Automotive IC Consolidates Door-Mounted Drivers

Deemed the first single chip that produces the major signals necessary to drive vehicle door-mounted systems as well as providing a better method for controlling electro-chrome (EC) rear-view mirrors, the L99DZ70XP driver IC eliminates discrete drivers normally mounted in multiple locations inside the door. The EC-mirror controller generates control signals for a small external MOSFET driving the EC element, allowing closed-loop current control for enhanced reliability. Six of the device’s outputs are for motor-drive applications such as mirror positioning and folding, and door-lock actuation. Up to four drivers are available for lighting applications and two are programmable to drive either LEDs or conventional bulbs. Another output drives the mirror defroster. Other features include soft start, SPI communication, and a 36-pin PowerSSO-36 package with enhanced thermal properties for all automotive operating environments. With samples available now and production ramping for the first quarter of 2009, price is $3 each/100,000. STMICROELECTRONICS, Lexington, MA. (888) 787-3550.