STMicroelectronics Debuts Two Automotive Low-Dropout Regulators

The two versions of the L99VR01 from STMicroelectronics (ST) operate from voltage inputs ranging from 2.15 to 28 volts. The current output is up to 200 mA, and when the LDO is disabled, it draws as little as 1 µA.

The L99VR01. Image courtesy of ST

Rather than the inaccurate voltage divider methodology generally employed by LDOs, the L99VR01’s output is chosen via three selection pins. Accuracy is kept to within ±2% over the temperature range over line and load variation.

By including output over-voltage monitoring, the LDOs provide constant load protection. This critical diagnostic feature makes it easier for designers to build in those functional-safety-related applications needed to satisfy ISO 26262 ASIL requirements.

 

Comparisons between the two versions of the L99VR01

The two versions of the LV99VR01 are the L99VR01S and the L99VR01J. Both LDOs feature enables and resets pins. Safety features include fast output discharge, under-voltage lockout (UVLO), thermal shutdown, over-voltage monitoring, and short-circuit protection. 

The L99VR01J offers additional features. It provides for programming the short-circuit current limit. It also offers output-overvoltage and thermal warning status indications. Additionally, it includes a programmable watchdog. This facility will check for the correct operation of the unit’s host MCU. 

 

Functional block diagram for the L99VR01J. Image courtesy of ST’s datasheet

 

The block diagram for the L00VR01S will be somewhat different. The I_SHORT pin found on the L99VR0IJ is used to program the short circuit current output, this feature and this pin are not part of the L99VR01S. The watchdog, controlling low voltage reset, is also missing from the L99VR01S, as are the pins V_CW and W_I, which are its inputs. Finally, the L99VR01S doesn’t include the advanced thermal warning feature, so its input pin, T_W is also not needed.

 

Electrical Specifications

Above its operating range of 2.15 to 28 volts, the devices can tolerate a single 400ms “transient load dump” of 40 volts.

Thermal Resistance:

• Thermal resistance junction to the case: for the L99VR01JTR in its POWERSSO 12 package, 8.5  °C/W
• Thermal resistance junction to lead: for the L99VR01S in its SO-8 package, 54.5 °C/W
• Thermal resistance junction to ambient: for the L99VR01JTR and the L99VR01S, the values are  27.4 and 71 °C/W, respectively
• Short circuit current upper value is 360 mA (typical for both devices)
• Static line regulation is 1%
• Dynamic line regulation is 3%

As is usually the case in complex electronic devices, the electrical specifications are highly conditional. A careful study of the datasheet is necessary to evaluate the many interrelationships and their design ramifications.

 

Applications

The LDOs will find use powering automotive:

• Junction boxes
• Body modules
• Sunroof controllers
• Instrument clusters
• Keyless entry controllers
• Sensors

 

Physical Considerations

The maximum size of both packages is 6.2 x 5.0 mm

• The L99VR01S is available in an SO-8 package and operates over a -40 to 150°C temperature range.
• The L99VR01JTR is supplied in a POWERSSO 12 package, and its operating range is -40°C to 175°C.

 

Regulatory

• The L99VR01 AEC-Q100 qualified

 

Environmental

• Both units feature an RoHS compliance grade of ECOPACK2