STMicroelectronics EV-VN9004AJ

Overview

EV-VN9004AJ from STMicroelectronics is a pre-assembled evaluation board for the VN9004AJ single-channel smart high-side driver in PowerSSO-16 package, designed for 12 V automotive grounded loads with 3 V/5 V CMOS-compatible control, 4.2 mΩ on-state resistance, 108 A current limit, and multiplexed analog diagnostic feedback (load current, temperature, supply voltage). It enables rapid integration into automotive power distribution systems such as glow plug or DC motor control.

For engineers reviewing the EV-VN9004AJ datasheet, EV-VN9004AJ pinout, EV-VN9004AJ application, or EV-VN9004AJ equivalent, this board provides immediate hardware validation of VN9004AJ's high-precision current sense, thermal shutdown latch-off via FaultRST, short-to-VCC detection, and deep cold-cranking operation down to 4 V per LV124 Rev. 2013.

Technical Context

The EV-VN9004AJ implements ST's VIPower M09 technology to deliver robust high-side switching with integrated diagnostics. It supports configurable fault latching (via dedicated FaultRST pin), multiplexed analog output (CS pin) for real-time load current sensing (±5% accuracy), chip temperature monitoring, and VBAT_ADC measurement - all using a single pin with time-division multiplexing.

Board-level design follows ST's recommended external component set: includes 0 Ω jumpers for flexible signal routing (IN, SEn, FaultRST), pull-up resistors for IN and SEn, Rsense for current calibration, and decoupling capacitors (C1 = 100 nF, C2 = 10 nF). CN5–CN10 connectors provide standardized access to power, ground, control, and diagnostic signals.

Key Specifications

Availability

EV-VN9004AJ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive ECU development, smart power distribution modules, and high-reliability actuator control systems requiring stable component supply, traceable sourcing, and long-term lifecycle support.

Supply support for EV-VN9004AJ 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, industrial, and power management ICs with vertical manufacturing and application-focused design centers.

The VN9004AJ product line belongs to ST's VIPower family of smart power switches, engineered specifically for automotive body electronics requiring high-current drive, integrated protection, and ISO 16750-compliant diagnostics.

FAQ

What is the purpose of the FaultRST pin on the EV-VN9004AJ board?

The FaultRST pin is a dedicated hardware reset input that unlatches the VN9004AJ output after thermal shutdown or current-limit fault events. When pulled low, it clears the latch and restores normal operation; when left floating or high, latch-off remains active. The board routes this signal to CN9 pin 2 for direct microcontroller control or manual push-button reset.

How is analog diagnostic feedback accessed on this evaluation board?

Analog diagnostic feedback is accessed via the CS pin (CN8 pin 5), which outputs time-multiplexed signals: load current (proportional mirror), die temperature, and VBAT. The board includes R65 (1 kΩ) and R66 (4.7 kΩ) to condition VBAT_ADC (CN8 pin 6) separately. No external ADC sequencing is required - timing alignment follows ST's DB4885 specification.

Does the EV-VN9004AJ support reverse battery protection?

Yes - the underlying VN9004AJ IC provides reverse battery protection via self-turn-on prevention in the power MOSFET structure, eliminating need for external series diodes. The evaluation board maintains this capability through direct connection of PGND and VBAT paths without polarity-sensitive components, validated per ISO 16750-2 Annex D.

Can the EV-VN9004AJ be used with 3.3 V microcontrollers?

Yes - the VN9004AJ input logic is fully compatible with 3 V CMOS levels, and the board's IN signal (CN9 pin 1) accepts 3.3 V TTL/CMOS drive directly. Pull-up resistors (R1, R3 = 15 kΩ) ensure valid high state; no level-shifting circuitry is required for standard 3.3 V MCU GPIO interfacing.