STMicroelectronics L9301-TR

Overview

L9301-TR from STMicroelectronics is an AEC-Q100 qualified automotive octal driver IC configurable as eight low-side switches (R_ON(max) = 0.3 Ω @ T_j = 175 °C) or four high/low-side + four low-side drivers (R_ON(max) = 0.6 Ω @ T_j = 175 °C), operating from 5–18 V battery supply and 4.75–5.25 V logic supply, with integrated SPI diagnostics and PWM control for body electronics load management.

For engineers reviewing the L9301-TR datasheet, L9301-TR pinout, L9301-TR application, or L9301-TR equivalent, key selection considerations include channel configuration flexibility, per-channel open-load/short-circuit diagnostics, thermal shutdown at 180–195 °C, and PowerSSO36 package thermal resistance of 8 °C/W on ECU metal plate.

Technical Context

The L9301-TR implements a dual-domain power architecture: four configurable DRN/SRC high/low-side drivers (R_ON(max) = 0.6 Ω) and eight dedicated low-side outputs (OUT1–OUT8), with OUT1–OUT4 rated at R_ON(max) = 0.6 Ω and OUT5–OUT8 at R_ON(max) = 0.3 Ω. It supports four distinct configurations via SPI or parallel inputs, including ON-OFF, PWM, and recirculation-diode modes.

SPI interface enables full register-based control of slew rate, overcurrent thresholds, and diagnostic reporting, while discrete IN1–IN8 pins allow direct PWM input to individual outputs. Integrated charge pump (CP pin) supplies gate drive for high-side operation, and dual voltage monitors (VB, VDD) provide latched fault flags with programmable response behavior.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: PowerSSO36 (exposed pad, option B), thermally enhanced surface-mount package with GND-connected exposed pad for low-junction-to-case thermal resistance (1 °C/W).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar automotive power driver applications.

Compared with TLE9201SE and VNQ7E100AJ, the L9301-TR uniquely combines octal channel count, configurable high/low-side topology, dedicated PWM inputs, and full SPI configurability-making it optimal for next-generation modular BCMs requiring mixed-load support and real-time diagnostics.

Availability

L9301-TR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body electronics, seat actuation systems, and engine bay solenoid control requiring stable component supply, AEC-Q100 compliance, and long-term production continuity.

Supply support for L9301-TR 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 specializing in automotive-grade analog, power, and microcontroller solutions with broad AEC-Q100 product portfolio and vertical manufacturing capabilities.

The L9301-TR belongs to ST's Automotive Power Switch family, designed specifically for intelligent load driving in body control modules, offering integrated diagnostics, thermal resilience, and flexible topology to replace discrete FET + driver combinations.

FAQ

What configuration modes does the L9301-TR support, and how are they selected?

The L9301-TR supports four configurations: (1) eight low-side drivers, (2) four low-side PWM + four low-side, (3) four high-side PWM + four low-side, and (4) four configurable + eight low-side. Selection is performed via SPI register writes or hardware strapping using EN and RES pins during power-up. Each mode defines pin functionality (e.g., DRN/SRC assignment) and diagnostic behavior.

How does the L9301-TR handle overcurrent events, and can the response be customized?

Each channel features independent overcurrent detection with programmable threshold and latched/unlatched response mode. When triggered, the affected output disables and sets a dedicated SPI flag. The response-whether automatic recovery or persistent latch-is configured via CR1 register bits OC_LATCH[1:0]. Fault status is readable via DIAG register, supporting ASIL-B–compliant error handling.

Can the L9301-TR drive inductive loads without external freewheeling diodes?

Yes-when configured in high-side PWM mode, the DRN/SRC pairs operate as synchronous rectifiers, enabling controlled current recirculation through the internal PowerMOS. This eliminates the need for external freewheeling diodes in solenoid and motor applications, reducing board area and improving efficiency by ~15% compared to diode-based solutions.

What thermal performance can be expected in a typical automotive ECU layout?

On a standard 2s2p 4-layer PCB mounted to an ECU metal plate, the L9301-TR achieves R_th(j-amb) = 8 °C/W. With 3 A per channel and 0.3 Ω R_ON, total conduction loss is ~2.7 W for eight channels, resulting in ~22 °C junction-to-ambient rise-well within the 175 °C maximum junction limit at 125 °C ambient.