STMicroelectronics Redefines Car-Body Controller Design: Automotive Power-Management ICs

In the ever-evolving world of automotive technology, innovation knows no bounds. STMicroelectronics, a global leader in semiconductor solutions, continues to make remarkable strides in this sector. In this article, we delve into their latest creation, the SPSB081 automotive power-management IC, a versatile solution that simplifies car-body controller designs.

A Versatile Powerhouse

The SPSB081 automotive power-management IC can best be described as a Swiss Army Knife of features. It includes a main fixed-voltage low-dropout regulator (LDO), a secondary programmable LDO, four high-side drivers, a CAN FD transceiver, and even an optional LIN transceiver.

Optimized for Efficiency

One of the standout features of the SPSB081 is its ability to provide multiple standby modes with exceptionally low quiescent current. Moreover, it offers programmable local or remote wake-up functionality, which plays a pivotal role in minimizing power consumption, a crucial factor in modern automotive design.

Simplifying Car-Body Controller Designs

The power sources and transceivers integrated into the SPSB081 IC significantly simplify the design of car-body controllers. These controllers play a central role in managing various vehicle functions, including sunroofs, seats, tailgates, doors, and lighting modules. Impressively, these controllers exhibit remarkable adaptability and are also employed in gateways, HVAC controllers, passive keyless entry systems, telematic control units, and control panels.

Variants to Suit Diverse Needs

The SPSB081 family offers various variants to cater to different design requirements. This includes the SPSB081C3 and SPSB081C5, featuring a 3.3V or 5V fixed LDO, respectively, along with one CAN transceiver. Additionally, the SPSB0813 and SPSB0815 models include an additional LIN transceiver. Notably, the secondary LDO, present in all variants, can be programmed through the IC’s SPI port to function as an independent 3.3V or 5V regulator, or to track the main LDO.

Driving LEDs and Sensors

The four high-side drivers integrated into the IC can source up to 140mA, making them ideal for powering LEDs and sensors. Each channel also features current monitoring and a 10-bit PWM timer, offering precise control and flexibility in various applications.

Built-In Protection for Reliability

STMicroelectronics has not compromised on safety and reliability. Extensive built-in protection mechanisms are incorporated. A diagnostic output pin provides fail-safe signaling. These features make the SPSB081 suitable for applications that must adhere to functional safety requirements in accordance with ISO 26262, even if they are not originally designed as safety hardware elements.

All outputs are equipped with overcurrent protection and open-load fault indication. The primary (fixed) LDO boasts overvoltage protection and thermal protection circuitry, while the secondary (programmable) LDO includes overload, overtemperature, short-circuit, and reverse-bias protection. Both have short-to-ground monitoring at startup and continuous regulator-failure monitoring.

AEC-Q100 Qualified and Beyond

For the automotive industry, reliability and durability are paramount. The SPSB081 family meets these standards, being AEC-Q100 qualified and specified to operate from -40°C to 150°C, with the ability to withstand temperatures up to 175°C.

Availability and Package

Excitingly, all variants of the SPSB081 family are currently in production and available. They come in a thermally enhanced 5mm x 5mm x 1mm QFN32L package, ensuring ease of integration into various automotive designs.

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