STMicroelectronics VNW50N04

Overview

VNW50N04 from STMicroelectronics is a fully autoprotected monolithic N-channel power MOSFET with integrated linear current limiting, thermal shutdown, and 42 V drain-source clamp. It delivers 50 A continuous drain current, 0.012 Ω R_DS(on) at 10 V gate drive, and operates up to 50 kHz in DC–inductive switching applications such as motor control and solenoid drivers.

For engineers reviewing the VNW50N04 datasheet, VNW50N04 pinout, VNW50N04 application, or VNW50N04 equivalent, key selection criteria include its fault-sink diagnostic feedback via input pin, rugged unclamped inductive energy handling (4 J), and compatibility with TTL-level gate drive while maintaining low on-resistance.

Technical Context

The VNW50N04 integrates protection logic directly onto the same die as the vertical power MOSFET, enabling real-time current sensing, junction temperature monitoring, and dynamic clamping without external components. Its linear current limiter activates at 35–65 A depending on input voltage, and overtemperature shutdown triggers at ≥170 °C with automatic restart at ≤155 °C.

Clamp behavior is defined by a fixed 42 V threshold (typ.) with ±6 V tolerance, and diagnostic feedback is implemented by switching the input pin to a 100 Ω ground path during fault - detectable as near-0 V at the driver output. The device supports analog gate driving with direct access to the internal MOSFET gate.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Supplied in standard TO-247 package (3-pin, straight lead, isolated tab), with case-to-drain isolation and thermal resistance R_thj-case = 0.6 °C/W.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar protected power switch applications.

Compared with STSPIN840 and IPS1021H, the VNW50N04 prioritizes maximum current delivery and ruggedness in simple high-power on/off roles - offering lowest R_DS(on), highest I_lim, and proven 4 J avalanche energy, making it optimal for cost-sensitive, high-reliability industrial actuators.

Availability

VNW50N04 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body electronics, industrial solenoid control, DC motor starters, and heating element regulation requiring stable component supply across long-lifecycle programs.

Supply support for VNW50N04 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 analog, power, MCU, and sensor solutions for industrial, automotive, and consumer markets.

The VNW50N04 belongs to ST's OMNIFET family - engineered specifically for replacing unprotected power MOSFETs in harsh-environment DC switching applications where reliability, integration, and diagnostic capability are critical.

FAQ

What is the purpose of the Input pin beyond gate control?

The Input pin serves dual functions: during normal operation, it drives the internal MOSFET gate; during overtemperature or short-circuit faults, it becomes a 100 Ω sink to ground, allowing detection via voltage drop at the driver output. This eliminates need for separate fault-reporting pins or external comparators.

Can VNW50N04 be used in high-side configuration?

Yes - the TO-247 package isolates the drain (pin 3) from the case, enabling safe high-side switching. Source (pin 2) connects to system ground, and load connects between supply and drain. Thermal design must account for R_thj-case = 0.6 °C/W and maximum P_tot = 208 W at T_c = 25 °C.

How does linear current limiting differ from traditional foldback protection?

Unlike foldback, which reduces current as voltage drops, VNW50N04's linear limiter holds drain current constant at I_lim (e.g., 50 A) regardless of V_DS, forcing the device into its linear region. This provides predictable trip behavior but requires careful thermal management to avoid sustained overheating before shutdown.

Is external gate resistor required for stability?

A gate resistor is recommended to control dV/dt and di/dt during switching - typical values range from 10 Ω (fast switching, higher EMI) to 1 kΩ (slower, lower EMI). The datasheet specifies switching times with R_gen = 10 Ω and 1 kΩ, confirming robustness across both extremes.