STMicroelectronics Launches New Half Bridge Gate Driver Designed for Automotive Use
STMicroelectronics Unveils L99H92: A Feature-Rich Automotive Gate Driver for Enhanced Motor Control
BonChip Electronics, a leading distributor of STMicroelectronics products, is excited to announce the availability of the L99H92 automotive gate driver. This highly integrated and versatile solution empowers engineers to design robust and efficient motor control systems for a wide range of automotive applications.
Comprehensive Functionality for Simplified Motor Control
The L99H92 offers a compelling feature set for designers:
- Dual High-Side and Low-Side Drivers: Capable of controlling a single H-bridge for a bidirectional DC motor or two half bridges for independent control of two unidirectional motors. This flexibility caters to diverse motor control requirements in vehicles.
- SPI Port for Programming and Diagnostics: Provides a convenient interface for configuration and system monitoring. Engineers can program various parameters through the SPI port, including gate driving current and protection thresholds, while also accessing diagnostic data for real-time system health assessment.
- Integrated Charge Pump: Ensures reliable operation even with fluctuating vehicle battery voltage. The charge pump maintains sufficient voltage levels for the high-side drivers, allowing the L99H92 to function with a supply voltage as low as 5.41 V. Additionally, the charge pump output can be connected to an external MOSFET for comprehensive reverse-battery protection.
Programmable Gate Driving Current for Optimized Performance
The L99H92 prioritizes flexibility and control:
- Configurable Slew Rate Control: The gate driving current is programmable through the SPI port, enabling engineers to tailor the slew rate for optimal performance. This fine-tuned control minimizes electromagnetic emissions and thermal dissipation in the system.
- Reduced Bill of Materials (BOM): Programming the gate driving current eliminates the need for up to four external discrete components per MOSFET traditionally required for slew-rate control. This simplifies design and reduces BOM costs.
- Wide Range MOSFET Compatibility: The L99H92 offers a maximum drive current of 170 mA, providing the necessary power to drive a broad selection of external MOSFETs, including high-power devices with significant gate capacitance.
Robust System Protection and Diagnostics
The L99H92 prioritizes safety and system reliability:
- Multiple Protection Features: The L99H92 incorporates a comprehensive suite of protection features, including programmable overcurrent protection, cross-conduction protection with dead-time control, over/under-voltage protection, overtemperature shutdown, and open-load/short-circuit detection. These features safeguard the driver and connected components from potential damage.
- Fail-Safe Input and Fault Warning: A dedicated fail-safe input allows for immediate shutdown of all MOSFETs in critical situations. Additionally, a diagnostic pin provides real-time fault notification without relying on periodic SPI communication.
Integrated Current-Sense Amplifiers for Enhanced System Monitoring
The L99H92 streamlines system design and monitoring:
- Dual Integrated Current-Sense Amplifiers: Two current-sense amplifiers are embedded within the L99H92, minimizing external components and simplifying system design. These amplifiers offer independent programmable gain, low offset, and low thermal drift for accurate current measurement. They can be selectively disabled when not in use to reduce power consumption. This integrated current sensing capability facilitates comprehensive system monitoring and control.
Typical Applications for the L99H92
The L99H92 is ideally suited for a variety of automotive applications requiring efficient and reliable motor control:
- Electric Sunroofs
- Window Lifts
- Powered Trunks
- Sliding Doors
- Seat-Belt Pre-Tensioners
BonChip Electronics: Your Partner for STMicroelectronics L99H92 Automotive Gate Driver
As a leading distributor of STMicroelectronics products, BonChip Electronics offers the L99H92 automotive gate driver and a comprehensive selection of motor control solutions. Our team of experts is dedicated to assisting you in selecting the optimal components for your automotive design projects. Contact BonChip Electronics today to learn more about how the L99H92 can simplify and enhance the performance of your next automotive motor control application.
