STMicroelectronics VN16BSPTR-E

Overview

VN16BSPTR-E from STMicroelectronics is a high-side smart power solid-state relay IC built on VIPower technology, designed for automotive-grade resistive and inductive load switching with one side grounded. It delivers 20 A continuous output current at Tc = 85°C, features 5 V logic-compatible input, open-drain diagnostic output, thermal shutdown (140–180°C), and -18 V inductive demagnetization voltage - used in engine control modules for solenoid actuation.

For engineers reviewing the VN16BSPTR-E datasheet, VN16BSPTR-E pinout, VN16BSPTR-E application, or VN16BSPTR-E equivalent, key selection criteria include its ISO-compliant high-side switching behavior, diagnostic fault discrimination (open-load vs. overtemperature), low standby power (<50 µA), and PowerSO-10 thermal performance (R_thj-case = 1.5 °C/W).

Technical Context

The VN16BSPTR-E integrates a vertical power MOSFET with embedded protection circuitry including under-voltage lockout (3.5–6 V), thermal shutdown with 15–50 °C hysteresis, and fast inductive demagnetization via internal clamp to -18 V. Its diagnostic output distinguishes open-load faults (tpol = 50–2500 µs) from overtemperature events (tpovl = 5–10 µs) using distinct delay timing.

It operates as a single-channel high-side switch with 0.038–0.06 Ω on-resistance at 13 V supply and 25 °C junction temperature, supporting nominal current of 5.6 A per ISO definition (V_DS(on) ≤ 0.5 V at Tc = 85°C, V_CC = 13 V). Input logic thresholds are VIH ≥ 3.5 V and VIL ≤ 1.5 V, with 0.2–1.5 V hysteresis.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The VN16BSPTR-E is housed in a PowerSO-10 surface-mount package with exposed thermal pad, optimized for high-current automotive applications requiring low R_thj-case and mechanical robustness on FR-4 PCBs.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with STVN7016AJTR and INFINEON BTS716G, the VN16BSPTR-E offers superior inductive load handling via its dedicated -18 V demagnetization clamp and higher 20 A continuous rating, making it optimal for high-energy solenoid actuation where thermal margin and EMI control are primary concerns.

Availability

VN16BSPTR-E is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for engine control units, transmission control modules, body control modules, and electric power steering systems requiring stable component supply across automotive production lifecycles.

Supply support for VN16BSPTR-E 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.

The VN16BSPTR-E belongs to ST's VIPower M0-3 high-side switch product line, engineered specifically for ISO-compliant automotive load driving with integrated diagnostics and thermal resilience.

FAQ

What is the maximum inductive load energy the VN16BSPTR-E can safely demagnetize?

The device clamps inductive turn-off voltage to -14 to -24 V, enabling safe demagnetization of loads up to 1 mH at 20 A with 13 V supply. Energy dissipation is governed by P_dem = 0.5 × L × I² × [(V_CC + V_demag) / V_demag] × f, so maximum safe inductance depends on switching frequency and thermal environment.

How does the diagnostic output distinguish open-load from overtemperature faults?

The STAT pin uses two distinct timing windows: after input deactivation, a low-to-high transition within 5–10 µs (tpovl) indicates overtemperature, while a transition within 50–2500 µs (tpol) signals open-load. This allows firmware to classify faults without additional hardware.

Can the VN16BSPTR-E operate with a 24 V supply?

Yes - V_CC rating is 6–26 V, fully covering 24 V truck and commercial vehicle systems. However, thermal design must account for increased conduction loss at higher voltage, and reverse-battery protection (e.g., Schottky diode on GND) remains mandatory per application note.

Is an external flyback diode required for inductive loads?

No - the integrated -18 V demagnetization clamp eliminates need for external flyback diodes. Adding one would interfere with the internal clamp function and may cause excessive voltage overshoot or latch-up.