STMicroelectronics VNP20N07-E

Overview

VNP20N07-E from STMicroelectronics is a fully autoprotected monolithic VIPower MOSFET in TO-220 package, rated for 70 V drain-source voltage, 20 A current limit, and 0.05 Ω R_DS(on) at 10 V gate drive. It integrates linear current limiting, thermal shutdown, overvoltage clamp, and diagnostic feedback via the input pin, enabling robust switching in DC–50 kHz inductive load control.

For engineers reviewing the VNP20N07-E datasheet, VNP20N07-E pinout, VNP20N07-E application, or VNP20N07-E equivalent, key selection considerations include its integrated fault detection (via input-pin voltage collapse to ~0 V), rugged 0.95 J single-pulse avalanche energy, and compatibility with TTL-level driving while maintaining direct gate access for analog control.

Technical Context

The VNP20N07-E implements ST's VIPower technology to embed protection logic directly on-die: a linear current limiter activates at 14–28 A depending on input voltage, clamping V_DS to 60–80 V during overvoltage events, and triggering thermal shutdown at ≥150 °C with automatic restart at ≤135 °C.

Fault status is communicated by sinking up to 50 mA through the input pin (equivalent to 100 Ω to ground), enabling simple microcontroller monitoring without external sensors. Its 60 nC total gate charge and 60 A/µs turn-on di/dt support fast, controlled switching into resistive and inductive loads up to 50 kHz.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Supplied in standard TO-220 package (1.9 g typical weight) with isolated tab (drain-connected), compliant with JEDEC TO-220AB mechanical outline per DocID1607 Rev 3.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with STSPIN240 and IPS1025H, the VNP20N07-E uniquely combines single-pin fault reporting, 0.95 J avalanche robustness, and direct TTL/analog gate drive in a legacy-compatible TO-220 package - ideal for retrofitting relay-based systems without redesigning control logic or layout.

Availability

VNP20N07-E is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial motor control, automated valve actuation, and DC power distribution requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle assurance.

Supply support for VNP20N07-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, designing and manufacturing silicon solutions for automotive, industrial, and power management applications.

The VNP20N07-E belongs to ST's OMNIFET family of protected power switches, engineered specifically for replacing electromechanical relays and discrete MOSFETs in harsh industrial environments with minimal external components.

FAQ

What is the maximum continuous drain current for VNP20N07-E?

The device does not specify a continuous DC current rating due to thermal dependence on heatsinking. Its current limit is set at 20 A (typical) under V_IN = 10 V, but sustained operation above 10 A requires active cooling to avoid thermal shutdown at 150 °C junction temperature. Derating curves in the datasheet show usable current drops to ~8 A at T_c = 80 °C with standard TO-220 mounting.

How does the input pin provide fault feedback?

During overtemperature or short-circuit fault, the internal protection circuit disconnects the input pin from the gate and connects it to ground through an effective 100 Ω resistor. This pulls the input voltage to near 0 V while sinking up to 50 mA, allowing a microcontroller GPIO to detect the fault state using a simple voltage divider and ADC or comparator input.

Can VNP20N07-E be used with 3.3 V logic controllers?

Yes - its input threshold voltage ranges from 0.8 V (min) to 3 V (max), making it compatible with 3.3 V CMOS outputs. However, R_DS(on) increases to 0.07 Ω at V_IN = 5 V, so full 0.05 Ω performance requires ≥10 V drive. For 3.3 V systems, ensure load current stays within derated limits and verify thermal margin with measured case temperature.

Is external clamping diode required when driving inductive loads?

No - the integrated 70 V clamp (60–80 V range) and 0.95 J avalanche energy rating allow safe operation with unclamped inductive loads such as solenoids and DC motors. External diodes are unnecessary unless system-level transient immunity requirements exceed the device's specified E_AS or repetitive avalanche capability must be extended beyond single-pulse conditions.