STMicroelectronics VND7N04-1-E

Overview

VND7N04-1-E 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 load 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. Used in automotive body control modules for driving solenoids, lamps, and actuators.

For engineers reviewing the VND7N04-1-E datasheet, VND7N04-1-E pinout, VND7N04-1-E application, or VND7N04-1-E equivalent, key selection criteria include its linear current limiting behavior, gate-direct analog drive capability, fault-sensing through input pin voltage collapse, and DPAK (TO-252) package thermal performance under pulsed inductive loads.

Technical Context

This device integrates a power MOSFET with on-die protection circuitry including linear current limiting, thermal shutdown at ≥150 °C, and an internal 42 V avalanche-rated clamp. Its input pin serves dual roles: gate control during normal operation and fault indicator (pulled to ~0 V via 100 Ω) during overtemperature or short-circuit events.

The VND7N04-1-E operates as a high-side switch with TTL-compatible input logic, supports analog gate driving, and features ESD protection (2 kV HBM). Its 3.75 °C/W junction-to-case thermal resistance and 60 W total dissipation at T_C = 25 °C enable robust thermal management in compact PCB layouts.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: TO-252 (DPAK), surface-mount, exposed drain pad for thermal conduction and electrical connection.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with IPS1025H and VND5N07TR-E, the VND7N04-1-E offers superior current capability (7 A), lowest on-resistance (0.14 Ω), and full diagnostic functionality - making it the preferred choice for automotive-grade, thermally constrained, and fault-aware high-side switching designs.

Availability

VND7N04-1-E is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body electronics, industrial PLC outputs, smart power distribution, and DC motor control requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for VND7N04-1-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, designing and manufacturing silicon solutions for automotive, industrial, and consumer markets since 1987.

The VND7N04-1-E belongs to ST's VIPower® M0 family of intelligent power switches, engineered specifically for robust, self-protected high-side load control in harsh automotive and industrial environments.

FAQ

What is the maximum continuous drain current for VND7N04-1-E?

The VND7N04-1-E provides a typical current limit of 7 A under normal operating conditions (V_IN = 10 V, V_DS = 13 V). This limit is internally enforced regardless of input voltage and remains stable across −40 °C to 125 °C junction temperature. Continuous current capability depends on PCB thermal design - with proper heatsinking, it sustains 4–5 A continuously in ambient air.

How does fault detection work on the input pin?

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 resistor. This pulls the input pin voltage to near 0 V, allowing a microcontroller GPIO to detect the fault condition without additional circuitry. The pin returns to normal gate-control function once the fault clears and junction temperature drops below 135 °C.

Can VND7N04-1-E be used with 3.3 V logic controllers?

Yes - the input threshold voltage (V_IN(th)) ranges from 0.8 V to 3 V, making it compatible with 3.3 V CMOS/TTL logic. However, R_DS(on) increases to 0.28 Ω at V_IN = 5 V and up to 0.56 Ω at 125 °C, so full 10 V drive is recommended for minimal conduction loss in high-current applications.

Is an external flyback diode required when driving inductive loads?

No - the VND7N04-1-E integrates a 42 V avalanche-rated clamp that safely dissipates inductive energy during turn-off. ST's datasheet confirms unclamped inductive load testing up to 30 mH with 15 V supply and 3.5 A current, eliminating the need for external flyback diodes in most automotive and industrial solenoid applications.