ROHM launches smart switches for zonal controllers

ROHM has recently unveiled a new family of smart Switches tailored for zonal controllers, aiming to elevate reliability and performance in next-generation automotive systems. The BV1HBxxxEFJ series comprises six intelligent power devices designed for zonal control, offering low ON resistance ranging from 9 mΩ to 180 mΩ and high-precision current sensing capabilities. These features ensure robust protection for various vehicle subsystems like lighting, door locks, and power windows.

For readers of eeNews Europe, this launch underscores how semiconductor innovation is tackling emerging system-level challenges in automotive design, particularly in the transition towards zonal architectures and increased electrification. Engineers involved in electric vehicles (EVs) or advanced control modules will find ROHM’s approach noteworthy for its ability to balance safety, performance, and design flexibility.

Engineered for Zonal Controller Architectures

As the automotive industry shifts towards zonal control architectures in electric and autonomous vehicles, efficiently managing a growing number of electronic loads has become crucial. While traditional smart switches may struggle with high-capacitance loads, ROHM’s new devices are specifically engineered to handle such conditions effortlessly. The series is touted to offer key performance attributes like low ON resistance, high inductive energy clamp, and improved capacitive load drive capability.

This unique combination eliminates the necessity for mechanical fuses and simplifies protection schemes within complex distributed systems. ROHM further emphasizes that the devices boast robust diagnostic features, including open load and reverse battery detection, enhancing safety and reliability within automotive networks.

Enhanced Current Sensing and Thermal Design

The BV1HBxxxEFJ devices feature integrated high-accuracy current sensing functionality (±5%), providing effective protection for wiring harnesses and output loads. Housed in a compact HTSOP-J8 package, these devices offer excellent heat dissipation and layout flexibility, ideal for dense automotive PCBs.

ROHM highlights its proprietary process technology, which enables the achievement of both low ON resistance and high inductive energy tolerance—typically conflicting parameters. This balance not only enhances efficiency and safety but also supports the evolving requirements of electrified and autonomous vehicles.

Looking ahead, ROHM plans to expand its automotive portfolio, with a focus on enhancing safety, security, and energy efficiency across forthcoming product generations. The company remains committed to driving innovation in the automotive semiconductor space to meet the evolving needs of the industry.