Microchip ATA663254-GBQW: A Highly Integrated LIN System Basis Chip for Automotive Networks

The relentless drive towards greater vehicle electrification and smarter electronic control units (ECUs) demands robust and cost-effective communication networks. While CAN remains the backbone for high-speed critical data, the Local Interconnect Network (LIN) bus is indispensable as a complementary standard for managing low-speed sub-systems like sensors, actuators, and smart switches. At the heart of these LIN nodes lies a critical component: the System Basis Chip (SBC). Microchip's ATA663254-GBQW stands out as a premier example of a highly integrated SBC designed to simplify and enhance these automotive network applications.

This device exemplifies high integration by combining several key functions into a single 5x5 mm 32-pin QFN package. It features a LIN transceiver compliant with the latest LIN 2.x, SAE J2602, and ISO 17987-4 standards, ensuring robust and reliable serial communication. Beyond the transceiver, the chip integrates a 3.3 V or 5 V, 80 mA low-dropout voltage regulator (LDO) to power a local microcontroller or other logic, alongside a second 5 V, 80 mA LDO for sensors or other peripherals. This eliminates the need for multiple discrete components, saving valuable board space and reducing system cost and complexity.

A defining characteristic of the ATA663254-GBQW is its focus on robustness and electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), which are non-negotiable in the harsh automotive environment. The LIN bus pin is designed to be highly resistant to transients, capable of handling ±45 V load dump surges and ±8 kV ESD strikes (IEC 61000-4-2). Furthermore, it offers excellent EMC performance, minimizing electromagnetic emissions and ensuring immunity to interference, which is crucial for passing stringent automotive qualification tests like AEC-Q100.

The chip also incorporates sophisticated power management and fail-safe features. It includes a window watchdog and a fail-safe output to monitor the microcontroller and place the system into a safe state if a fault is detected. With very low current consumption in sleep mode (typ. 12 µA), it is perfectly suited for power-sensitive nodes that must wake up upon a LIN bus command or a local wake-up signal, contributing to overall vehicle energy efficiency.

In application, the ATA663254-GBQW is the ideal foundation for any LIN cluster node, from door modules and seat controllers to intelligent sensor blocks and lighting systems. Its high level of integration allows designers to develop smaller, more reliable ECUs with a simplified bill of materials and accelerated time-to-market.

ICGOODFIND: The Microchip ATA663254-GBQW is a highly capable and robust LIN System Basis Chip that masterfully integrates a LIN transceiver, dual LDOs, and comprehensive protection features. It provides a single-chip solution for space-constrained automotive networking applications, significantly enhancing reliability while reducing system cost and design complexity.

Keywords: LIN Transceiver, System Basis Chip (SBC), Automotive Networks, High Integration, AEC-Q100.