STMicroelectronics EV-VN7040AJ

Overview

EV-VN7040AJ from STMicroelectronics is a pre-assembled evaluation board for the VN7040AJ-E single-channel smart high-side driver in PowerSSO-16 package, operating from 4–28 V supply with 40 mΩ on-state resistance and 34 A current limit, designed for automotive load prototyping with MultiSense analog diagnostics and fault reset capability.

For engineers reviewing the EV-VN7040AJ datasheet, EV-VN7040AJ pinout, EV-VN7040AJ application, or EV-VN7040AJ equivalent, this board enables rapid validation of VIPower® M0-7 high-side switching behavior, thermal performance under load transients, diagnostic multiplexing (load current/VCC/temperature), and latch-off recovery via FaultRST - all without external component design.

Technical Context

The EV-VN7040AJ implements ST's VIPower® M0-7 technology to deliver robust high-side drive for 12 V automotive grounded loads, supporting CMOS-compatible 3 V/5 V control inputs and featuring integrated protection against undervoltage, overvoltage, overload, short-to-VCC, open-load (OFF-state), and thermal runaway.

Its diagnostic architecture centers on the multiplexed MultiSense pin, which outputs proportional current for three selectable parameters - load current (via internal current mirror), VCC supply voltage, and chip temperature - enabled by S_EN and selected via SEL0/SEL1 logic, with dedicated fault indication and configurable latch-off behavior.

Key Specifications

Availability

EV-VN7040AJ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body electronics prototyping, ECU functional safety validation, and industrial high-side switching development requiring stable component supply and traceable evaluation hardware.

Supply support for EV-VN7040AJ 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, designing and manufacturing microcontrollers, power ICs, sensors, and automotive-grade analog devices for industrial, automotive, and consumer applications.

The EV-VN7040AJ belongs to ST's VIPower® evaluation board family, developed specifically to accelerate adoption of their smart power high-side drivers in automotive load control systems requiring diagnostics, protection, and ASIL-ready validation paths.

FAQ

What is the purpose of the MultiSense pin on the EV-VN7040AJ board?

The MultiSense pin delivers a multiplexed analog current output proportional to one of three internal signals - load current (via precision current mirror), VCC supply voltage, or chip junction temperature - selected using SEL0/SEL1 logic and enabled by the S_EN pin. It enables real-time system-level monitoring without additional ADC channels.

How does the FaultRST pin function during a thermal shutdown event?

FaultRST is an active-low CMOS-compatible input that unlatches the VN7040AJ-E output after a thermal shutdown or power-limiting fault. If held low continuously, it configures auto-restart behavior; if pulsed low, it resets the latch once, allowing controlled recovery without cycling power.

Can the EV-VN7040AJ evaluate both open-load and short-to-VCC detection?

Yes - the board supports OFF-state open-load detection via optional external pull-up resistor on J3 pin 5 (IN_PullUP), and short-to-VCC detection through the device's internal sensing circuitry. Both diagnostics are reported via the MultiSense pin and reflected in fault status when enabled.

What PCB layout features ensure reliable thermal performance on this evaluation board?

The board uses 2-layer FR4 with 35 µm copper, 1.6 mm thickness, and a defined thermal via pattern (0.5 mm diameter, 1.1 mm spacing) under the PowerSSO-16 footprint. This achieves a measured R_thj-amb of 39 °C/W, enabling sustained operation up to 34 A with appropriate heatsinking or airflow.