STMicroelectronics VNP28N04

Overview

VNP28N04 from STMicroelectronics is a fully autoprotected monolithic power MOSFET with integrated linear current limiting (28 A), overvoltage clamp (42 V), thermal shutdown (150 °C), and diagnostic feedback via input pin; designed for DC–50 kHz switching in automotive load driving, industrial solenoid control, and motor starter circuits.

For engineers reviewing the VNP28N04 datasheet, VNP28N04 pinout, VNP28N04 application, or VNP28N04 equivalent, this device offers verified fault-sensing capability, rugged unclamped inductive energy handling (2.5 J), and TTL-compatible drive - critical for high-reliability 12 V/24 V DC load management where protection autonomy and status reporting are mandatory.

Technical Context

The VNP28N04 integrates gate driver, current-sense amplifier, thermal sensor, and clamp diode into a single vertical power MOSFET die using ST's M0 Intelligent Power technology. Its input pin directly controls the internal gate but also serves as fault sink (50 mA) and status indicator during overtemperature events.

Protection logic operates independently of input voltage: current limiting activates at 20–40 A depending on V_IN, thermal shutdown triggers ≥150 °C and resets at ≤135 °C, and clamp voltage is fixed at 42 V with 2.5 J single-pulse avalanche rating - enabling safe operation under inductive kickback without external snubbers.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: TO-220 (3-pin, straight lead, insulated tab). Case temperature measured at mounting surface; R_thj-case = 1.5 °C/W max.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with STSPIN250 and IPS1021H, the VNP28N04 uniquely combines 28 A current capability, 42 V clamp, and diagnostic feedback on a single pin - making it irreplaceable in cost-sensitive, space-constrained automotive and industrial load-switching applications requiring autonomous protection and minimal external components.

Availability

VNP28N04 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body electronics, industrial solenoid control, and DC motor starter interfaces requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for VNP28N04 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 intelligent power, microcontrollers, and automotive-grade analog solutions.

The VNP28N04 belongs to ST's OMNIFET family of autoprotected power switches, engineered specifically for robust DC load control in automotive and industrial environments where reliability, integration, and fault transparency are non-negotiable.

FAQ

What is the maximum continuous drain current for VNP28N04?

The VNP28N04 features an internally limited drain current of 28 A under typical conditions (V_IN = 10 V, V_DS = 13 V). This limit is linear and active across its operating range, preventing destructive overcurrent even during short circuits. Actual sustainable current depends on heatsinking and ambient temperature due to thermal derating.

How does the diagnostic feedback mechanism work?

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 voltage near 0 V, allowing simple voltage monitoring (e.g., MCU ADC or comparator) to detect fault states without additional circuitry.

Can VNP28N04 replace a standard TO-220 MOSFET directly?

Yes - it uses the same TO-220 footprint and pinout, and behaves like a standard N-channel MOSFET when driven. However, it draws 250–500 µA from the input pin to power internal circuitry, and its R_DS(on) increases slightly at lower V_IN (0.05 Ω at 5 V), requiring verification in low-voltage drive scenarios.

Is external clamping required when driving inductive loads?

No - the integrated 42 V clamp and 2.5 J avalanche energy rating provide sufficient protection for typical 12 V/24 V inductive loads (e.g., solenoids, relays, small motors). External clamping is only needed for loads exceeding the device's specified unclamped inductive switching capability per datasheet Figure 2.