, triple watchdog (pulse period, window, Q&A), and ASIL D SEooC safety architecture. It powers microprocessors, CAN transceivers, and sensors in automotive EPS and ABS systems.

For engineers reviewing the ARG81402KETATR datasheet, ARG81402KETATR pinout, ARG81402KETATR application, or ARG81402KETATR equivalent, key selection criteria include its 6–36 V input range, dual-bandgap fault detection, wettable-flank 32-pin QFN package, and SPI-configurable rail enable/disable and watchdog modes.

Technical Context

The ARG81402KETATR implements a high-frequency (2.2 MHz) synchronous buck pre-regulator with frequency dithering and slew-rate control to reduce EMI, feeding five independent linear regulators. Its safety architecture includes two independent bandgaps-one for regulation, one for fault checking-and latched fault reporting via NPOR and FFn outputs.

Control is fully managed through a 4-wire SPI interface supporting register read/write, enabling dynamic configuration of watchdog timers (including flash mode and secure reset), individual 5 V rail disable, and real-time fault status interrogation. All LDOs feature foldback overcurrent protection, and the V5P rail adds short-to-supply protection for remote sensor interfaces.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

ARG81402KETATR is housed in a 32-lead, 5 mm × 5 mm, 0.5 mm pitch QFN package (suffix "ET") with exposed thermal pad and wettable flank for solder joint inspection and enhanced thermal performance.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar multi-output PMIC applications.

Compared with MAX20090ATG/V+T and TPS65381A-Q1, ARG81402KETATR uniquely integrates a dithered 2.2 MHz buck pre-regulator, five independently controllable LDOs (including V5P with short-to-battery protection), triple watchdogs, and dual-bandgap ASIL D safety architecture - making it the only option qualified for EPS and ABS systems requiring full functional safety compliance.

Availability

ARG81402KETATR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for electronic power steering (EPS), advanced braking systems (ABS), and transmission control units (TCU) requiring stable component supply, automotive-grade longevity, and ASIL D safety certification.

Supply support for ARG81402KETATR includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

Allegro MicroSystems is a U.S.-based semiconductor company specializing in high-performance power ICs, magnetic sensors, and motion control solutions for automotive and industrial markets.

The ARG81402 product line delivers integrated, safety-certified power management for next-generation automotive ECUs-designed specifically for EPS, ABS, and TCU applications demanding ASIL D compliance, robust fault diagnostics, and compact thermal packaging.

FAQ

What is the input voltage range supported by the ARG81402KETATR?

The ARG81402KETATR supports an operating input voltage range of 6 V to 36 V, with an absolute maximum rating of 40 V. Its VIN UVLO start threshold is 5.7 V (typical), and stop threshold is 4.25 V (typical), providing 1.3 V hysteresis to ensure reliable operation during automotive cold-crank events. This range makes ARG81402KETATR suitable for 12 V and 24 V battery systems across passenger and commercial vehicles.

How does the ARG81402KETATR implement functional safety for ASIL D compliance?

The ARG81402KETATR achieves ASIL D SEooC compliance per ISO 26262 through dual independent bandgap references (one for regulation, one for fault checking), latched fault reporting via NPOR and FFn outputs, SPI-accessible fault registers, and triple watchdog timers (pulse period, window, Q&A). Its safety manual defines usage constraints, and the device is AEC-Q100 Grade 0 qualified (−40°C to +150°C TJ), ensuring ARG81402KETATR meets rigorous automotive safety requirements.

Which output rail of the ARG81402KETATR provides short-to-battery protection, and why is it important?

The V5P rail (pin 28) of the ARG81402KETATR provides short-to-battery protection, rated for 100 mA output. This feature is critical for powering remote sensors connected via long wiring harnesses, where parasitic inductance can generate destructive negative voltage spikes during short-circuit events. ARG81402KETATR automatically disconnects V5P upon detection, eliminating the need for external clamping diodes and improving system robustness in EPS and emissions modules.

Can the individual 5 V LDOs on the ARG81402KETATR be enabled or disabled independently?

Yes, the ARG81402KETATR allows independent enable/disable control of all four 5 V LDOs (V5A, V5B, V5CAN, V5P) via its serial peripheral interface (SPI). This capability supports dynamic power sequencing, rail-specific fault recovery, and low-power sleep modes. The SPI interface also enables real-time monitoring of each rail's status, fault conditions, and watchdog states - a key advantage of ARG81402KETATR over fixed-function PMICs.

What package type and thermal characteristics does the ARG81402KETATR use?

The ARG81402KETATR uses a 32-pin eQFN package (5 mm × 5 mm, 0.5 mm pitch) with exposed thermal pad and wettable flank, designated by suffix "ET". Its junction-to-ambient thermal resistance (RθJA) is 30°C/W on a 4-layer JEDEC-standard PCB. The wettable flank design enables automated optical inspection of all 32 solder joints - a critical requirement for zero-defect automotive manufacturing and ARG81402KETATR's deployment in safety-critical ECUs.