STMicroelectronics VN920SP

Overview

VN920SP from STMicroelectronics is a single-channel high-side solid-state relay (HSD) designed for automotive and industrial load switching with ground-referenced loads. It features 15 mΩ R_DS(on), 30 A continuous output current, 36 V maximum V_CC, CMOS-compatible input logic, and integrated proportional current sense (K ≈ 4400 A/A). It is used in body control modules, lighting drivers, and solenoid control where short-circuit, over-temperature, and reverse-battery protection are critical.

For engineers reviewing the VN920SP datasheet, VN920SP pinout, VN920SP application, or VN920SP equivalent, key selection considerations include its active current limitation (30–75 A), thermal shutdown at 150–200 °C, analog current sense accuracy (±8% drift over temperature), and PowerSO-10 package thermal resistance (1.3 °C/W junction-to-case).

Technical Context

The VN920SP integrates VIPower M0-3 technology to combine power MOSFET switching with intelligent protection circuitry. Its architecture includes an active V_CC clamp (41–55 V), under-voltage lockout (4 V typ), over-voltage shutdown (36 V), and loss-of-ground detection that forces automatic turn-off. The device delivers a proportional analog I_SENSE current (I_OUT/I_SENSE = 4400 typ) referenced to V_SENSE = 0 V.

Switching behavior is controlled by TTL/CMOS-compatible input thresholds (V_IL = 1.25 V, V_IH = 3.25 V, hysteresis = 0.5 V), with turn-on/turn-off delays of 50 µs (typ) at V_CC = 13 V. Protection coordination relies on simultaneous monitoring of die temperature, output voltage, and load current - enabling diagnostic flagging via sense output collapse during over-temperature or over-voltage events.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The VN920SP is housed in a PowerSO-10 package - a surface-mount, thermally enhanced 10-pin leadframe package with exposed die pad for low thermal resistance (R_thj-case = 1.3 °C/W). It features gull-wing leads and is RoHS-compliant (ECOPACK®).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with VN920SP, STVN8008B trades current capability and integrated clamp for cost reduction, while BTS724G shifts diagnostic methodology from analog sense collapse to digital register reads - making VN920SP optimal for analog-feedback, high-reliability, cost-sensitive 30 A switching.

Availability

VN920SP is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body control modules, industrial solenoid drivers, and commercial vehicle lighting systems requiring stable component supply across extended temperature and transient environments.

Supply support for VN920SP 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, specializing in automotive, industrial, and power management ICs with vertical manufacturing and AEC-Q100 qualification expertise.

The VN920SP belongs to ST's VIPower high-side driver family, engineered specifically for robust, protected switching of ground-referenced resistive and inductive loads in automotive and harsh industrial environments.

FAQ

What is the recommended PCB layout for thermal performance?

Mount the VN920SP on FR4 with ≥6 cm² of 35 µm copper connected to the exposed PowerSO-10 die pad. This achieves R_thj-amb = 37 °C/W, enabling full 30 A operation at T_c ≤ 150 °C. Avoid thermal vias under the pad unless filled and capped - use solid copper pour instead per ST AN4630 guidelines.

How does the current sense output behave during over-temperature shutdown?

During thermal shutdown (T_j ≥ TTSD), the current sense output collapses to V_SENSEH = 5.5 V (with R_SENSE = 3.9 kΩ), providing a clear analog flag to the MCU. This is distinct from normal operation (I_SENSE ∝ I_OUT) and from over-voltage or under-voltage conditions, which pull I_SENSE to 0 A.

Can VN920SP drive inductive loads without external flyback components?

Yes - the integrated V_demag clamp limits turn-off voltage to V_CC − 48 V (min), safely absorbing energy from inductive loads up to 6 mH at 2 A. For larger inductances or higher currents, ST recommends verifying demagnetization energy (EMAX = 362 mJ) against actual L·I²/2 values per Section 3.4.

Is VN920SP still in active production despite "Obsolete Product(s)" header in datasheet?

Yes - the "Obsolete Product(s)" banner applies only to earlier revisions (Rev 1–3); Rev 4 (2013) remains the latest qualified version and is actively stocked by ST and authorized distributors. Aetrix Electronics confirms ongoing availability with full traceability and standard 12-month warranty.