STMicroelectronics VN5E160ASTR-E

Overview

VN5E160ASTR-E from STMicroelectronics is a single-channel automotive high-side driver in SO-8 package, designed to switch 12 V grounded resistive/inductive/capacitive loads with integrated diagnostics and protection. It features 160 mΩ typical R_ON, 10 A current limitation, 2 µA standby current, and CMOS-compatible 3 V/5 V input logic.

For engineers reviewing the VN5E160ASTR-E datasheet, VN5E160ASTR-E pinout, VN5E160ASTR-E application, or VN5E160ASTR-E equivalent, key selection criteria include proportional analog current sense accuracy across -40 °C to 150 °C, OFF-state open-load detection, short-to-VCC diagnosis, and thermal shutdown with autorestart for automotive power distribution systems.

Technical Context

This device implements VIPower™ M0-5 technology to integrate power MOSFET, protection circuitry, and analog current sensing in one die. Its architecture enables active power limitation during inrush and overload, real-time load current monitoring via a dedicated CS pin, and fault reporting through voltage-clamped output behavior.

The diagnostic subsystem supports ON/OFF-state open-load detection, short-to-VCC identification, and overtemperature indication-all accessible via analog current sense output. Protection functions include undervoltage shutdown (4.5 V), overvoltage clamp (41 V), reverse-battery tolerance, and self-limiting thermal transients.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: SO-8 (small-outline, surface-mount, 150 mil width), RoHS-compliant ECOPACK®.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with TPS4H160-Q1 and MC33883, VN5E160ASTR-E uniquely combines automotive-grade analog current sensing, reverse-battery tolerance, and thermal autorestart in SO-8-making it optimal for safety-critical lighting and actuator control where continuous load monitoring is required.

Availability

VN5E160ASTR-E is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive lighting control, engine control module actuators, and body control module power distribution requiring stable component supply across extended temperature and lifecycle demands.

Supply support for VN5E160ASTR-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 broad manufacturing and quality certifications including AEC-Q100.

VN5E160ASTR-E belongs to the VIPower™ high-side driver product line, engineered specifically for automotive power distribution networks requiring integrated protection, diagnostics, and low-power operation in harsh environments.

FAQ

What is the maximum continuous output current supported by VN5E160ASTR-E?

The device does not specify a continuous current rating but limits DC output current to 10 A typical under short-circuit conditions via active power limitation. Continuous current capability depends on PCB thermal design and ambient temperature; at 25 °C ambient with 2 cm² copper pour, sustained current is ~4.5 A before thermal shutdown activates. Derating curves in Figure 36 of the datasheet must be applied for precise thermal design.

How does the CS_DIS pin affect diagnostic functionality?

Pulling CS_DIS high disables the analog current sense output, preventing I_SENSE generation and eliminating associated leakage and noise. This allows sharing of a single external sense resistor among multiple VN5E160ASTR-E devices in multi-channel designs. When disabled, all current-related diagnostics-including overload, short-to-ground, and open-load detection-are inactive.

Can VN5E160ASTR-E drive inductive loads like fuel injectors without external flyback protection?

No. While the device includes an internal clamp for V_DEMAG (V_OUT − V_CC ≤ −41 V), this only handles demagnetization energy up to 36 mJ (per datasheet Table 4). Fuel injectors typically require higher energy clamping; external TVS or RC snubbers are mandatory for reliable operation and to prevent premature thermal shutdown during repeated inductive switching.

Is VN5E160ASTR-E compliant with AEC-Q100 qualification standards?

Yes. The VN5E160AS-E variant (identical except for tape-and-reel packaging) is explicitly qualified to AEC-Q100 Grade 1 (−40 °C to +125 °C ambient) and Grade 0 (−40 °C to +150 °C junction) per datasheet Section 2.2. The VN5E160ASTR-E shares the same die and qualification, differing only in packaging format (tape-and-reel vs. tube), and is accepted for automotive production use.