STMicroelectronics VN02H

Overview

VN02H from STMicroelectronics is a high-side smart power solid-state relay IC built with VIPower technology, designed for driving resistive or inductive loads with one side grounded. It features 60 V V_DSS, 0.4 Ω R_DS(on) at 3 A, 6 A continuous output current, 5 V logic-compatible input, and open-drain diagnostic output-used in automotive body control modules for lamp and solenoid switching.

For engineers reviewing the VN02H datasheet, VN02H pinout, VN02H application, or VN02H equivalent, key selection criteria include thermal shutdown threshold (140–160 °C), under-voltage lockout (2.5–5 V), diagnostic status interpretation, and PENTAWATT vertical/horizontal package compatibility with PCB layout constraints.

Technical Context

The VN02H integrates a high-side N-channel Power MOSFET with embedded protection logic, current-sensing circuitry, and thermal shutdown. Its diagnostic output signals open-load and over-temperature conditions via voltage-level encoding per truth table, with internal clamping on VIH (6 V) and VSTAT (0.4 V low, 5.5 V clamp high).

Switching behavior is characterized by 5–20 µs turn-on delay, 2–15 µs fall time, and controlled di/dt slopes (0.05–0.5 A/µs on, 0.1–2 A/µs off) to limit inductive kickback. Load dump immunity complies with ISO TR 17631 Pulse 5 Level III, and reverse-battery protection requires external Schottky diode or signal-ground isolation per application circuits.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

PENTAWATT (vertical) package: 5-pin, single-in-line, thermally enhanced through-hole mount with exposed metal tab (pin 5) for heatsinking. Pin 1 = GND, Pin 2 = INPUT, Pin 3 = DRAIN, Pin 4 = SOURCE, Pin 5 = CASE (connected to SOURCE internally).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar high-side smart power switch applications.

Compared with STSPIN250 and BTS716G, the VN02H offers superior single-channel thermal robustness (28 W P_tot), lower R_DS(on), and dedicated open-load diagnostics-making it optimal for cost-sensitive, single-load automotive body applications where simplicity and proven field reliability are prioritized over digital control or functional safety certification.

Availability

VN02H is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive lamp control, engine cooling fan drive, transmission solenoid interface, and industrial valve actuation requiring stable component supply across extended temperature and lifecycle demands.

Supply support for VN02H 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 vertically integrated manufacturing.

The VN02H belongs to ST's VIPower M0-3 family of high-side smart power switches, engineered specifically for robust, low-component-count load driving in harsh automotive environments with integrated protection and diagnostics.

FAQ

What is the maximum continuous output current and under what thermal conditions?

The VN02H delivers 6 A continuous output current only when case temperature (T_c) is maintained at 25 °C. At T_c = 85 °C, its average short-circuit current rating drops to 0.9–1.8 A, and full 6 A operation requires active heatsinking to hold R_thj-case ≤ 4.4 °C/W. Derating curves in the datasheet confirm 3.5 A max at T_c = 70 °C.

How does the open-drain diagnostic output indicate open-circuit versus over-temperature conditions?

The diagnostic output uses voltage-level encoding per the truth table: low (≤0.4 V) indicates normal operation; high (≥5.5 V) indicates either open-circuit (no load) or over-temperature. Distinguishing between them requires timing analysis-open-circuit status appears immediately after turn-on, while over-temperature occurs after sustained overload and persists until junction cools below 125–145 °C.

Can the VN02H operate directly from a 42 V load-dump transient without external clamping?

No. Although rated for 60 V V_DSS, the VN02H's V_CC absolute maximum is 60 V for t ≤ 400 ms-but its internal clamp activates at 36 V. During ISO Pulse 5 Level III (up to 60 V, 100 ms), power dissipation rises sharply, triggering thermal shutdown. External TVS or Zener clamping is recommended for sustained >36 V events beyond brief transients.

Is the PENTAWATT horizontal variant pin-compatible with the vertical version?

Yes-both PENTAWATT vertical (VN02H) and horizontal (VN02H(011Y)) share identical pin numbering, electrical characteristics, and thermal performance. The difference is mechanical orientation: vertical has pins aligned in one row for through-hole insertion; horizontal rotates the body 90° with pins offset for surface-mount or staggered PCB layouts. Footprint dimensions differ, but pin 1–5 functions and spacing are preserved.