Infineon BTS3018TC High-Current Power Switch: Features and Applications

The Infineon BTS3018TC is a highly integrated, high-current power switch designed for robust performance in demanding automotive and industrial applications. As part of Infineon’s PROFET™ (Protected MOSFET) family of smart high-side switches, this device combines power switching, protection, and diagnostic functions in a single package, offering both reliability and ease of use.

A standout feature of the BTS3018TC is its high current handling capability, supporting continuous currents up to 28 A. This makes it suitable for driving heavy loads such as motors, heaters, or LEDs in systems requiring substantial power. The device is built around a vertical N-channel power MOSFET with an extremely low typical on-state resistance (RDS(on)), which minimizes conduction losses and improves overall energy efficiency.

The integration of advanced protection mechanisms is a key strength of this power switch. It includes overload and short-circuit protection, which safeguards the switch and the connected load under fault conditions. Additionally, the device offers overtemperature protection that triggers automatic shutdown if the junction temperature exceeds a safe threshold, preventing thermal damage. Overvoltage protection (such as load-dump resilience) and reverse battery protection further enhance system durability in harsh electrical environments.

Another critical aspect is its diagnostic and control capability. The BTS3018TC provides a status feedback pin that delivers information about operating conditions, including open-load detection in on and off states, short-circuit alerts, and overtemperature warnings. This enables real-time monitoring and swift system response, which is essential for safety-critical applications.

The BTS3018TC is housed in a TO-220 package, which provides excellent thermal performance and ease of mounting. Its wide operating voltage range makes it compatible with 12 V and 24 V DC systems commonly found in vehicles and industrial machinery.

Typical applications include:

- Automotive systems: driving lights, window lifters, seat controllers, fuel pumps, and fan modules.

- Industrial automation: controlling solenoids, actuators, and power distribution units.

- Heavy-duty motor control in various electromechanical systems.

ICGOOODFIND

The Infineon BTS3018TC stands out as a versatile and highly protected high-current power switch, combining efficiency, diagnostic intelligence, and resilience. It is an ideal solution for modern automotive and industrial systems where reliability, compact integration, and comprehensive protection are paramount.

Keywords:

High-Current Switch, Protected MOSFET, Overload Protection, Diagnostic Feedback, Automotive Applications