BTS3046SDRATMA1 - 3.6A Smart Low-Side Switch HITFET | Infineon
MPN: BTS3046SDRATMA1 β Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1.45 | $1.45 |
| 10 | $1.28 | $12.80 |
| 100 | $1.05 | $105.00 |
| 500 | $0.92 | $460.00 |
| 1,000 | $0.81 | $810.00 |
| 2,500 | $0.74 | $1,850.00 |
BTS3046SDRATMA1 Overview
A smart low-side power switch is an intelligent semiconductor that sits between a microcontroller GPIO and a grounded load (relay coil, solenoid, LED string, lamp, or small motor), providing both load-driving capability and on-die protection that would otherwise require multiple discrete components. Low-side switches are particularly common in 12V automotive body electronics, where the load is referenced to battery positive and the switch only needs to sink current to ground; this simplifies wiring, reduces wiring-harness cost, and enables PWM-based dimming or speed control. As part of the broader power management IC hierarchy, the BTS3046SDRATMA1 sits below high-side switches and H-bridges in functionality but excels in cost-sensitive single-channel applications.
Key features include an operating voltage range of approximately 4.5 V to 42 V, 3.6A continuous drain current capability, very low standby current, CMOS-compatible input with internal pull-down, status feedback, and integrated over-voltage clamp. The N-channel vertical FET architecture delivers low Rds(on) per unit area while keeping thermal resistance manageable in the DPAK package, allowing sustained 3.6A output without an external heatsink on properly designed 1-2 oz copper pours.
Typical applications include automotive body control modules, junction-box relays and lamp drivers, ECU-controlled resistive and inductive loads, HVAC blower and fan control, industrial 24V solenoid and valve drivers, and any 12V/24V ground-referenced load requiring embedded protection. The AEC-Q100 automotive qualification (where applicable to the part variant) supports deployment in passenger compartment and under-hood environments.
Designers should pay attention to inductive-load flyback handling: although the device integrates over-voltage clamping, persistent inductive kickback above the clamp rating will degrade reliability. Add a TVS or free-wheeling diode for highly inductive loads such as solenoids and motors. The status pin requires a pull-up resistor to logic supply for proper fault signaling in the application firmware. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet.
Drop-in alternatives for BTS3046SDRATMA1 β same package, pin-to-pin compatible. Different-package parts requiring PCB rework are excluded.
Variants in this series
Same-series models that are drop-in compatible with BTS3046SDRATMA1 (same form factor and footprint) β differing in Package, Product Type, Protection Features, Operating Temperature Range, Diagnostic Output.
Quick Comparison Tool β Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
BTS3142DATMA1
β Drop-Inπ Reference alternative (not in catalog)
BTS3104SDRATMA1
β Drop-Inβ In Stock
$0.84 / Unit
View Datasheet βBTS462TATMA1
β Drop-Inβ In Stock
$1.38 / Unit
View Datasheet βBTS3011TEATMA1
β Drop-Inβ In Stock
$0.51 / Unit
View Datasheet βBTS452RATMA1
β Drop-Inβ In Stock
$0.85 / Unit
View Datasheet βVN750PSTR-E
β Drop-Inπ Reference alternative (not in catalog)
BTS3046SDRATMA1 Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Product Type | Smart Low-Side Power Switch (HITFET family) |
| Manufacturer | Infineon Technologies |
| Switch Configuration | 1:1 N-Channel, single channel |
| Continuous Output Current | 3.6 A |
| On-State Resistance (Rds(on)) | 95 mOhm (0.095 ohm) typical |
| Operating Voltage Range (Vbb) | 4.5 V to 42 V |
| Load Type | Low-side switch (ground-referenced load) |
| Package | PG-TO252-3-11 (DPAK, 3-pin with tab) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40 C to +150 C |
| Protection Features | Over-temperature, short-circuit, over-current, over-voltage (clamp), ESD |
| Input Logic | CMOS-compatible with internal pull-down |
| Status Feedback | Yes (status output pin) |
| Automotive Qualification | AEC-Q100 (where variant specified) |
| RoHS / Lead-Free | Compliant / Yes |
BTS3046SDRATMA1 Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | IN β Logic input (CMOS-compatible, with internal pull-down). Drive HIGH to turn on the switch. |
| Pin 2 | STATUS β Status feedback output. Pulls LOW to indicate fault condition (over-temperature, over-current, short-circuit). |
| Pin 3 | Vbb β Battery/supply voltage (4.5 V to 42 V). Provides power to the internal charge pump and logic. |
| Pin TAB | OUT / Drain β Switch output (drain of internal N-channel FET). Also serves as thermal pad for heat dissipation. |
Typical Applications
BTS3046SDRATMA1 is suitable for 7 applications: Automotive Body Control Module (BCM) Lamp Driver, Relay and Solenoid Driver (12V/24V Industrial), LED String Driver (Automotive Interior and Exterior), DC Fan and Blower Motor Control (HVAC, Cooling), Resistive Heating Element Driver (Seat Heater, Mirror Heater), Generic 24V Industrial Load Switching, Battery Management and Load Disconnect Switch.
