STMicroelectronics VN380SP13TR

Overview

VN380SP13TR from STMicroelectronics is a monolithic smart solenoid driver and solid-state relay built with VIPower™ technology, designed to control inductive loads such as automotive valves, fuel injectors, and industrial actuators. It delivers up to 7 A load current, features 0.11 Ω on-resistance (Ron), integrated thermal shutdown, open-coil detection, and diagnostic output signaling demagnetization or fault states.

For engineers reviewing the VN380SP13TR datasheet, VN380SP13TR pinout, VN380SP13TR application, or VN380SP13TR equivalent, this device supports high-reliability DC solenoid switching with real-time diagnostics, overvoltage/overcurrent protection, and dual-path recirculation-critical for automotive body control modules and industrial PLC output stages.

Technical Context

The VN380SP13TR integrates two power switches (S1 excitation path, S2 recirculation path) controlled by CMOS-compatible inputs (A/B), enabling three operational modes: excitation (S1 on), recirculation (S2 on), and fast demagnetization (both off with clamping). Its internal logic implements latched fault responses-including current cutoff at 15–30 A and thermal shutdown at 160–200 °C-without external supervision.

Protection functions are tightly coupled: overvoltage detection (27 V threshold) disables S1 and activates S2; open-load detection triggers diagnostic flag on input B's falling edge when load current falls below 5–700 mA; and flyback voltage clamping (Vcl1 = 60–80 V, Vcl2 = 24–33 V) ensures safe inductive energy dissipation during turn-off.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: PowerSO-10 - surface-mount, thermally enhanced 10-pin package with exposed die pad for low R_thj-case (1.67 °C/W max), optimized for high-power solenoid drive in space-constrained automotive and industrial modules.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar smart solenoid driver applications.

Compared with VN380SP13TR, STVN380SPTR-E offers identical performance in automated production, while BTS716G sacrifices integrated diagnostics and dual-path control to reduce unit cost - making it viable only where system-level fault monitoring is handled externally.

Availability

VN380SP13TR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body control modules, industrial PLC output stages, off-highway equipment actuators, and truck cab control systems requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.

Supply support for VN380SP13TR 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, designing and manufacturing analog, power, microcontroller, and sensor solutions for automotive, industrial, and consumer markets.

The VN380SP belongs to ST's VIPower™ smart power IC family, engineered specifically for high-current, high-reliability solenoid and relay replacement in harsh-environment applications demanding integrated protection and diagnostics.

FAQ

What is the maximum continuous load current supported by VN380SP13TR?

The VN380SP13TR supports up to 7 A continuous load current under specified thermal conditions (T_j ≤ 150 °C, R_thj-case ≤ 1.67 °C/W). At 5 A, its typical on-resistance is 0.2 Ω, yielding ≤5 W conduction loss. Derating is required above 100 °C ambient or with insufficient PCB copper area.

How does the diagnostic output (DIAG) indicate open-coil faults?

The DIAG pin asserts low on the falling edge of INPUT B when load current drops below the open-load threshold (5–700 mA). The fault remains latched until INPUT A transitions low then high again. This behavior is confirmed in Figure 5 waveforms and Section 3.2 of the datasheet.

Can VN380SP13TR drive 24 V solenoids with load dump protection?

Yes - its overvoltage detection threshold is 27 V, and internal clamps (Vcl1 = 60–80 V, Vcl2 = 24–33 V) absorb energy up to 100 mJ. When combined with proper PCB layout (wide traces, ground plane), it meets ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a requirements for 24 V automotive systems without external TVS diodes.

What is the purpose of the dual Vpwr1 and Vpwr2 supply pins?

Vpwr1 powers the excitation path (S1) and internal logic; Vpwr2 powers the recirculation path (S2). Separating them allows independent control of energy recovery - e.g., using a lower Vpwr2 to limit recirculation current or connecting Vpwr2 to battery ground for faster decay. Both accept 6–24 V.