STMicroelectronics’ SPSB081 automotive power-management IC is a Swiss Army Knife of features including a main fixed-voltage low-dropout regulator (LDO), a secondary programmable LDO, four high-side drivers, a CAN FD transceiver^[1], and an optional LIN transceiver^[2]. The ICs provide multiple standby modes with very low quiescent current and programmable local or remote wake-up to help minimize power consumption.

The power sources and transceivers available on-chip help simplify the design of car-body controllers for a sunroof, seats, tailgate, doors, and lighting modules. Highlighting their adaptability, the controllers are also used in gateways, HVAC controllers, passive keyless entry systems, telematic control units, and control panels.

The available variants include the SPSB081C3 and SPSB081C5, which contain a 3.3V or 5V fixed LDO, respectively, with one CAN transceiver. The SPSB0813 and SPSB0815 contain the additional LIN transceiver. The secondary LDO, included in all variants, can be programmed through the IC’s SPI port to operate as an independent 3.3V or 5V regulator or to track the main LDO. The four high-side drivers can source up to 140mA to power LEDs and sensors, with current monitoring and a 10-bit PWM timer for each channel.

Extensive built-in protection is provided, as well as a diagnostic output pin for fail-safe signaling. These features support use in applications that must satisfy functional safety requirements in accordance with ISO 26262, even if not designed as a safety hardware element. All outputs feature overcurrent protection and open-load fault indication. The primary (fixed) LDO features overvoltage protection, and thermal protection circuity while the secondary (programmable) LDO has overload, overtemperature, short-circuit, and reverse-bias protection. Both have short-to-ground monitoring at startup and continuous regulator-failure monitoring.

The SPSB081 family is AEC-Q100 qualified, specified from -40°C to 150°C, and able to operate up to 175°C. All variants are in production and available in a thermally enhanced 5mm x 5mm x 1mm QFN32L package, from $1.80 for orders of 1000 pieces.