STMicroelectronics’ automotive power-management ICs

The ICs provide multiple standby modes with very low quiescent current and programmable local or remote wake-up to help minimise power consumption.

The power sources and transceivers available on-chip help simplify the design of car-body controllers for a sunroof, seats, tailgate, doors, and lighting modules. Highlighting their adaptability, the controllers are also used in gateways, HVAC controllers, passive keyless entry systems, telematic control units, and control panels.

The available variants include the SPSB081C3 and SPSB081C5, which contain a 3.3V or 5V fixed LDO, respectively, with one CAN transceiver. The SPSB0813 and SPSB0815 contain the additional LIN transceiver. The secondary LDO, included in all variants, can be programmed through the IC’s SPI port to operate as an independent 3.3V or 5V regulator or to track the main LDO. The four high-side drivers can source up to 140mA to power LEDs and sensors, with current monitoring and a 10-bit PWM timer for each channel.

Extensive built-in protection is provided, as well as a diagnostic output pin for fail-safe signalling. These features support use in applications that must satisfy functional safety requirements in accordance with ISO 26262, even if not designed as a safety hardware element. All outputs feature overcurrent protection and open-load fault indication. The primary (fixed) LDO features overvoltage protection, and thermal protection circuity while the secondary (programmable) LDO has overload, overtemperature, short-circuit, and reverse-bias protection. Both have short-to-ground monitoring at startup and continuous regulator-failure monitoring.