STMicroelectronics VN02N

Overview

VN02N from STMicroelectronics is a high-side smart power solid-state relay IC designed for driving grounded resistive or inductive loads in automotive and industrial control systems. It delivers 6 A continuous output current at T_c = 25°C, features 5 V logic-compatible input, integrated thermal and under-voltage shutdown, open-drain diagnostic output, and 0.4 Ω typical R_DS(on) at 3 A and 25°C.

For engineers reviewing the VN02N datasheet, VN02N pinout, VN02N application, or VN02N equivalent, key selection considerations include its PENTAWATT package thermal resistance (R_thj-case = 4.35 °C/W), diagnostic status timing (>100 µs after switching edge), short-circuit response (<5 ms), and 60 V V_(BR)DSS capability for robust load switching.

Technical Context

The VN02N integrates a VIPower high-side MOSFET switch with on-die protection circuitry including thermal sensing at the die hotspot, undervoltage lockout (6.5 V threshold), and open-load detection via status pin voltage interpretation. Its internal logic interprets load condition and junction temperature to drive the open-drain STATUS output.

Switching behavior is characterized by 10 µs turn-on delay, 6 µs fall time, and controlled dV_OUT/dt slopes (0.5–4 A/µs), enabling predictable EMI management. Protection activation-thermal shutdown at 140°C and reset at 125°C-is fully autonomous without external intervention.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The VN02N is housed in a PENTAWATT (5-pin, single-in-line) package with exposed metal tab for thermal conduction and mechanical mounting. The package complies with ECOPACK® lead-free standards and JEDEC JESD97 marking requirements.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with BTS4140N and MC33883, the VN02N offers the most balanced integration of diagnostic completeness (open-load + over-temp + UVLO), fast digital switching, and thermal robustness in a cost-optimized PENTAWATT package-ideal for deterministic fault reporting in automotive body electronics.

Availability

VN02N is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body control modules, industrial PLC output stages, smart fuse replacements, and heating element drivers requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and traceable sourcing.

Supply support for VN02N 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 silicon solutions for automotive, industrial, and consumer markets since 1987.

The VN02N belongs to ST's VIPower M0-3 high-side driver family, engineered specifically for robust, diagnostic-rich load switching in harsh automotive environments with minimal external components.

FAQ

What is the maximum safe operating temperature for the VN02N junction?

The VN02N junction operates safely from –40°C to +150°C. Thermal shutdown activates at 140°C to prevent damage, and the device automatically recovers when junction temperature falls to approximately 125°C. Continuous operation above 125°C requires active heatsinking due to derating curves showing 6 A output limited to T_c ≤ 25°C.

Can the STATUS pin be directly interfaced with a 3.3 V microcontroller GPIO?

Yes-the STATUS pin is open-drain with ±0.7 V / 6 V clamp limits, allowing safe interface to 3.3 V logic when pulled up to 3.3 V via an external resistor (typically 4.7–10 kΩ). No level-shifter is needed, and the pin sinks ≥1.6 mA when active low, ensuring reliable logic-low detection.

Does the VN02N require an external flyback diode for inductive loads?

No-internal clamp circuitry handles inductive kickback during turn-off. However, ST recommends adding an external Schottky diode between GND and chassis ground (Figure 12) for reverse-battery protection in automotive applications, especially when the control unit references power ground rather than signal ground.

How does the VN02N distinguish between open-load and over-temperature faults on the STATUS pin?

The STATUS pin goes low for both open-load and over-temperature conditions, but timing differentiates them: open-load detection asserts within 100 µs of turn-on, while over-temperature response occurs only after sustained thermal buildup (≥140°C). System firmware must correlate STATUS state with INPUT command timing and thermal history to isolate root cause.