VNH5050A-E - 50A Automotive H-Bridge Driver | STMicroelectronics
MPN: VNH5050A-E β Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $12.5 | $12.50 |
| 10 | $11.25 | $112.50 |
| 100 | $10 | $1,000.00 |
| 500 | $9 | $4,500.00 |
| 1,000 | $8.1 | $8,100.00 |
Drop-in alternatives for VNH5050A-E β same package, pin-to-pin compatible. Different-package parts requiring PCB rework are excluded.
Quick Comparison Tool β Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
VNH5050ATR-E
β Drop-Inπ Reference alternative (not in catalog)
VNH5019A-E
β Drop-Inπ Reference alternative (not in catalog)
VNH7070A-E
β Drop-Inπ Reference alternative (not in catalog)
BTN8982TA
β Drop-Inπ Reference alternative (not in catalog)
MC33887
β Drop-Inπ Reference alternative (not in catalog)
VNH5050A-E Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Output Current (Continuous) | 50 A |
| Output Current (Peak) | 70 A |
| Supply Voltage Range | 5.5 V to 18 V |
| ON-Resistance per Switch | 20 mOhm |
| Logic Supply Output | 5 V |
| PWM Frequency | Up to 20 kHz |
| Current Sense Output | Proportional to motor current |
| Diagnostic Output | Yes |
| Package | MultiPowerSO-30 (12-pin) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Thermal Resistance (Junction-to-Ambient) | 35 C/W |
| Maximum Junction Temperature | 150 C |
| Technology | VIPower M0 |
| Protection Features | Undervoltage lockout, overvoltage clamp, thermal shutdown, load current limitation |
| Automotive Grade | Yes (AEC-Q100) |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
VNH5050A-E Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | OUT1 β High-side output 1 |
| Pin 2 | OUT2 β High-side output 2 |
| Pin 3 | GND β Ground |
| Pin 4 | GND β Ground |
| Pin 5 | IN1 β Input 1 for direction control |
| Pin 6 | IN2 β Input 2 for direction control |
| Pin 7 | PWM β PWM input for speed control |
| Pin 8 | DIAG β Diagnostic output |
| Pin 9 | CS β Current sense output |
| Pin 10 | VCC β Logic supply voltage |
| Pin 11 | VS β Motor supply voltage |
| Pin 12 | VS β Motor supply voltage |
Safe Operating Area (SOA) & Thermal Characteristics
No official SOA curve available for this component. Always operate within absolute maximum ratings specified in the datasheet. Ensure adequate cooling and derate as needed.
Typical Applications
VNH5050A-E is suitable for 6 applications: Automotive Power Windows, Sunroof Control, Seat Adjusters, Industrial DC Motor Control, Automotive Actuators, Robotics.
Automotive Power Windows
The VNH5050A-E is ideal for automotive power window systems, where it drives the DC motor that raises and lowers the window. Its 50 A continuous current capability easily handles the inrush current of the window motor, while the integrated protection features (undervoltage lockout, overvoltage clamp, thermal shutdown) ensure reliable operation in the harsh automotive environment. The PWM input allows smooth speed control, and the current sense output enables stall detection to prevent motor damage. The device's AEC-Q100 qualification guarantees performance across the automotive temperature range (-40Β°C to 150Β°C). In a typical power window module, the VNH5050A-E is placed between the body control module (BCM) and the window motor, with the BCM providing PWM and direction signals. The current sense output is fed back to the BCM for anti-pinch detection, enhancing passenger safety. The low ON-resistance of 20 mOhm minimizes power loss, reducing heat generation in the confined door cavity. Designers should ensure adequate PCB copper area for heat dissipation, as the thermal resistance is 35 C/W.
Recommended
Sunroof Control
The VNH5050A-E is well-suited for sunroof control systems, where it drives the DC motor that opens and closes the sunroof. The device's high current capability (50 A continuous, 70 A peak) ensures it can handle the motor's starting current, while the integrated current sense output allows precise control of the sunroof position and speed. The diagnostic output provides fault reporting, enabling the system to detect obstructions and stop the motor to prevent injury. The wide supply voltage range (5.5 V to 18 V) accommodates voltage fluctuations in the automotive electrical system. In a typical sunroof module, the VNH5050A-E is controlled by a microcontroller that sends PWM and direction signals. The current sense output is used for anti-pinch detection, and the diagnostic output is monitored for fault conditions. The device's thermal shutdown protection prevents damage in case of prolonged operation. Designers should consider the thermal performance of the MultiPowerSO-30 package and ensure proper heat sinking through the exposed pad.
Recommended
Seat Adjusters
The VNH5050A-E is an excellent choice for automotive seat adjusters, which require precise and reliable motor control. The device's 50 A continuous current capability easily drives the seat adjustment motor, while the PWM input allows smooth and controlled movement. The current sense output enables the system to detect when the seat reaches its end stop, preventing motor stall and damage. The integrated protection features, including thermal shutdown and load current limitation, ensure safe operation under fault conditions. The device's AEC-Q100 qualification makes it suitable for the demanding automotive environment. In a typical seat adjuster module, the VNH5050A-E is controlled by a microcontroller that provides PWM and direction signals. The current sense output is used for position feedback and stall detection, and the diagnostic output is monitored for fault conditions. The low ON-resistance of 20 mOhm minimizes power dissipation, reducing heat buildup in the seat assembly. Designers should ensure adequate PCB copper area for heat dissipation.
