STMicroelectronics VN31SP13TR

Overview

VN31SP13TR from STMicroelectronics is a high-side smart power solid-state relay based on VIPower M0-3 technology, designed for automotive-grade load switching with one side grounded. It delivers 31 A continuous output current at Tc = 85 °C, features 60 V V(BR)DSS, 0.03 Ω RDS(on) at 11.5 A, integrated thermal shutdown, open-drain diagnostic output, and −18 V inductive demagnetization clamp - deployed in body control modules for headlight and fan drivers.

For engineers reviewing the VN31SP13TR datasheet, VN31SP13TR pinout, VN31SP13TR application, or VN31SP13TR equivalent, this page provides verified functional context, ISO-compliant protection behavior, real-world switching timing (td(off) = 140 µs), diagnostic filtering logic (t1(on)/t1(off) = 1–10 ms), and validated automotive load-dump immunity per ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5 Level II.

Technical Context

The VN31SP13TR integrates a vertical Power MOSFET with embedded protection circuitry including overtemperature sensing (TSD = 140 °C, reset = 125 °C), under-voltage lockout (VUSD = 5 V), short-circuit current limiting (IOV = 140 A), and open-load detection via status pin with 5 ms filtering. Its logic-compatible input accepts 2 V VIH and 0.8 V VIL with 0.5 V hysteresis.

It implements fast inductive demagnetization using an internal clamp that generates −18 V (typ.) across the load at turn-off, reducing dissipation by controlling energy recovery rate (di/dt)off = 0.2–3 A/µs. The open-drain diagnostic output signals open load (off/on state), output short to VCC, and overtemperature - each with distinct delay profiles (tpovl = 5–10 µs, tpol = 50–700 µs).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Delivered in PowerSO-10™ package (10-pin exposed-pad surface-mount), optimized for thermal performance with Rthj-case = 1.2 °C/W when mounted on FR-4 board using minimum recommended copper pad area.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with STVN32SP13TR and BTS716G, VN31SP13TR offers the lowest RDS(on) among ST's PowerSO-10 high-side switches and uniquely integrates −18 V active demagnetization - delivering superior thermal efficiency and reduced external component count for demanding inductive applications.

Availability

VN31SP13TR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body electronics, industrial motor controls, and commercial vehicle lighting systems requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and AEC-Q100-compliant sourcing.

Supply support for VN31SP13TR 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 vertically integrated manufacturing and AEC-Q100 qualified processes.

VN31SP13TR belongs to ST's VIPower® M0-3 high-side switch family, engineered specifically for ISO 16750-2/7637-2-compliant automotive load driving with integrated diagnostics, protection, and thermal resilience.

FAQ

What is the maximum inductive load energy the VN31SP13TR can safely demagnetize?

The device supports fast demagnetization of inductive loads up to L × I² ≤ 1.2 mJ (calculated from Vdemag = −18 V, di/dt(off) = 0.2–3 A/µs, and thermal limits). For example, a 1 mH solenoid carrying 11.5 A produces ~66 mJ stored energy - safely handled due to −18 V clamp reducing dissipation by factor of ~3 versus passive diode recovery. Actual limit depends on ambient temperature and PCB copper area.

Does the VN31SP13TR require an external flyback diode for inductive loads?

No. The integrated −18 V demagnetization clamp eliminates the need for an external flyback diode in most automotive applications. This reduces component count, PCB space, and potential failure points. External diodes may still be used for enhanced EMI suppression or in cases exceeding the device's specified Vdemag range, but are not required for basic functionality or protection.

How does the open-load detection behave during PWM operation?

The open-load filter (t1(on)/t1(off) = 1–10 ms) requires the load to be disconnected for ≥5 ms to assert STAT low. During typical PWM dimming (e.g., 100 Hz, 10 ms period), brief off-times do not trigger false open-load alarms. However, sustained off-states longer than 10 ms will activate diagnosis - making it suitable for duty-cycle-controlled lamps but not for rapidly pulsed solenoids unless filtered externally.

Can the VN31SP13TR be used in 24 V commercial vehicle systems?

Yes - its VCC range (5.5–26 V) and 60 V V(BR)DSS rating support 24 V nominal systems. It withstands load-dump transients up to 46.5 V (ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5 Level II) without external components. For Level III (60 V), ST recommends adding series resistance and bulk capacitance per application note AN4709, but VN31SP13TR remains functional and protected within spec under standard 24 V truck/bus conditions.