STMicroelectronics VNL5160N3TR-E Low‑Side Smart Power Switch (SOT‑223, ~320 mΩ Rds(on))
At a glance
- Manufacturer / Brand: STMicroelectronics
- Series: VNL5160
- Category: Low‑Side Smart Power Switches
- MPN: VNL5160N3TR-E
- Channels: 1 (single‑channel)
- Switch type: Low‑side smart power switch
- On‑resistance (Rds(on)): Approximately 320 mΩ
- Package / Case: SOT‑223‑4
- Mounting type: Surface mount
- Packaging for shipment: Tape & Reel (TR)
STMicroelectronics’ VNL5160N3TR-E is a compact, single‑channel low‑side smart power switch designed to simplify driving loads from a microcontroller while conserving board space. Housed in a SOT‑223‑4 package and supplied on tape and reel for automated assembly, the VNL5160N3TR-E combines the ease of use of a logic‑driven low‑side switch with the convenience of an integrated power stage. With an approximate Rds(on) of 320 mΩ, it supports efficient switching for a wide range of low‑to‑moderate current loads typically found in embedded and industrial systems.
Overview
Low‑side smart power switches are a staple for controlling loads that connect to the supply rail, where the switch is placed between the load and ground. The STMicroelectronics VNL5160N3TR-E serves this role with a single controllable channel in a thermally friendly SOT‑223 package. The low on‑resistance helps reduce conduction losses, while the compact footprint and four‑lead format enable high density layouts and straightforward routing.
Because it is a smart power switch rather than a bare MOSFET, designers can generally expect a simplified interface to the microcontroller and improved robustness versus discrete implementations. In applications where board space, assembly cost, and repeatable performance are important, the VNL5160N3TR-E offers an attractive balance of integration and size.
Key specifications and ordering details
- Device: STMicroelectronics VNL5160N3TR-E
- Architecture: Low‑side, single‑channel smart power switch
- Rds(on): ~320 mΩ (approximate)
- Package: SOT‑223‑4
- Mounting: Surface mount (SMT)
- Shipment packaging: Tape & Reel (TR)
What’s intentionally not listed here is any parameter that is not validated in the provided sources for this session (e.g., absolute maximum ratings, diagnostics, protection thresholds, voltage/current limits). Always refer to the official STMicroelectronics datasheet and product page for those details before design‑in.
- Datasheet: https://www.st.com/resource/en/datasheet/vnl5160n3-e.pdf
- Product page: https://www.st.com/en/automotive-analog-and-power/vnl5160n3.html
Why choose a low‑side smart power switch like the VNL5160N3TR-E?
While a discrete MOSFET plus a few resistors can switch a load, smart power switches bring valuable benefits:
- Integration: A single part simplifies the bill of materials and assembly.
- Drive simplicity: Logic‑level control without crafting a custom gate‑drive network.
- Consistency: Factory‑characterized behavior improves repeatability across builds.
- Board efficiency: SOT‑223 keeps the footprint small, easing routing near connectors and MCUs.
The VNL5160N3TR-E fits neatly into designs where a microcontroller must switch one channel reliably and efficiently with minimal external components.
Typical applications
Because the VNL5160N3TR-E is a low‑side smart power switch, it is broadly applicable anywhere a system needs to pull a load to ground under MCU control. Common use cases include:
- Embedded control: Switching small motors, relays, solenoids, lamps, or heaters (observe all current and voltage limits in the datasheet).
- Industrial I/O: Driving indicators or actuators from PLC‑ or MCU‑based modules.
- Automotive and transportation systems: General low‑side load control where a compact SOT‑223 solution is advantageous. Note: automotive qualification is not specified in the provided summary—verify requirements against the official documentation.
- Building automation: Valves, dampers, or latches in HVAC and access control subsystems.
- Consumer/white goods: Control of simple loads in appliances and small equipment.
These examples are generic to low‑side switching. Select and apply the VNL5160N3TR-E only within the electrical limits and protections confirmed from the official datasheet.
Design and implementation notes
Electrical planning
- Headroom and losses: Conduction power loss scales with I² × Rds(on). For a given load current I, estimate conduction dissipation as Pcond ≈ I² × 0.32 Ω (using the approximate 320 mΩ value). This first‑order estimate helps size copper area and anticipate thermal behavior. Replace 0.32 Ω with the exact value and condition from the datasheet for precise calculations.
- Transients and inductive loads: Many loads are inductive. Validate how energy from load turn‑off is to be handled and what protections the device provides. Do not assume any specific protection (e.g., clamp diodes, thermal shutdown) without confirmation from the datasheet.
- Control interface: Low‑side smart switches are typically MCU‑friendly, but confirm input thresholds, leakage, and recommended driving conditions.
PCB layout and thermal practices for SOT‑223
- Copper area: The SOT‑223 tab/pad is a primary heat path. Provide an adequate copper plane to spread heat. Manufacturer thermal data in the datasheet (e.g., RθJA vs. copper area) should guide your layout.
- Thermal vias: Where possible, stitch vias to inner planes or the opposite side to improve heat spreading.
- Current paths: Keep the load current loop short and heavy. Route the ground return and load path to minimize voltage drop and EMI.
- Separation and clearance: Maintain appropriate spacing from sensitive analog traces and clock lines to reduce coupled noise from switching edges.
