BTS428L2ATMA1: High-Current Power Switch for Automotive and Industrial Applications

The demand for robust and intelligent power management solutions is rapidly increasing in modern automotive and industrial systems. The BTS428L2ATMA1, a high-current power switch from Infineon Technologies, stands out as a critical component designed to meet these stringent requirements. This device integrates a multitude of advanced features into a single package, providing engineers with a reliable and efficient solution for controlling heavy loads.

As a Protected High-Side Power Switch, the BTS428L2ATMA1 is engineered to handle continuous currents up to 42A. Its primary function is to act as an electronic switch, connecting and disconnecting various loads—such as motors, heaters, solenoids, and lighting systems—directly to the battery voltage in 12V or 24V systems. This high-side configuration simplifies circuit design by eliminating the need for a separate ground connection for the load.

A key strength of this component is its comprehensive suite of integrated protection features. These are crucial for ensuring operational safety and longevity in harsh environments. Key protections include:

Overload and Short-Circuit Protection: Safely limits the output current in case of a fault, preventing damage to the switch and the downstream load.

Overtemperature Protection: Shuts down the device if the junction temperature exceeds a safe threshold, automatically restarting once it has cooled.

Overvoltage Protection (including load-dump): Shields the circuitry from voltage transients common in automotive environments.

Reverse Battery Protection: Safeguards the system if the battery connections are accidentally reversed.

Diagnostic Feedback: Provides a current sense (IS) pin that delivers a proportional current output for real-time load monitoring and sophisticated diagnostic capabilities, such as detecting open-load conditions.

The BTS428L2ATMA1 is housed in a TO-263-7 (D2PAK) package, which offers an excellent thermal performance-to-footprint ratio. This makes it suitable for space-constrained applications while effectively dissipating the heat generated during high-current operation. Its very low typical on-state resistance (RDS(on)) of just 4.5 mΩ minimizes power losses and improves overall system efficiency, reducing the need for complex heat sinking.

Applications for this power switch are vast. In the automotive sector, it is ideal for driving body control modules, HVAC systems, powertrain applications, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). In industrial automation, it reliably controls actuators, pumps, and heavy-duty solenoids.

ICGOOODFIND: The BTS428L2ATMA1 is an exemplary high-side switch that combines high current handling, robust integrated protection, and diagnostic intelligence. It significantly enhances the reliability, efficiency, and safety of power distribution systems in demanding automotive and industrial settings, simplifying design and reducing the total component count.

Keywords: High-Current Power Switch, Automotive Applications, Integrated Protection, Diagnostic Feedback, High-Side Switch.