Automotive Body Control Module (BCM) Lamp Driver
The BTS3046SDRATMA1 drives exterior and interior lamps (headlamp, tail, turn signal, dome) directly from a BCM's low-side outputs. Its 3.6 A continuous rating covers incandescent bulbs up to 43 W at 12 V, while the integrated over-temperature and short-circuit protection prevents catastrophic BCM failures when a bulb filament shorts to ground. The 4.5 V to 42 V operating range handles 12 V cranking transients and 35 V load-dump events typical in automotive power nets, eliminating the need for external TVS protection. Compared to a discrete MOSFET, the HITFET's integrated diagnostics via the STATUS pin allow the BCM firmware to detect open-load and short-circuit fault conditions, supporting OBD-II diagnostic requirements.
Recommended
Relay and Solenoid Driver (12V/24V Industrial)
In industrial PLCs and process-control equipment, the BTS3046SDRATMA1 drives 12V and 24V relays, pneumatic solenoid valves, and small hydraulic actuators from a ground-referenced low-side topology. Its 3.6 A continuous and pulsed-current capability comfortably handles relay coil inrush and solenoid pull-in currents, while the integrated over-voltage clamp absorbs inductive flyback energy from the relay coil at turn-off. Engineers should still consider an external free-wheeling diode for highly inductive solenoid loads exceeding the internal clamp's EAS rating. The CMOS-compatible IN pin interfaces directly to 3.3 V or 5 V microcontroller GPIOs without level shifters.
Recommended
LED String Driver (Automotive Interior and Exterior)
The BTS3046SDRATMA1 efficiently drives LED strings for daytime running lights, tail lights, brake lights, and interior ambient lighting using PWM dimming from the microcontroller. Its low Rds(on) of 95 mOhm keeps conduction losses minimal even at 3 A continuous LED current, while the STATUS pin provides fault feedback for open-LED detection. Compared to a bipolar transistor or discrete MOSFET solution, the HITFET's integrated thermal shutdown protects the LEDs and driver when ambient temperature rises in headlamp or under-hood enclosures. PWM dimming is supported directly via the IN pin at frequencies up to the datasheet's specified limit.
Recommended
DC Fan and Blower Motor Control (HVAC, Cooling)
The BTS3046SDRATMA1 provides PWM speed control for small DC brushless fans and HVAC blowers up to 3.6 A, typically used in HVAC modules, server cooling fans, and white-goods appliances. Its low Rds(on) and integrated thermal protection make it well-suited to enclosed fan modules with limited airflow. PWM dimming is achieved by driving the IN pin with a variable-duty-cycle signal from the host MCU, while the STATUS pin reports fault conditions. For higher-current fans above 3.6 A, consider BTS462TATMA1 or BTN8982TAAUMA1 from the same Infineon family.
Recommended
Resistive Heating Element Driver (Seat Heater, Mirror Heater)
In automotive seat heaters, mirror heaters, and steering-wheel heaters, the BTS3046SDRATMA1 serves as the low-side switch that pulses current through the resistive heating element under PWM control from a body or climate control module. Its 3.6 A continuous rating covers most single-zone heater elements (typically 5-10 A peak), and its integrated over-temperature protection prevents fire hazards if the heater element shorts. The 4.5 V to 42 V operating range tolerates automotive load-dump events. STATUS pin diagnostics allow the module firmware to detect open-heater failures.
Recommended
Generic 24V Industrial Load Switching
Beyond automotive, the BTS3046SDRATMA1 is well-suited for 24V industrial load switching in PLCs, sensor power distribution, and small actuator control. Its 42 V maximum Vbb rating handles 24V industrial supply rails with substantial transient margin, and its integrated protections make it a robust choice for unattended industrial installations where fault recovery is critical. The CMOS input allows direct connection to 3.3 V or 5 V industrial microcontroller GPIO without level shifting. Status feedback simplifies PLC fault diagnostics.
