Infineon TDA21472AUMA1: High-Current Smart Power Switch for Automotive and Industrial Applications

The demand for robust, intelligent power management solutions continues to grow across the automotive and industrial sectors. Addressing this need, Infineon Technologies has introduced the TDA21472AUMA1, a state-of-the-art high-current smart power switch designed to deliver superior performance, diagnostics, and protection in the most demanding environments.

This device is a single-channel high-side switch based on an advanced BCD (Bipolar-CMOS-DMOS) technology, allowing it to handle impressive continuous currents up to 27 A. Its primary function is to act as an intelligent interface between a low-power microcontroller (MCU) and a high-power load, such as a motor, solenoid, or lighting system. By integrating control logic, drive circuitry, and power output into a single package, it significantly reduces system complexity, board space, and overall bill-of-materials costs.

A key strength of the TDA21472AUMA1 lies in its comprehensive suite of integrated protection and diagnostic features. These are critical for ensuring system longevity and functional safety, especially in automotive applications where reliability is non-negotiable. Key protections include:

Overload and Short-Circuit Protection: The device actively limits output current to prevent damage under fault conditions.

Overtemperature Shutdown: An internal temperature sensor shuts down the output if the junction temperature exceeds a safe threshold, with automatic restart upon cooling.

Overvoltage Protection (including load-dump): It is engineered to withstand the harsh transients typical in 12V automotive systems.

Reverse Battery Protection: The IC can handle a reverse voltage at its terminals, safeguarding the system from incorrect battery connection.

Furthermore, it provides detailed diagnostic feedback to the MCU, including open-load detection (both in on- and off-state), overcurrent indication, and a status flag for error reporting. This enables predictive maintenance and swift troubleshooting.

The TDA21472AUMA1 is particularly suited for a wide range of applications. In the automotive domain, it is ideal for driving body control modules, powertrain systems, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). In industrial settings, it finds use in programmable logic controllers (PLCs), factory automation, and heavy-duty solenoids and actuators.

ICGOOODFIND: The Infineon TDA21472AUMA1 stands out as a highly integrated and resilient solution for high-current switching. Its blend of high power density, extensive diagnostic capabilities, and robust protective functions makes it an exceptional choice for engineers designing next-generation automotive and industrial systems that prioritize safety, reliability, and efficiency.

Keywords:

1. Smart Power Switch

2. High-Current

3. Automotive Applications

4. Diagnostic Features

5. Overload Protection