Higher on-chip CDM levels

CDM is the most important ESD reliability specification, but also the most difficult to reach and to predict. Sofics’ dedicated design approach, based on VF-TLP (very fast Transmission Line Pulser), helps to make CDM more predictable and to achieve the desired levels. A lot of parameters influence the end results (such as die size, package size, air humidity, test (method) used etc.).

500V CDM is routinely met with Sofics’ solutions

EMC protection

For automotive applications such as LIN, EMC compliance must be achieved as well. Very often, the most critical specification is Direct RF Power Injection (DPI - IEC 62132-4). This puts additional constraints on the ESD protection, in particular with regards to the avoidance of transient effects. Sofics' level triggered clamps are specifically designed for this. In the words of Frank Shulze, Business Line, Manager, Sensing and Automotive (ZMDI, now IDT):

"Automotive electronics are exposed to high levels of electrical stress, so ZMDI needs the best available ESD/EOS protection for our products. We ran evaluations of several ESD solutions for chips fabricated in a 0.25um BCD process. PowerQubic clamps were superior in the EMC test, as well as in parameters such as meeting flexible clamping voltage specifications. So, we selected Sofics to provide ESD/EOS protection for a new line of 0.18um devices that will meet our specifications, at a lower cost than building the clamps from scratch."

DPI: 36-39dBm for LIN transceiver – product proven Sofics solution

Complete LIN transceiver PHY

There are several types of networks in cars to allow microcontrollers and devices to communicate with each other in applications without a host computer. LIN (Local Interconnect Network) is a serial network protocol used for communication between components in vehicles. It is typically used for non-safety critical applications, such as (light) sensors, seat positioning motors or even cruise control. As it is connected to the car battery, the supply range is broadly defined (7V-18V). The PHY should be designed to drive a variable load, depending on the number of slaves on the LIN bus. Additionally, the robustness requirements are quite severe; for example, the IC should survive loss of ground or loss of battery, pass high ESD levels and have a well thought out EMC design.
Sofics' LIN transceiver PHY combines all these elements.

Sofics' LIN PHY with built-in on-chip robustness against a myriad of automotive disturbances