STMicroelectronics VN5E160S-E

Overview

VN5E160S-E from STMicroelectronics is a single-channel automotive high-side driver in SO-8 package, designed to switch grounded resistive/inductive/capacitive loads with integrated diagnostics and protection. It features 160 mΩ on-state resistance (R_ON), 10 A current limitation (I_LIMH), 4.5–28 V operating supply range, and CMOS-compatible 3.0 V input logic - enabling direct interfacing with automotive microcontrollers in body control modules.

For engineers reviewing the VN5E160S-E datasheet, VN5E160S-E pinout, VN5E160S-E application, or VN5E160S-E equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical specs, diagnostic behavior under open-load/short-circuit conditions, thermal shutdown timing (t_SDL = 20 µs), and SO-8 PCB thermal data for layout validation and functional safety compliance (ISO 26262 ASIL-B support).

Technical Context

The VN5E160S-E implements VIPower M0-5 technology with active power limitation for inrush and overload management, enabling stable current delivery without external current-sense circuitry. Its diagnostic architecture includes dedicated open-drain STATUS output with ON/OFF-state open-load detection, short-to-V_CC indication, and thermal shutdown feedback - all synchronized to internal fault detection thresholds.

Protection functions are hardware-automated: undervoltage shutdown triggers at V_USD = 4.5 V (0.5 V hysteresis), overvoltage clamp activates above 41 V, and self-limiting thermal transients prevent latch-up during fast junction temperature rise. Reverse battery protection requires external GND-line diode/resistor network per Figure 32.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: SO-8 (small-outline, 150 mil width), RoHS-compliant ECOPACK®. Thermal resistance R_thj-amb varies with PCB copper area (see Figure 36); R_thj-pins = 30 °C/W.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with TPS4H160Q1 and IPS1031H, the VN5E160S-E uniquely combines SO-8 footprint, full diagnostic coverage (including OFF-state open-load), and explicit reverse-battery implementation guidance - making it optimal for cost-sensitive, safety-aware BCM designs requiring traceable fault reporting.

Availability

VN5E160S-E is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body control modules, seat motor systems, LED headlamp drivers, and engine cooling fan controllers requiring stable component supply across extended temperature and transient-voltage conditions.

Supply support for VN5E160S-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 AEC-Q100 qualification and ISO/TS 16949 manufacturing certification.

The VN5E160S-E belongs to ST's VIPower™ high-side driver family, engineered specifically for ASIL-B-compliant automotive power distribution - emphasizing diagnostic completeness, thermal resilience, and electromagnetic robustness in harsh vehicle environments.

FAQ

What is the maximum safe operating temperature for VN5E160S-E?

The VN5E160S-E has a junction operating temperature range of –40°C to +150°C. Thermal shutdown activates at T_j = 150°C (TTSD), with auto-restart occurring at T_R = 135°C. Continuous operation above 150°C is prohibited; PCB layout must maintain R_thj-amb ≤ 45°C/W for 10 A loads per Figure 36.

How does the STATUS pin behave during open-load detection in OFF state?

When INPUT = LOW and OUTPUT is disconnected (open-load), STATUS goes HIGH after delay t_POL = 200–1200 µs (Table 9). This occurs because V_OUT rises above V_OL = 2–4 V, triggering internal comparator - distinct from ON-state detection which monitors current below I_OL = 10–40 mA.

Can VN5E160S-E drive inductive loads without external flyback diodes?

No. The device integrates an internal clamp for overvoltage (V_clamp = 41–52 V), but external freewheeling diodes are required for inductive loads to handle demagnetization energy. Maximum safe E_MAX = 36 mJ (L = 8 mH, V_bat = 13.5 V); exceeding this risks latch-up or permanent damage.

Is reverse battery protection built-in or external?

Reverse battery protection is partially internal: the device withstands –0.3 V on V_CC, but full protection against –12 V reverse polarity requires external GND-line components - either a series diode (DGND) or resistor (R_GND) as shown in Figure 32. ST provides two validated topologies with performance trade-offs.