STMicroelectronics VN02N(012Y)

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 Tc = 25°C, features 5 V logic-compatible input, integrated thermal and under-voltage shutdown, open-drain diagnostic output, and 0.4 Ω typical RDS(on) at 3 A and 25°C.

For engineers reviewing the VN02N datasheet, VN02N pinout, VN02N application, or VN02N equivalent, this device is selected for robust load switching where diagnostics, fault reporting, and protection against short-circuit, over-temperature, and open-load conditions are required in 12–26 V supply environments.

Technical Context

The VN02N integrates a VIPower high-side MOSFET switch with embedded protection circuitry including thermal shutdown (trip at 140°C, reset at 125°C), under-voltage lockout (6.5 V threshold), and open-load detection. Its diagnostic output reports status via voltage level transitions per truth table logic.

It operates with 7–26 V supply (VCC), accepts 0.8–2 V logic-level inputs (VIH/VIL), and provides fast switching (td(on)/td(off) ≤ 15 µs) with controlled dI/dt (0.5–4 A/µs). The internal current sense and thermal sensor enable real-time fault response without external components.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

PENTAWATT package: 5-pin, single-in-line (SIP), through-hole, ECOPACK® lead-free, with exposed metal tab for thermal dissipation (R_thj-case = 4.35 °C/W).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with IPS1021H and TPS27082L, the VN02N uniquely combines 6 A capability, open-load + thermal diagnostics, and automotive-grade protection in a thermally optimized PENTAWATT package-making it optimal for cost-sensitive, high-reliability 12–24 V load switching where field serviceability and fault traceability matter.

Availability

VN02N is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive lighting control, industrial solenoid drivers, and off-highway equipment motor starters requiring stable component supply, long-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, delivering innovative silicon solutions across automotive, industrial, and power management markets.

The VN02N belongs to ST's VIPower M0-3 high-side switch product line, engineered specifically for robust, protected load control in harsh 12–24 V environments-emphasizing reliability, integrated diagnostics, and simplified system design.

FAQ

What is the maximum junction temperature and thermal shutdown behavior of the VN02N?

The VN02N trips thermal shutdown at 140°C junction temperature and automatically resets when junction temperature falls to approximately 125°C. This 15°C hysteresis prevents oscillation during recovery. The device uses on-die thermal sensing located near the power MOSFET for rapid response, with typical turn-off time under short-circuit conditions of 1.5–5 ms depending on case temperature.

Can the VN02N drive inductive loads without external flyback protection?

No-the VN02N does not integrate internal flyback clamping. When driving inductive loads (e.g., solenoids, relays), an external freewheeling diode must be placed across the load with cathode to VOUT and anode to GND. ST recommends using a Schottky diode rated for ≥6 A peak forward current and ≥60 V reverse voltage to minimize voltage overshoot and ensure reliable operation.

How does the STATUS pin indicate open-load versus over-temperature conditions?

The STATUS pin is open-drain and pulled high externally. It goes low during over-temperature or under-voltage conditions, and floats high (open-circuit) during open-load detection. Per Table 8, open-load is indicated by STATUS = high while INPUT = high and output is enabled; over-temperature is indicated by STATUS = low while INPUT = high and output is disabled. Timing resolution requires ≥100 µs delay after switching edge for valid status sampling.

Is the VN02N qualified for automotive applications per AEC-Q100?

The VN02N is not explicitly AEC-Q100 qualified per its official datasheet and ST product documentation. While it meets key automotive environmental requirements-including operation from −40°C to +150°C junction temperature, reverse-battery tolerance (with external Schottky), and ISO 7637-2 pulse immunity support-it lacks formal AEC-Q100 stress test certification. For AEC-Q100–mandated designs, ST recommends alternatives such as the AEC-Q100–qualified VNQ5E050AJ.