Infineon TLE9461-3ES: A Multi-Channel Power Supply System Basis Chip for Automotive Applications

The increasing complexity of automotive electronic control units (ECUs) demands highly integrated, robust, and efficient power management solutions. Addressing this need, Infineon Technologies introduces the TLE9461-3ES, a System Basis Chip (SBC) engineered to serve as the central power and communication hub for a wide array of automotive applications, particularly in body control modules and gateway systems.

At its core, the TLE9461-3ES is a multi-functional device that consolidates several critical functions into a single package. Its primary role is to provide a stable and regulated power supply for microcontrollers and sensors. It features a primary voltage regulator with a high-voltage input capability, supporting start-stop conditions and load dump scenarios common in the automotive environment. Furthermore, it includes multiple low-dropout (LDO) linear regulators to power peripheral circuits, ensuring clean and reliable voltage rails for sensitive components.

A key strength of this SBC lies in its integrated network interfaces. The chip incorporates a high-speed CAN FD (Flexible Data-Rate) transceiver, which is essential for high-bandwidth communication between ECUs in modern vehicle networks. This allows for efficient data exchange critical for advanced features like over-the-air (OTA) updates and real-time diagnostics. Additionally, an integrated LIN (Local Interconnect Network) transceiver is included for cost-effective communication with local sub-nodes like sensors and actuators, reducing system complexity and component count.

Beyond power and communication, the TLE9461-3ES is designed with functional safety and robustness as paramount considerations. It offers extensive diagnostic and protection features, including over-voltage, under-voltage, and over-temperature monitoring. These features are crucial for developing systems that comply with stringent automotive safety integrity level (ASIL) requirements. The device also includes a watchdog and a fail-safe output mechanism to ensure a safe state is maintained even in the event of a microcontroller failure.

The integration level of the TLE9461-3ES significantly reduces the PCB footprint and overall system cost while enhancing reliability. By replacing multiple discrete components with a single, optimized chip, Infineon provides engineers with a solution that simplifies design, accelerates time-to-market, and meets the demanding quality standards of the automotive industry.

ICGOODFIND: The Infineon TLE9461-3ES is a highly integrated and robust System Basis Chip that excels as a centralized power and communication unit for automotive ECUs. Its combination of multi-channel power supplies, integrated CAN FD and LIN transceivers, and comprehensive safety features makes it an ideal, space-saving solution for enhancing reliability and simplifying design in modern vehicles.

Keywords: System Basis Chip (SBC), Automotive Power Management, CAN FD Transceiver, Functional Safety (ASIL), Integrated Circuit.