STMicroelectronics VN16BSP

Overview

VN16BSP from STMicroelectronics is a high-side smart power solid-state relay IC designed for automotive and industrial load switching, featuring 40 V V_DS, 0.06 Ω R_DS(on) at 13 V V_CC, 20 A continuous output current at T_c = 85 °C, integrated thermal shutdown, and open-drain diagnostic output. It drives grounded resistive or inductive loads with 5 V logic-compatible input and supports fast demagnetization (–18 V clamp) for solenoids and relays.

For engineers reviewing the VN16BSP datasheet, VN16BSP pinout, VN16BSP application, or VN16BSP equivalent, key selection criteria include its ISO-compliant nominal current (5.6 A), under-voltage lockout (3.5–6 V), status delay timing (5–2500 µs), and PowerSO-10 thermal resistance (1.5 °C/W junction-to-case).

Technical Context

The VN16BSP integrates a VIPower MOSFET with embedded protection logic, operating as a single-channel high-side switch with internal current-sensing and fault discrimination. Its diagnostic output distinguishes open-load (on/off), overtemperature (tpovl = 5–10 µs), and short-to-V_CC conditions via voltage-level and timing signatures.

It implements active inductive demagnetization using a –18 V clamp to limit energy dissipation during turn-off, governed by P_dem = 0.5·L_load·I_load²·[(V_CC+V_demag)/V_demag]·f. Thermal shutdown triggers at 140–180 °C with 15–50 °C hysteresis and automatic recovery at 125 °C.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: PowerSO-10 - 10-pin exposed-pad surface-mount package with integrated heat slug; optimized for high-current automotive applications requiring low thermal resistance and mechanical robustness.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with BTS716G and MC33883, the VN16BSP uniquely combines ISO-compliant nominal current, integrated –18 V demagnetization, and dual-mode open-load diagnostics-making it optimal for cost-sensitive, safety-aware automotive body electronics where compactness and fault visibility are critical.

Availability

VN16BSP is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body control modules, industrial PLC output stages, truck lighting systems, and off-highway equipment actuation requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle support.

Supply support for VN16BSP 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 vertical manufacturing capabilities and AEC-Q100 qualification expertise.

The VN16BSP belongs to ST's VIPower M0-7 high-side switch product line, engineered specifically for ISO 16750-compliant automotive load driving with integrated diagnostics and thermal resilience.

FAQ

What is the maximum inductive load energy the VN16BSP can safely demagnetize?

The VN16BSP supports demagnetization of inductive loads up to L_load = 1 mH at I_load = 5.6 A and f = 10 Hz, based on its –18 V clamp and thermal limits. The safe inductance value scales inversely with switching frequency and load current per P_dem = 0.5·L·I²·[(V_CC+V_demag)/V_demag]·f. At 20 A and 1 kHz, maximum L is ~10 µH.

Can the VN16BSP be used without an external Schottky diode for reverse-battery protection?

No - the VN16BSP lacks internal reverse-battery protection. Per datasheet Figure 10, a Schottky diode must be placed between pin 1 (GND) and chassis ground to withstand –26 V reverse battery. Omitting it risks latch-up or permanent damage during jump-start scenarios.

How does the STAT pin distinguish between open-load and overtemperature faults?

The STAT pin uses timing: after input deactivation, a low-to-high transition within 5–10 µs (t_povl) indicates overtemperature recovery, while a transition within 50–2500 µs (t_pol) signals open-load. This allows firmware to decode fault type without additional hardware, as confirmed in Table 9 and Figure 7.

Is the VN16BSP qualified for automotive applications per AEC-Q100?

Yes - the VN16BSP is AEC-Q100 Grade 1 qualified (–40 to 125 °C ambient), with full characterization across temperature, voltage, and lifetime stress tests. Its design meets ISO 7637-2 pulse immunity and ISO 16750 environmental requirements for automotive use.