Smart Power Applications in Multiplex Systems

Advances in integrated circuit technology over the past few years have led to the development of a group of technologies that have been classed as smart power. These new technologies now allow the semiconductor manufacturer to include logic and analog control on the same monolithic device with power transistors capable of controlling many Watts of output power. Recently developed devices have the capability to control up to 400 Watts of power delivered to the load with a single monolithic integrated circuit.

Many of the Smart Power technologies are compatible with the automotive environment and may be used to fabricate devices for power actuation in an automotive multiplex control system. This paper gives a brief overview of four smart power technologies and their applications in an automotive multiplex control system for body electric. Two specific devices recently developed in these technologies are introduced.