STMicroelectronics VNB49N04

Overview

VNB49N04 from STMicroelectronics is a fully autoprotected VIPower™ M0 monolithic Power MOSFET designed for high-reliability DC–50 kHz switching in harsh industrial environments. It features 42 V integrated overvoltage clamp, 20 mΩ R_DS(on) at V_IN = 10 V, 49 A linear current limit, and thermal shutdown at 150 °C. Used as a robust high-side switch in motor control, solenoid drivers, and power distribution modules.

For engineers reviewing the VNB49N04 datasheet, VNB49N04 pinout, VNB49N04 application, or VNB49N04 equivalent, key selection criteria include its diagnostic feedback via input pin, direct gate access for analog driving, ESD protection (2000 V HBM), and compatibility with TTL logic-level drive - critical for fault-tolerant embedded power stages.

Technical Context

The VNB49N04 integrates a Power MOSFET with on-die protection circuitry including linear current limiting (ILIM = 49 A), thermal shutdown (T_jsh = 150 °C), and an internal 42 V drain-source clamp. Its input pin serves dual roles: gate control during normal operation and fault-sink path (50 mA) during overtemperature events.

It operates as a high-side switch with direct gate access enabling analog driving, while maintaining compatibility with standard MOSFET gate drivers. Protection activation is independent of input voltage and relies on localized junction temperature sensing for fast response to short circuits and overload conditions.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: TO-263 (D2PAK), surface-mount, isolated heatsink tab (pin 10), RoHS-compliant ECOPACK®.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with STSPIN840 and IPS1021H, the VNB49N04 uniquely combines 20 mΩ conduction, 49 A current limit, and TO-263 thermal performance in a single-chip high-side switch - making it optimal for high-power, high-reliability industrial loads where board space permits D2PAK mounting.

Availability

VNB49N04 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial motor control, solenoid actuation, automotive body electronics, and power distribution units requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle support.

Supply support for VNB49N04 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 power management, automotive ICs, and industrial microcontrollers.

The VNB49N04 belongs to ST's VIPower™ M0 family of intelligent power switches, engineered for ruggedized high-side control in harsh environments where reliability, integrated protection, and diagnostic capability are mandatory.

FAQ

What is the maximum continuous drain current for VNB49N04?

The VNB49N04 has a linear current limit of 49 A, but continuous operation depends on thermal conditions. At T_c = 25 °C, its 125 W power dissipation rating supports ~25 A with proper heatsinking. Derating applies above 25 °C case temperature per Figure 4 in the datasheet, with full current limit disabled above 150 °C junction temperature.

How does the diagnostic feedback mechanism work during overtemperature events?

During overtemperature fault, the internal protection circuit disconnects the input pin from the gate and connects it to ground through a 100 Ω resistor. This pulls the input voltage to near 0 V, which can be detected by an MCU ADC or comparator. The device automatically resumes normal operation once junction temperature falls below 135 °C.

Can VNB49N04 be driven directly by a 3.3 V microcontroller GPIO?

Yes - its input threshold voltage (V_IN(th)) ranges from 0.8 V to 3.0 V, making it compatible with 3.3 V logic. However, at 3.3 V drive, R_DS(on) increases to ~50 mΩ (vs. 20 mΩ at 10 V), raising conduction loss. For full performance, use a 5 V or 10 V gate driver stage.

Is external clamping required when using VNB49N04 with inductive loads?

No - the device includes an internal 42 V drain-source clamp optimized for unclamped inductive switching. Testing confirms 4 J single-pulse avalanche energy handling (E_as). External clamping is unnecessary unless system-level transients exceed 42 V or require faster response than the internal clamp provides.