STMicroelectronics, a global semiconductor leader, has presented a new alternative to companies seeking to achieve both space optimization and functional safety in the automotive electronics market.

ST announced on the 1st that it has launched a new 8-channel low-side driver, the 'L9800', that simultaneously secures safety and space efficiency in automotive electronic systems.

The L9800 is a solution that makes it easier to achieve certification up to ASIL-B system level under the international safety standard ISO 26262, and is available in an ultra-small lead-less package suitable for body control modules, HVAC, air conditioning systems, and power domain control.

The compact design of TFQFN24 (4mm x 4mm) enables high-density design, boasting high space utilization in automotive electrical design.

This product can reliably drive resistive, capacitive, and inductive loads such as relays, solenoids, and LEDs, and has real-time diagnostic and protection functions built into each channel.

It detects open circuits, short circuits, overcurrent and overtemperature situations, and provides access to device settings and diagnostic signals via the SPI port, greatly improving system reliability.

A particularly notable feature is the 'Limp-Home' mode.

It can control two channels through hardware even in the absence of digital supply voltage, helping to maintain basic functions and ensure safe vehicle operation even in the event of microcontroller failure or power failure.

It also supports 'Bulb-Inrush' mode, ensuring stable performance even when driving small lamps or electronic loads with high input capacitance. It also guarantees operation in voltage environments down to 3V during engine cranking, thereby increasing overall system robustness.

ST is currently in full-scale production of the L9800, with pricing starting at $0.52 per unit for orders of 1,000 pieces.