ST has introduced a new quad low-side intelligent power switch, the IPS4260L. Featuring four 260mΩ typ RDS(ON) power switches and protection features in a thermally enhanced, space-efficient package, it enhances efficiency and reliability in industrial automation applications.

This new IC can manage up to 2.4A@TAMB=85°C (0.6A per channel or 2.4A on a single channel), with the current limit threshold set by an external resistor and the ability to parallel the channels.

The IPS4260L supports high switching frequencies (up to 250 kHz) with very low rise and fall times (tr, tf < 1 μs), making it ideal for general low-side switching of loads connected to the positive supply, including servo drives and motor control, industrial PC peripherals and PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), and provides rich diagnostic capabilities for smart industry/Industry 4.0 smart manufacturing applications.

These diagnostic features include open-load detection, which operates even when the output is off, preventing risks caused by faults such as short circuits. Additionally, a non-dissipative current limiting function shuts down the output after a user-selectable period of time in the event of an overcurrent. This time limit can be determined by an external resistor, and a restart attempt is made automatically.

ST's new power switch integrates a superior architecture to ensure fast response even to inductive loads such as motors, and provides fast demagnetization that allows a single external clamp diode to be shared among four channels.

Additional diagnostic features include four input/output open-drain pins for handling overload/thermal shutdown signals per channel, along with two general-purpose open-drain pins for indicating open load and overload/thermal shutdown.

The IPS4260L, part of ST's extensive family of intelligent power switches, is supported by a comprehensive ecosystem. This ecosystem includes a dedicated graphical user interface (STSW-IFP029GUI) for device configuration, a detailed user manual (UM2297), and the high-performance STEVAL-IFP029V1 evaluation board. This board meets international safety standards for industrial equipment, including galvanic isolation between logic and power stages, reverse polarity protection, and compliance with EMC regulations and IEC61000-4 specifications.