STMicroelectronics VN920B5TR-E

Overview

VN920B5TR-E from STMicroelectronics is a single-channel automotive-grade high-side solid state relay (HSR) in VIPower™ M0-3 technology, designed to drive ground-referenced loads up to 30 A with 16 mΩ R_DS(on) at 25 °C. It integrates proportional current sense (K ≈ 4400), thermal shutdown (150–200 °C), undervoltage/overvoltage protection (4–5.5 V / 36 V), and active VCC clamp (41–55 V). Used in body control modules for headlamp, fog lamp, and HVAC blower switching.

For engineers reviewing the VN920B5TR-E datasheet, VN920B5TR-E pinout, VN920B5TR-E application, or VN920B5TR-E equivalent, key selection criteria include load current capability (30 A continuous), CMOS-compatible input logic (VIH = 3.25 V), analog current sense accuracy (±8% drift over temperature), and ISO7637-2 transient immunity (Pulse 1/2/3a/3b/4/5).

Technical Context

The device implements a monolithic high-side switch with integrated diagnostics: real-time current sensing via proportional I_SENSE output, thermal shutdown with 15 °C hysteresis (T_R = 135 °C), and autonomous overcurrent limiting (I_LIM = 30–75 A depending on V_CC and T_case). Protection logic includes GND-disconnection detection, reverse-battery tolerance via external RGND/DGND networks, and active V_CC clamping during load dump.

Its switching behavior is characterized by 50 µs turn-on/turn-off delay (V_CC = 13 V, R_L = 1.3 Ω), controlled dV_OUT/dt slopes (on/off), and output voltage drop limitation (50 mV at 1 A). The current sense path features 500 µs signal delay and supports external R_SENSE (e.g., 3.9 kΩ) to generate 0–5.5 V diagnostic voltage under overtemperature.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

P2PAK package: thermally enhanced surface-mount power package with exposed drain pad for PCB copper heatsinking; 5-pin configuration (Input, Output, V_CC, GND, Current Sense); RoHS-compliant ECOPACK® finish.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with VN920B5TR-E, STVN920B5-E offers identical performance in tube format but lacks tape-and-reel convenience for automated assembly; NCV8460A reduces system cost but sacrifices built-in current sensing and thermal diagnostics, increasing design complexity for safety-critical automotive functions.

Availability

VN920B5TR-E is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body control modules, lighting systems, and HVAC subsystems requiring stable component supply, AEC-Q100 compliance, and long-term production continuity.

Supply support for VN920B5TR-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 vertical manufacturing and AEC-Q100 validation infrastructure.

The VN920 series belongs to ST's VIPower™ high-side driver product line, engineered specifically for automotive power distribution and load control with integrated protection, diagnostics, and robustness against harsh electrical environments.

FAQ

What is the maximum continuous output current rating for VN920B5TR-E?

The VN920B5TR-E is rated for 30 A DC continuous output current under specified thermal conditions (T_c ≤ 25 °C, P2PAK mounted on ≥6 cm² copper). Derating applies above 25 °C case temperature per the ILIM vs T_case curve (Figure 13), reaching ~45 A at 13 V V_CC and 100 °C case.

How does the current sense function work, and what external components are required?

The current sense pin sinks a proportional current (I_SENSE = I_OUT/K, K ≈ 4400) that must be converted to voltage using an external pull-up resistor (e.g., 3.9 kΩ to V_CC). This generates 0–5.5 V diagnostic output, with 500 µs delay and ±8% full-temperature drift. No op-amp or ADC reference is needed beyond standard MCU analog input.

Does VN920B5TR-E require external protection components for ISO7637-2 load dump?

No external TVS is required for ISO7637-2 Pulse 5 (load dump) due to the integrated V_CC clamp diode (41–55 V, 20 mA). However, a transient suppressor (D_ld) is recommended if peak transients exceed 36 V DC rating or if system-level testing reveals marginal margin under combined stress conditions.

Can VN920B5TR-E drive inductive loads, and how is demagnetization energy handled?

Yes, it drives inductive loads with built-in demagnetization clamp (V_demag = V_CC − 41 to V_CC − 55 V). For a 6 mH inductor at 2 A, Figure 20 confirms safe turn-off energy dissipation. External freewheeling diodes are unnecessary, but PCB copper area must meet thermal requirements (≥6 cm² for 96.1 W P_tot).