STMicroelectronics EV-VNQ7140AJ

Overview

EV-VNQ7140AJ from STMicroelectronics is a pre-assembled evaluation board for the VNQ7140AJ quad-channel smart high-side driver in PowerSSO-16 package, designed for 12 V automotive load control with analog feedback, current limiting (12 A typ), and thermal shutdown. It supports resistive/inductive/capacitive loads and integrates diagnostic multiplexing via MultiSense pin.

For engineers reviewing the EV-VNQ7140AJ datasheet, EV-VNQ7140AJ pinout, EV-VNQ7140AJ application, or EV-VNQ7140AJ equivalent, this board enables rapid prototyping of automotive power switching systems with configurable fault reset, open-load detection, and external sense resistor options (through-hole or SMD).

Technical Context

The board implements the VNQ7140AJ VIPower M0-7 IC, featuring four independent high-side switches with CMOS-compatible 3 V/5 V inputs, integrated current-sense mirror, and multiplexed analog output delivering proportional load current, VCC, and TCHIP signals. FaultRST pin provides active-low latching control.

Diagnostic functions include OFF-state open-load detection (via IN_PullUP), short-to-VCC detection, overload indication, and thermal shutdown with configurable latch-off. Protection includes undervoltage shutdown, overvoltage clamp, reverse battery support (with external components), and ESD protection per IEC 61000-4-2.

Key Specifications

Availability

EV-VNQ7140AJ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body control modules, lighting control units, HVAC actuators, and electronic fuse replacement systems requiring stable component supply and validated reference designs.

Supply support for EV-VNQ7140AJ 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 solutions with vertical manufacturing and broad IP portfolio.

The EV-VNQ7140AJ belongs to ST's VIPower® evaluation platform family, engineered to accelerate development of robust, diagnostics-enabled high-side switching solutions for 12 V automotive applications.

FAQ

What is the purpose of the FaultRST pin on the EV-VNQ7140AJ board?

FaultRST is an active-low input that unlatches the VNQ7140AJ outputs after thermal shutdown, overload, or short-circuit faults. When held low, it configures auto-restart mode; when pulsed low, it resets latched faults. It is CMOS-compatible with both 3 V and 5 V logic levels and directly interfaces with microcontroller GPIOs.

How does the MultiSense pin deliver diagnostic information?

The MultiSense pin outputs a proportional current (not voltage) selected via SEL0–SEL2 address lines: load current (±1% accuracy), VCC supply voltage, or chip temperature. It requires an external sense resistor (RSENSE) mounted at TP1–TP2 or SMD pads to convert current to measurable voltage for MCU ADC sampling.

Can the EV-VNQ7140AJ drive inductive loads like solenoids or motors?

Yes - the VNQ7140AJ IC on this board integrates active power limitation and fast thermal transient self-limiting, enabling safe driving of inductive loads such as fuel injectors, door locks, and HVAC dampers. Integrated clamp diodes and overvoltage protection suppress flyback energy without external components.

Is external reverse-battery protection required for automotive use?

Reverse-battery protection is not integrated into the VNQ7140AJ IC; the board documentation specifies it requires external components (e.g., series MOSFET or diode) to meet ISO 16750-2 requirements. The board layout includes space and routing provisions for adding such protection externally.