STMicroelectronics VN7004CLH

Overview

VN7004CLH from STMicroelectronics is a single-channel automotive-grade smart high-side driver with analog CurrentSense feedback, designed for 12 V grounded loads. It features 4 mΩ typical on-state resistance, 135 A current limitation, 4–28 V operating supply range, and AEC-Q100 qualification-enabling robust control of glow plugs, heating systems, and DC motors in harsh vehicle environments.

For engineers reviewing the VN7004CLH datasheet, VN7004CLH pinout, VN7004CLH application, or VN7004CLH equivalent, key selection criteria include its integrated open-load/short-to-VCC diagnostics, configurable latch-off on overtemperature, reverse-battery protection, and CMOS-compatible 3 V/5 V input interface-critical for automotive power distribution and actuator control design.

Technical Context

The VN7004CLH implements VIPower® technology to integrate power MOSFET, protection logic, and analog current sensing in one die. Its diagnostic architecture uses combined INPUT and FR_DIAG pin states to enable OFF-state open-load detection and latch control, while the CS pin delivers a proportional current (K₀ = 9–24.5 kA/A) for real-time load monitoring.

Protection functions operate autonomously: undervoltage shutdown triggers at 4 V with 0.3 V hysteresis; thermal shutdown activates at 150–200 °C with 7 K hysteresis; and power limitation dynamically limits ILIMH to 135 A (typ) under overload-without external components or MCU intervention.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The VN7004CLH is housed in the Octapak package-a thermally enhanced, surface-mount power package with exposed metal top for direct heatsinking and optimized PCB copper area coupling.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with BTS7004-1EPP and MC33883, the VN7004CLH uniquely combines ultra-low R_ON, high-current capability, and true analog current-proportional output-making it optimal for applications requiring both precision current control and functional safety diagnostics without added signal conditioning.

Availability

VN7004CLH is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive power distribution, glow plug control, and heating system actuation requiring stable component supply across extended temperature and lifecycle demands.

Supply support for VN7004CLH 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 vertical manufacturing and AEC-Q100-aligned quality systems.

The VN7004CLH belongs to ST's VIPower® M0-7 family of smart power switches-designed specifically for automotive body electronics and chassis systems demanding high reliability, integrated protection, and diagnostic transparency.

FAQ

What is the purpose of the FR_DIAG pin?

The FR_DIAG pin configures fault response behavior: when held high, it enables auto-restart after transient faults; when pulled low, it latches the output off until reset. It also enables OFF-state open-load detection by interacting with the INPUT pin state-providing critical safety diagnostics without extra components.

How does the CurrentSense (CS) pin function in practice?

The CS pin outputs a current ISENSE = IOUT / K₀, where K₀ ranges from 9,000 to 24,500 A/A depending on temperature and load. This proportional current can be converted to voltage via a simple external resistor (e.g., 100 Ω → 0.1–2.45 V range), enabling real-time current monitoring, closed-loop control, or overcurrent threshold detection in the MCU.

Can VN7004CLH drive inductive loads like solenoids or motors?

Yes-the device integrates active demagnetization clamp (VDEMAG = VCC − 38 to −52 V) and handles inductive turn-off energy up to 105 mJ per pulse. Its controlled dV/dt (0.075–0.7 V/µs) suppresses EMI, and built-in loss-of-ground detection ensures safe operation even if GND connection degrades during motor stall conditions.

Is external heatsinking required for continuous 15 A operation?

At 15 A and 25°C ambient, power dissipation is ~0.9 W (15² × 0.004 Ω). With the Octapak package's R_thj-amb = 15.6 °C/W on a 4-layer PCB, junction rise is ~14 °C-well within the 150 °C limit. No external heatsink is needed for this condition, though thermal relief copper (>2 cm²) is recommended for higher ambient or pulsed loads.