Intelligent power switches for automotive applications

Leading communications equipment supplier, Motorola Inc., recently launched its e-switch range of products directed at the automobile industry.

These products provide a flexible, cost effective and intelligent electronic solution to automobile manufacturers seeking reduced cost, weight and size for electronic control modules. Higher reliability for instrumentation and body control is generally achieved by automakers with the replacement of traditional electromechanical relays by an electronic solution.

The new e-switch range of products from Motorola gives designers a solution that is robust and ''smart'', designed to provide diagnostic capabilities and high reliability and reduced parts counts. It combines the flexibility of power technology with advanced analog and digital features and is designed to be useful in body controllers, motor control and other high-power switching applications.

With their ability to handle up to 40 amps, the E-SWITCH parts are engineered to thrive in applications such as lighting control, motor control for windows, wipers and seats, HVAC, power steering and door locks.

According to the company, with e-switches automobile manufacturers may significantly cut their cost, size and weight issues for electronic control units, while making them even more reliable. These switches have an ultra low Rdson (ultra low resistance for less energy dissipation), advanced integrated diagnostics and protections (reverse battery protection, loss of ground, active current limitation and watch dog) and sophisticated analog and digital functions (integrated SPI, programmable current limitation and advanced fail-safe feature).