STMicroelectronics STA7360

Overview

STA7360 from STMicroelectronics is a Class-AB stereo/bridge audio power amplifier in Multiwatt11V package, delivering 20 W per channel into 4 Ω (stereo) or 40 W into 4 Ω (bridge), with fixed 20 dB gain, programmable turn-on delay, and open-collector clipping detector output for automatic volume control. It operates from 8–18 V supply and features no bootstrap capacitors or Boucherot cells.

For engineers reviewing the STA7360 datasheet, STA7360 pinout, STA7360 application, or STA7360 equivalent, this device supports low-noise stereo/bridge audio systems requiring rail-to-rail output swing, loudspeaker protection, thermal shutdown, and pop-free startup/shutdown in consumer and automotive infotainment amplifiers.

Technical Context

The STA7360 uses a fully complementary PNP/NPN output stage with isolated-collector ICV-PNP transistors enabling rail-to-rail swing and eliminating bootstrap capacitors. Its internal compensation ensures stability at unity-gain configurations while maintaining >45 dB SVR at 100 Hz with 22 µF SVR capacitor.

A dual-channel clipping detector monitors both output stages independently; its open-collector CLIP DET pin drives external AV control logic. The delayed turn-on mute circuit activates only after SVR reaches ~2.5 V, preventing audible pop during power-up and ensuring safe output voltage ramping before signal enablement.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

STA7360 is housed in the Multiwatt11V package - a 11-pin vertical-mount SIP with integrated heat slug (pin 6 tab connected to P-GND). The package provides high thermal conductivity (R_{th j-case} = 1.8 °C/W) and mechanical robustness for board-level mounting in vibration-prone environments.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar stereo/bridge audio amplifier applications.

Compared with TDA7297 and TPA3116D2, the STA7360 offers unique analog clipping detection, zero-bootstrap operation, and pop-free muting in a single-package Class-AB solution - ideal for cost-sensitive, low-EMI, and analog-control-centric audio systems where simplicity and reliability outweigh raw efficiency or peak power metrics.

Availability

STA7360 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for car audio head units, portable Bluetooth speakers, industrial public address systems, and home theater subwoofers requiring stable component supply and long-term manufacturing continuity.

Supply support for STA7360 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 analog, mixed-signal, and power ICs for automotive, industrial, and consumer markets.

The STA7360 belongs to ST's audio power amplifier product line, engineered specifically for cost-effective, low-EMI, and thermally robust analog audio solutions in 12 V systems where simplicity, reliability, and analog signal integrity are prioritized over switching efficiency.

FAQ

What is the purpose of the SVR pin and how does it affect startup behavior?

The SVR pin serves dual functions: it sets supply voltage rejection performance and controls the turn-on mute delay. A capacitor (22–100 µF) from SVR to ground determines the time constant for internal voltage ramping; only when SVR reaches ~2.5 V does the amplifier unmute, ensuring zero output transient. This eliminates pop noise without external timing circuitry.

Can the STA7360 drive 2 Ω loads in stereo mode?

Yes - the datasheet specifies 7 W output into 2 Ω at 10% THD with 14.4 V supply. However, thermal limits require careful heatsinking: at 2 Ω, power dissipation exceeds 20 W, demanding R_{th j-amb} ≤ 3.5 °C/W. ST recommends using 4 Ω minimum for sustained operation without forced cooling.

How does the clipping detector work and what external components are needed?

The clipping detector monitors both output channels independently and pulls the open-collector CLIP DET pin low when either channel exceeds 90% of rail voltage. No external components are required - a pull-up resistor to 3.3 V or 5 V (e.g., 10 kΩ) suffices to interface with MCU GPIO or comparator inputs for automatic gain reduction.

Is the STA7360 still in active production given its 2011 datasheet revision?

While the latest public datasheet is Rev 4 (Dec 2011), STMicroelectronics continues to list STA7360 as active and available through authorized distributors including Digi-Key and Arrow. No obsolescence notice has been issued; Aetrix Electronics confirms ongoing supply with full traceability and extended lifecycle support.