STMicroelectronics VN5E160ASOTR-E

Overview

VN5E160ASOTR-E from STMicroelectronics is a single-channel automotive high-side driver IC using VIPower® M0-5 technology, designed to switch 12 V grounded resistive/inductive/capacitive loads with integrated analog current sensing, diagnostics, and protection. It features 160 mΩ typical R_ON, 10 A current limit, 4.5–28 V operating supply range, and AEC-Q100 qualification for under-hood applications.

For engineers reviewing the VN5E160ASOTR-E datasheet, VN5E160ASOTR-E pinout, VN5E160ASOTR-E application, or VN5E160ASOTR-E equivalent, key selection criteria include its CMOS-compatible 3.0 V input interface, proportional current sense accuracy across -40°C to 150°C, thermal shutdown with autorestart, reverse-battery protection support, and SO-16L package suitability for space-constrained automotive PCBs.

Technical Context

The device implements a power MOSFET output stage with active power limitation for inrush and overload management, combined with an analog current sense amplifier delivering I_OUT/I_SENSE ratios from 265 to 715 (depending on load and temperature). Its diagnostic architecture supports ON/OFF-state open-load detection, short-to-V_CC identification, and overtemperature indication via dedicated status signaling.

Protection logic includes undervoltage shutdown (V_USD = 4.5 V), overvoltage clamp (up to 52 V), self-limiting fast thermal transients, and loss-of-ground/V_CC detection - all implemented without external components. The CS_DIS pin enables hardware-level disabling of current sense functionality to share external sense resistors across multiple channels.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Delivered in SO-16L (16-pin small outline, exposed pad) package optimized for thermal dissipation in automotive environments. The exposed thermal pad must be soldered to PCB copper for effective junction-to-ambient heat transfer (R_thj-pcb = 18.5°C/W).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with TPS4H160Q1PWPRQ1 and IPS160H, VN5E160ASOTR-E uniquely balances analog current sensing fidelity, thermal autorestart behavior, and SO-16L thermal performance - making it optimal for cost-sensitive, space-constrained automotive body electronics where analog feedback and minimal external components are critical.

Availability

VN5E160ASOTR-E is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive lighting control, engine management actuators, body control module loads, and ADAS sensor power distribution requiring stable component supply across extended temperature and voltage ranges.

Supply support for VN5E160ASOTR-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-grade power ICs, microcontrollers, and sensors with vertical manufacturing capability.

VN5E160ASOTR-E belongs to ST's VIPower® high-side driver family, engineered specifically for automotive load switching with integrated protection and diagnostics - targeting under-hood and body electronics where reliability, thermal resilience, and functional safety are mandatory.

FAQ

What is the maximum continuous output current rating for VN5E160ASOTR-E?

The device does not specify a continuous current rating independent of thermal conditions. Its 10 A current limit (I_LIMH) is a short-circuit protection threshold. Continuous current capability depends on PCB copper area, ambient temperature, and airflow - with 3.5 A achievable at 25°C ambient using a 2-layer board with 18.5°C/W junction-to-PCB thermal resistance.

How does the CS_DIS pin affect current sense accuracy and timing?

Pulling CS_DIS high disables the internal current sense amplifier, eliminating I_SENSE output and associated leakage (≤2 µA). Response delay changes from t_DSENSE2H = 30–160 µs (with CS enabled) to immediate disable within 100 µs after CS_DIS assertion, verified per Figure 4 and Table 9 timing parameters.

Can VN5E160ASOTR-E drive inductive loads without external flyback diodes?

No. While the device includes an internal clamp for V_DEMAG (V_CC − 46 V), this is insufficient for sustained inductive energy dissipation. External freewheeling diodes or RC snubbers are required per Section 3.5 and Figure 34 to handle demagnetization energy up to 36 mJ safely.

Is the SO-16L package RoHS and REACH compliant?

Yes. The VN5E160ASOTR-E carries ST's ECOPACK®2 designation (Table 5), confirming compliance with EU Directive 2002/95/EC (RoHS) and REACH SVHC regulations, with lead-free matte tin termination and halogen-free molding compound.