Hi,
First thank you in advance. I am interested in using the BTS500101TADATMA2 Power Switch in my power distribution application. It has a low Rds and seems to operate at 12V. The minimum nominal load current stated in the datasheet is 40A. I will be using this device at 12A or so. I can't find anything specific in the datasheet to tell me what the performance implications are. There is a Rds vs Tj plot with increasing current that starts at 20A which hints at maybe its not meant to operate at the current I need?

Please advise.

 

Hi,
First thank you in advance. I am interested in using the BTS500101TADATMA2 Power Switch in my power distribution application. It has a low Rds and seems to operate at 12V. The minimum nominal load current stated in the datasheet is 40A. I will be using this device at 12A or so. I can't find anything specific in the datasheet to tell me what the performance implications are. There is a Rds vs Tj plot with increasing current that starts at 20A which hints at maybe its not meant to operate at the current I need?

Please advise.

With all due respect, I'd caution you to beware jumping to conclusions - I've just speed-read the data sheet end-to-end & don't see your problem. The device is just a fancy switch, and can easily handle your 12A load [assuming you mount the device on an adequate heatsink]. The authors of the data sheet are more concerned to clearly state the behaviour at the extreme limits. Their stated "nominal load current" [top of page 36] is not a specification of a minimum load current for the device to operate. Study the data sheet carefully. In my experience it may take a dozen careful readings to get an adequate understanding of the device under consideration.

 

With all due respect, I'd caution you to beware jumping to conclusions - I've just speed-read the data sheet end-to-end & don't see your problem. The device is just a fancy switch, and can easily handle your 12A load [assuming you mount the device on an adequate heatsink]. The authors of the data sheet are more concerned to clearly state the behaviour at the extreme limits. Their stated "nominal load current" [top of page 36] is not a specification of a minimum load current for the device to operate. Study the data sheet carefully. In my experience it may take a dozen careful readings to get an adequate understanding of the device under consideration.

Thank you for you advise. I will read the datasheet carefully.