STMicroelectronics VND7N04

Overview

VND7N04 from STMicroelectronics is a monolithic VIPower M0-based fully autoprotected high-side power switch, functioning as a ruggedized replacement for standard N-channel MOSFETs in DC–50 kHz switching applications. It delivers 7 A current limit, 0.14 Ω R_DS(on) at 10 V_IN, 42 V integrated overvoltage clamp, thermal shutdown at 150 °C, and diagnostic feedback via the input pin. It is used in automotive body control modules for driving solenoids, lamps, and actuators under harsh load conditions.

For engineers reviewing the VND7N04 datasheet, VND7N04 pinout, VND7N04 application, or VND7N04 equivalent, key selection criteria include its linear current limiting behavior, gate-accessible analog drive capability, fault-sensing through input pin voltage collapse, and compatibility with TTL-level logic inputs without external level-shifting.

Technical Context

The VND7N04 integrates a power MOSFET with on-die protection circuitry including a voltage-clamped drain (42 V), linear current limiter (7 A typical), and junction-temperature sensing that triggers shutdown at ≥150 °C and auto-restart at ≤135 °C. Its input pin serves dual roles: gate control during normal operation and fault-sink path (100 Ω to ground) during thermal/short-circuit events.

Unlike discrete MOSFETs, it enables direct analog driving of the gate without external gate drivers, while maintaining robustness against inductive kickback via built-in avalanche energy handling (0.4 J) and fast reverse recovery (40 ns trr). The device operates up to 50 kHz with controlled switching times (td(on) = 50–150 ns, tf = 50–200 ns) under 10 Ω gate resistance.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: TO-252 (DPAK), surface-mount, thermally enhanced with exposed drain pad for heatsinking. Thermal resistance R_thj-case = 3.75 °C/W max.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with STVN7N04 and IPS1036H, the VND7N04 uniquely combines analog gate controllability, TTL-compatible input, and diagnostic feedback via the same pin-making it optimal for automotive and embedded systems requiring both precision drive and integrated fault visibility without added components.

Availability

VND7N04 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body electronics, industrial solenoid control, and DC motor brake circuits requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and compliance with AEC-Q100 stress testing requirements.

Supply support for VND7N04 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, designing and manufacturing silicon solutions for automotive, industrial, and consumer markets since 1987.

The VND7N04 belongs to ST's OMNIFET family of protected high-side switches, engineered specifically for replacing discrete MOSFETs in harsh automotive and industrial environments where reliability, integrated diagnostics, and simplified PCB layout are critical.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the VND7N04?

The VND7N04 is characterized for reliable operation up to 50 kHz in PWM-driven applications such as lamp dimming and solenoid control. Its switching times-td(on) = 50–150 ns and tf = 50–200 ns under 10 Ω gate resistance-support this range while maintaining thermal stability and fault response integrity.

Can the VND7N04 be driven directly by a 3.3 V microcontroller GPIO?

Yes. The VND7N04 has a TTL-compatible input threshold (V_IN(th) = 0.8–3 V), allowing direct connection to 3.3 V or 5 V logic outputs. Its low input current draw (250–550 µA) avoids loading the GPIO, and no external level shifter or pull-up resistor is required for functional operation.

How does fault detection work on the VND7N04?

During overtemperature or short-circuit faults, the internal protection circuit disconnects the input pin from the gate and connects it to ground through a 100 Ω internal resistor. This causes the input pin voltage to drop close to 0 V, which can be monitored by a microcontroller ADC or digital input to trigger fault logging or system shutdown.

Is the VND7N04 qualified for automotive applications?

The VND7N04 is designed for automotive environments and meets stringent requirements including operation across –40 °C to 150 °C junction temperature, robust ESD immunity (2000 V HBM), and built-in protections essential for under-hood use. While not explicitly AEC-Q100 certified in this revision, its architecture and test data align with automotive reliability standards.