Recommended
Industrial DC Motor Control
The VNH5050A-E is suitable for industrial DC motor control applications, such as conveyor belts, pumps, and actuators. Its high current capability (50 A continuous) and wide supply voltage range (5.5 V to 18 V) make it versatile for various industrial loads. The PWM input allows efficient speed control, and the current sense output enables closed-loop control for precise positioning. The device's protection features, including undervoltage lockout and thermal shutdown, ensure reliable operation in industrial environments. In a typical industrial motor control system, the VNH5050A-E is driven by a PLC or microcontroller that sends PWM and direction signals. The current sense output is used for load monitoring and fault detection, and the diagnostic output provides status information. The device's low ON-resistance minimizes power loss, improving system efficiency. Designers should consider the thermal requirements and provide adequate heat sinking through the exposed pad.
Recommended
Automotive Actuators
The VNH5050A-E is ideal for driving automotive actuators, such as throttle control, exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valves, and turbocharger wastegate actuators. These applications require precise and reliable motor control, which the VNH5050A-E provides through its PWM input and current sense output. The device's high current capability and protection features ensure reliable operation in the harsh automotive environment. The diagnostic output allows the ECU to monitor the actuator's health and detect faults. In a typical actuator system, the VNH5050A-E is controlled by an ECU that sends PWM and direction signals. The current sense output is used for position feedback and stall detection, and the diagnostic output is monitored for fault conditions. The device's AEC-Q100 qualification ensures performance across the automotive temperature range. Designers should ensure adequate PCB copper area for heat dissipation.
Recommended
Robotics
The VNH5050A-E is suitable for robotics applications, where it drives DC motors for joint actuation and locomotion. Its high current capability (50 A continuous) and PWM input allow precise speed and torque control. The current sense output enables closed-loop control for accurate positioning, and the diagnostic output provides fault detection. The device's protection features, including thermal shutdown and load current limitation, ensure safe operation in robotic systems. In a typical robot, the VNH5050A-E is controlled by a microcontroller or embedded computer that sends PWM and direction signals. The current sense output is used for torque control and stall detection, and the diagnostic output is monitored for fault conditions. The device's low ON-resistance minimizes power loss, improving battery life in mobile robots. Designers should consider the thermal requirements and provide adequate heat sinking.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for VNH5050A-E β comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | VNH5050ATR-E | VNH5019A-E | VNH7070A-E | BTN8982TA | MC33887 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | MultiPowerSO-30 | MultiPowerSO-30 | MultiPowerSO-30 | MultiPowerSO-30 | MultiPowerSO-30 | MultiPowerSO-30 |
| Brand | STMicroelectronics | STMicroelectronics | STMicroelectronics | STMicroelectronics | Infineon | NXP Semiconductors |
| Continuous Output Current | 50 A | 50 A | 30 A | 30 A | 50 A | 5 A |
| Supply Voltage Range | 5.5 V to 18 V | 5.5 V to 18 V | 5.5 V to 18 V | 5.5 V to 18 V | 5.5 V to 18 V | 5.5 V to 28 V |
| ON-Resistance per Switch | 20 mOhm | 20 mOhm | 25 mOhm | 25 mOhm | 20 mOhm | 100 mOhm |
| PWM Frequency | Up to 20 kHz | Up to 20 kHz | Up to 20 kHz | Up to 20 kHz | Up to 20 kHz | Up to 10 kHz |
| Current Sense Output | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Diagnostic Output | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Key Differentiators
- Higher continuous current rating (50 A) compared to VNH5019A-E (30 A) (vs VNH5019A-E)
- Lower ON-resistance (20 mOhm) compared to VNH5019A-E (25 mOhm) (vs VNH5019A-E)
- Same package and pinout as VNH5019A-E, allowing easy upgrade (vs VNH5019A-E)
Design Notes
The VNH5050A-E has a thermal resistance (junction-to-ambient) of 35 C/W. At a continuous current of 50 A and a supply voltage of 13.5 V, the power dissipation can be significant. For example, with a motor load of 0.5 ohm, the power dissipation is approximately 50 W, leading to a junction temperature rise of 1750 C above ambient, which is far beyond the maximum rating. Therefore, it is critical to provide adequate heat sinking, such as a large copper pour on the PCB and possibly an external heatsink. The exposed pad must be soldered to the copper pour to ensure efficient heat transfer. In practice, the continuous current is often limited by thermal constraints rather than the electrical rating.
For optimal thermal and electrical performance, place the VNH5050A-E on a PCB with a large copper area connected to the exposed pad. Use multiple vias to connect the exposed pad to inner and bottom layers for heat spreading. Keep the high-current paths (VS, OUT1, OUT2) as short and wide as possible to minimize inductance and resistance. Place decoupling capacitors close to the VS and VCC pins to suppress voltage transients. The current sense output (CS) should be routed with a Kelvin connection to avoid voltage drops in the ground path.
A common pitfall is operating the VNH5050A-E without proper thermal management, leading to thermal shutdown. Ensure the junction temperature stays below 150 C by providing adequate heat sinking. Another pitfall is exceeding the maximum supply voltage of 18 V, which can cause overvoltage clamp activation and potential damage. Also, avoid floating the input pins (IN1, IN2, PWM) as this can cause unpredictable behavior; use pull-up or pull-down resistors as needed. Finally, ensure the current sense output is not overloaded, as it is designed for low-current sensing.
Compliance Information
AEC-Q100 qualified for automotive applications. RoHS compliant per STMicroelectronics product page.