Validation and derating
- Prototype under worst‑case conditions (maximum ambient temperature, maximum continuous load current, minimum supply voltage) to confirm margin.
- Review the absolute maximum ratings and recommended operating conditions in ST’s datasheet; derate conservatively for long‑term reliability.
Sourcing, packaging, and inventory guidance
- Orderable part number: VNL5160N3TR-E
- Manufacturer: STMicroelectronics
- Shipment form: Tape & Reel (TR), ideal for automated pick‑and‑place.
- Package: SOT‑223‑4, standard SMT process compatible.
- Inventory status: The provided listing shows 0 units currently in stock. Availability can change quickly—check with authorized distributors or ST’s channel partners for the latest status.
For procurement, ensure the exact MPN “VNL5160N3TR-E” appears on the purchase documents. The “TR” suffix indicates tape‑and‑reel packaging; for any other suffix meanings or alternate packing, consult the “Ordering information” section in the datasheet or ST’s product page.
Lifecycle and compliance
- Lifecycle status: Not specified in datasheet.
- Environmental/RoHS status: Not specified in datasheet.
If your project requires specific compliance (e.g., RoHS, REACH) or a defined lifecycle state (Active, NRND, EOL), verify this directly on the STMicroelectronics product page or with an authorized distributor prior to committing the design.
Comparison and selection tips
When deciding whether the STMicroelectronics VNL5160N3TR-E is the right fit, consider:
- Channel count: This device provides a single channel. If your design needs multiple channels, assess whether multiple VNL5160N3TR-E devices or a multi‑channel smart switch better meets your BOM and space goals.
- On‑resistance: The approximate 320 mΩ Rds(on) affects conduction losses and thermal rise. Estimate I²R losses at your worst‑case current and evaluate against your thermal budget.
- Protections and diagnostics: Some smart switches offer features like overcurrent limiting, thermal shutdown, and fault reporting. These capabilities are not specified in this summary for the VNL5160N3TR-E—confirm in the datasheet if they are required for your application.
- Package and assembly: SOT‑223‑4 is widely supported and robust, making it suitable for cost‑sensitive, compact boards that still need decent thermal performance without a large heat sink.
If the confirmed datasheet values match your requirements, the VNL5160N3TR-E can streamline your low‑side switching stage and reduce design risk compared to a discrete approach.
What’s not specified here (check the datasheet)
To avoid speculation, these common selection parameters are not included in this article unless verified. Please consult the official STMicroelectronics documents for:
- Supply and load voltage ranges
- Maximum continuous/peak current
- Built‑in protections (overcurrent, overtemperature, short‑to‑battery, etc.)
- Switching speed and timing
- Diagnostic/fault‑reporting features
- ESD/EMC robustness
- Temperature ratings and derating curves
- Qualification level (e.g., automotive)
- Moisture sensitivity level (MSL)
- Detailed thermal metrics (RθJA, RθJC)
Practical design checklist
- Confirm electrical limits against your worst‑case load profile and ambient conditions.
- Calculate I²R conduction loss using the datasheet Rds(on) under the appropriate test condition.
- Review transient behavior with your specific load type (inductive vs. resistive) and add external suppression as required by the datasheet guidance.
- Validate the control input interface with your MCU voltage levels and timing.
- Lay out a generous thermal pad for the SOT‑223 tab and stitch to planes with vias as appropriate.
- Verify lifecycle/compliance and order the exact MPN: VNL5160N3TR-E (Tape & Reel).
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
What is the STMicroelectronics VNL5160N3TR-E?
It is a single‑channel, low‑side smart power switch from STMicroelectronics, supplied in a compact SOT‑223‑4 package and shipped in Tape & Reel for automated assembly.
How many channels does it provide?
One channel (single‑channel).
What is the on‑resistance?
Approximately 320 mΩ Rds(on). Refer to the datasheet for the exact value and test conditions.
What package does the VNL5160N3TR-E use?
SOT‑223‑4, suitable for standard SMT processes.
Is the VNL5160N3TR-E automotive qualified?
Not specified in datasheet in this summary. Check the official product page and datasheet for qualification details.
Does it include protections or diagnostics?
Not specified in datasheet in this summary. Consult ST’s datasheet to confirm any integrated protection or diagnostic features.
What does the “TR” in VNL5160N3TR-E indicate?
“TR” denotes tape‑and‑reel shipment packaging. Always verify full ordering information in the datasheet.
Can I hand‑solder the SOT‑223 package in prototypes?
SOT‑223 is generally hand‑solderable with proper technique, though reflow is recommended for production. Follow your assembly guidelines and the package recommendations from ST.
Where can I find the most up‑to‑date information?
Use the official resources:
- Datasheet: https://www.st.com/resource/en/datasheet/vnl5160n3-e.pdf
- Product page: https://www.st.com/en/automotive-analog-and-power/vnl5160n3.html
Resources
- STMicroelectronics VNL5160N3TR-E product page: https://www.st.com/en/automotive-analog-and-power/vnl5160n3.html
- Datasheet download: https://www.st.com/resource/en/datasheet/vnl5160n3-e.pdf
Note: This article intentionally avoids any specification not explicitly verified in the provided sources. Where parameters are listed as “Not specified in datasheet,” consult the official STMicroelectronics documentation to obtain final values before design‑in.