STMicroelectronics VN16B

Overview

VN16B from STMicroelectronics is a high-side smart power solid-state relay IC designed for automotive ISO-compliant load switching, featuring 20 A continuous output current at Tc = 85 °C, 40 V drain-source breakdown voltage, 0.06 Ω on-state resistance, and integrated open-drain diagnostic output. It drives grounded resistive or inductive loads in engine control units, body electronics, and lighting modules.

For engineers reviewing the VN16B datasheet, VN16B pinout, VN16B application, or VN16B equivalent, key selection criteria include thermal shutdown threshold (140–180 °C), inductive demagnetization clamp (–18 V typical), under-voltage lockout (3.5–6 V), logic-level input compatibility (3.5 V VIH min), and diagnostic delay discrimination (tpovl = 5–10 µs vs. tpol = 50–2500 µs).

Technical Context

The VN16B integrates a VIPower MOSFET with embedded protection circuitry including thermal shutdown, under-voltage detection, and open-load diagnostics. Its internal architecture enables fast inductive demagnetization via –18 V clamp voltage and supports fault discrimination through dual diagnostic timing windows (tpovl for overtemperature, tpol for open-load).

It operates as a single-channel high-side switch with 5 V logic-compatible input, open-drain status output, and reverse-battery protection capability when used with an external Schottky diode. The device complies with ISO 7637-2 transient immunity requirements for automotive applications.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

PENTAWATT package (vertical, horizontal, or in-line variants), thermally optimized for PCB mounting with exposed metal tab for heatsinking. Junction-to-case thermal resistance is 1.5 °C/W max.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with BTS716G and MC33883, the VN16B uniquely combines ISO-defined nominal current compliance, hardware-level fault discrimination via dual STAT delays, and integrated –18 V demagnetization-making it optimal for cost-sensitive, space-constrained automotive modules requiring minimal external components and deterministic diagnostics.

Availability

VN16B is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for engine control units, body control modules, lighting systems, and HVAC subsystems requiring stable component supply across automotive production lifecycles.

Supply support for VN16B 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 solutions with vertical manufacturing capabilities.

The VN16B belongs to ST's VIPower M0-3 family of high-side drivers, engineered specifically for ISO 16750-compliant automotive power distribution with integrated protection and diagnostics.

FAQ

What is the purpose of the dual diagnostic delay times (tpovl and tpol) on the VN16B?

The tpovl (5–10 µs) and tpol (50–2500 µs) delays enable hardware-level fault classification: a short STAT pulse indicates overtemperature, while a longer pulse signals open-load condition. This eliminates need for software-based timing analysis and allows immediate microcontroller response without additional timers or firmware overhead.

Can the VN16B drive inductive loads without external components?

Yes-the VN16B integrates a –18 V demagnetization clamp that safely dissipates inductive energy during turn-off. No external flyback diode is required for basic operation, though a Schottky diode at Pin 1 (GND) is recommended for reverse-battery protection in automotive environments.

How does the VN16B handle undervoltage conditions?

The VN16B features an under-voltage shutdown (VUSD) threshold of 3.5–6 V. When V_CC drops below this range, the output is forcibly disabled and STAT goes high, preventing unpredictable switching during battery cranking or weak-battery scenarios-critical for automotive system stability.

What thermal derating applies when using the VN16B in free-air versus heatsinked conditions?

With R_thj-amb = 60 °C/W max, junction temperature rise exceeds safe limits above ~1.4 A in free air. For 20 A operation, a heatsink maintaining R_thj-amb ≤ 3.5 °C/W is required-achievable via direct mounting to chassis or copper pour with thermal vias, given its R_thj-case = 1.5 °C/W max.