STMicroelectronics EV-VN5016AJ

Overview

VN5016AJ-E from STMicroelectronics is a single-channel automotive high-side driver IC with integrated analog current sense, designed for controlling resistive, inductive, or capacitive loads connected to ground. It features 16 mΩ typical on-state resistance, 65 A current limitation (typ), 4.5–36 V operating supply range, and CMOS-compatible 3.0 V logic input - enabling direct interface with microcontrollers in engine control units and body electronics.

For engineers reviewing the VN5016AJ-E datasheet, VN5016AJ-E pinout, VN5016AJ-E application, or VN5016AJ-E equivalent, key selection criteria include its proportional current sense accuracy across wide load ranges (±8% ratio drift), thermal shutdown with automatic restart, reverse battery protection capability, and ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5b compliance up to +87 V when used with external clamp.

Technical Context

The VN5016AJ-E implements VIPower M0-5 technology to integrate power MOSFET, protection circuitry, and analog current sensing in a single monolithic die. Its active VCC clamp (41–52 V) handles low-energy transients per ISO 7637-2 Pulse 1/2a/3a/3b/4/5b, while self-limiting thermal response prevents destructive latch-up during sustained overload.

Current sense functionality operates via a precision proportional current mirror (K₀ = 2760–7240 A/A at 0.25 A), disabled by CS_DIS high (≥2.1 V). Diagnostic outputs include thermal shutdown indication and open-load detection (10–45 mA threshold), all coordinated through internal status logic mapped to truth table behavior under fault conditions.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: PowerSSO-12™ - thermally enhanced exposed-pad SO-12 package with integrated heatsink tab tied to VCC for low R_thj-case (0.5°C/W).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar high-side driver applications.

Compared with VN5016AJ-E, STVN5050AJTR trades analog sense capability for higher current capacity and lower conduction loss, while BTS7008-1EPP replaces analog feedback with digital reporting and requires PCB redesign due to differing thermal pad layout and pinout.

Availability

VN5016AJ-E is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive engine control, body electronics, and transmission systems requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and AEC-Q100 qualified parts.

Supply support for VN5016AJ-E 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

STMicroelectronics is a global semiconductor leader headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, specializing in automotive-grade power ICs, microcontrollers, and sensors with broad AEC-Q100 qualification coverage.

The VN5016AJ-E belongs to ST's VIPower family of intelligent power switches, engineered specifically for demanding 12 V/24 V automotive applications requiring robust protection, precise diagnostics, and high reliability under harsh environmental conditions.

FAQ

What is the maximum continuous output current rating for VN5016AJ-E?

The VN5016AJ-E does not specify a fixed continuous current rating due to thermal dependence on PCB layout and ambient conditions. Its current limitation is set at 65 A (typ) for short-circuit protection, but sustained current must be derated based on junction temperature - typically ≤15 A with 100 cm² copper area and free-air convection, per Figure 29 thermal data.

How does the current sense disable (CS_DIS) function affect diagnostic operation?

When CS_DIS is driven high (>2.1 V), the CURRENT SENSE pin enters high-impedance state (leakage <1 µA), disabling analog feedback and preventing false readings during MCU sleep or fault isolation. Current sense resumes within 5–20 µs after CS_DIS falls, with delay dependent on load current magnitude per Figure 4.

Can VN5016AJ-E drive inductive loads without external flyback protection?

No. While the device integrates an internal clamp diode from OUTPUT to VCC (VF ≈ 0.7 V), it is only rated for low-energy demagnetization (≤304 mJ at 13.5 V). For high-inductance loads like starter solenoids or large relays, an external TVS or Zener clamp referenced to VCC is required to absorb excess energy and prevent VCC rail collapse.

What is the recommended PCB layout practice for thermal management?

Mount the PowerSSO-12™ package on ≥100 cm² of 2 oz copper connected directly to the exposed TAB (VCC), using ≥6 thermal vias (0.3 mm diameter) under the pad. Avoid routing signal traces beneath the thermal pad, and ensure GND plane separation from VCC pour to minimize coupling per Figure 28 reference layout.