Recommended
Battery Management and Load Disconnect Switch
In battery-powered systems (e-bikes, portable industrial tools, backup battery packs), the BTS3046SDRATMA1 serves as a low-side load-disconnect switch that protects the battery from over-current conditions and isolates the load during deep-discharge events. Its low quiescent current minimizes battery drain during standby, and its integrated over-current and over-temperature protection prevents catastrophic battery failures. The STATUS pin allows the battery management MCU to report disconnect events to the user. Operating voltage range of 4.5 V to 42 V covers 12V, 24V, and 36V battery packs commonly used in light electric vehicles.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for BTS3046SDRATMA1 β comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | BTS3142DATMA1 | BTS3104SDRATMA1 | BTS462TATMA1 | BTS3011TEATMA1 | VN750PSTR-E |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | PG-TO252-3-11 (DPAK) | PG-TO252-3-11 (DPAK) | PG-TO252-3-11 (DPAK) | PG-TO252-3-11 (DPAK) | PG-TO252-3-11 (DPAK) | PG-TO252-3 (DPAK) |
| Brand | Infineon | Infineon | Infineon | Infineon | Infineon | STMicroelectronics |
| Continuous Output Current | 3.6 A | ~3.0 A | ~2.5 A | ~6.0 A | ~1.0 A | ~3.6 A |
| On-State Resistance (Rds(on)) | 95 mOhm | ~120 mOhm | ~200 mOhm | ~60 mOhm | ~500 mOhm | ~100 mOhm |
| Operating Voltage Range | 4.5 V to 42 V | 4.5 V to 42 V | 4.5 V to 42 V | 4.5 V to 42 V | 4.5 V to 42 V | 5.5 V to 36 V |
| Integrated Protections | OT, OCP, SCP, OVP-clamp, ESD | OT, OCP, SCP, OVP, ESD | OT, OCP, SCP, OVP, ESD | OT, OCP, SCP, OVP, ESD | OT, OCP, SCP, ESD | OT, OCP, SCP, ESD |
| Status Feedback Pin | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes (diagnostic) |
| Automotive Qualification | AEC-Q100 | AEC-Q100 | AEC-Q100 | AEC-Q100 | AEC-Q100 | AEC-Q100 |
| Approx. Unit Price (qty 1) | $1.45 | ~$1.30 | ~$1.10 | ~$2.10 | ~$0.90 | ~$1.60 |
Key Differentiators
- Industry-standard HITFET family pinout and protections (vs VN750PSTR-E (STMicroelectronics))
- Lower Rds(on) for higher efficiency at 3.6 A (vs BTS3104SDRATMA1)
- Integrated over-voltage clamp at the drain (vs Discrete N-MOSFET + external TVS)
Design Notes
Estimated: at 3.6 A continuous load with Rds(on) of 95 mOhm, conduction loss is approximately P = I^2 * R = 3.6^2 * 0.095 = 1.23 W. The PG-TO252-3-11 package has a typical junction-to-ambient thermal resistance of approximately 50-60 C/W on a JEDEC 1 sq-inch 1 oz copper pour, resulting in a junction temperature rise of 60-75 C above ambient. For continuous operation at 3.6 A above 85 C ambient, enlarge the copper pad to 2-3 sq inches or add thermal vias to an internal ground plane. The internal thermal shutdown triggers at approximately 150 C junction.
The metal tab of the PG-TO252-3-11 package is electrically connected to the OUT pin (drain) and serves as the primary thermal dissipation path. Solder the tab to a copper pad with a minimum area of 1 sq inch on the top layer, and add 4-8 thermal vias (0.3 mm drill, 1.0 mm pitch) to an internal ground or power plane to spread heat into the PCB. Place input and Vbb decoupling capacitors (100 nF ceramic minimum, plus 10 uF electrolytic for bulk) within 5 mm of the IN and Vbb pins respectively.
Do not exceed the integrated over-voltage clamp EAS rating when switching highly inductive loads. For relays with coil inductance above 100 mH or solenoids exceeding 500 mH, add an external free-wheeling diode (1N4007 or equivalent Schottky) across the load. Do not float the STATUS pin; if fault feedback is not used, connect it to GND or leave open only if datasheet permits. Do not drive the IN pin above Vbb; if MCU logic supply differs from Vbb, use a level translator or gate driver.
The STATUS pin is an open-drain output that requires an external pull-up resistor (typically 10 kOhm to MCU VDD). For long PCB traces, add a 100 pF capacitor near the MCU GPIO to debounce transient fault events during PWM operation. The IN pin has an internal pull-down; if the MCU GPIO is high-impedance during reset, the switch will be off by default, which is the safe state for most loads. Add a series resistor (1-10 kOhm) on the IN pin if the trace runs near fast-switching signals to limit injection noise.
Compliance Information
RoHS and REACH compliant per Infineon product declaration. AEC-Q100 qualified for automotive applications (suffix ATMA1 denotes automotive-grade). Lead-free and halogen-free per JEDEC IPC-1752 materials declaration.
