The new IPS8160HQ and IPS8160HQ-1 high-side switches from STMicroelectronics provide eight channels in a compact QFN48L package – with the added value of integrated protection and diagnostics. This unique combination of features saves space and increases reliability in PLC modules used to drive heavy loads and unidirectional motors in vending machines.
Additional applications for the new switches include I/O peripherals in factory automation equipment, computer numerical control (CNC) machines, and generally to control resistive, capacitive, and inductive loads with one side connected to ground.
Both switches have a low on-resistance (RDS(on)) of 160mOhm (typically at 25ºC), which helps minimize power dissipation.
Overload (OVL) and junction overtemperature (OVT) protection for each channel prevents damage to circuitry, minimizing any disruption caused by temporary failures. Overloaded channels automatically shut down and restart, keeping junction and enclosure temperatures below maximum safe levels, while non-overloaded channels continue to operate normally.
For greater safety, the device switches off immediately if the ground is disconnected. There's also overvoltage protection, undervoltage lockout (UVLO), short circuit protection, output current limiting, and an overheat fault indicator.
The IPS8160HQ has a preset current limit of 0.7A and the IPS8160HQ-1's current limit is 1A. Both switches have an operating voltage range of 10.5 to 36 V and are designed to facilitate compliance with international standards for industrial equipment. These include IEC 61131-2 for process controllers and IEC 61000 specifications for electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), electrostatic discharge (ESD) immunity, electrical fast transient (EFT/burst) immunity, and surge immunity.
Users can quickly evaluate the IPS8160HQ and IPS8160HQ-1 driving and diagnostic capabilities with the X-NUCLEO-OUT9A1 and X-NUCLEO-OUT19A1 digital output expansion boards for STM32 Nucleo boards, which can be connected to 1A industrial loads.