Microchip ATA6624C-PGQW-1: A LIN System Basis Chip for Automotive Network Interfaces

The increasing complexity of modern vehicle electronics demands robust and reliable communication networks. Within this ecosystem, the Local Interconnect Network (LIN) bus remains a cornerstone for cost-effective communication between sensors, actuators, and other intelligent nodes. The Microchip ATA6624C-PGQW-1 stands out as a highly integrated System Basis Chip (SBC) specifically engineered to serve as the primary interface for these LIN sub-networks, providing a compact and powerful solution for automotive designers.

This device integrates several critical functions into a single 32-pin VQFN package. At its core, the ATA662C-PGQW-1 features a LIN 2.2A / SAE J2602 compliant transceiver, which ensures robust and error-free serial communication over the LIN bus. This transceiver is designed to operate seamlessly within the harsh environment of an automobile, exhibiting excellent electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) and high electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection, thereby enhancing the overall reliability of the network.

Beyond the transceiver, the chip’s “system basis” nature is its key advantage. It incorporates a 5V/100mA low-dropout voltage regulator (LDO). This regulator can power an external microcontroller or other local circuitry, simplifying power supply design and reducing the total component count on the PCB. Furthermore, the device includes a window watchdog and a high-voltage wake-up input capability. The watchdog is crucial for monitoring the microcontroller's activity, ensuring it operates correctly and triggering a reset in case of a software malfunction—a vital feature for functional safety. The wake-up input allows the node to be roused from a low-power sleep mode by specific events on the LIN bus or a digital input, which is essential for supporting modern energy-saving requirements in automotive applications.

The ATA6624C-PGQW-1 is designed to operate across the demanding automotive voltage range of 5.5V to 27V, with the ability to handle load-dump transients up to 40V. Its operational temperature range of -40°C to 150°C ensures performance under the hood in the most extreme conditions. Typical applications include body control modules, smart sensors, lighting controls, and door modules, wherever a local, low-speed network is required.

ICGOOODFIND: The Microchip ATA6624C-PGQW-1 is an exemplary System Basis Chip that significantly reduces system complexity and board space by integrating a LIN transceiver, voltage regulator, and watchdog timer. Its robust design and automotive-grade qualification make it an ideal, reliable choice for simplifying and enhancing LIN network nodes in vehicle applications.

Keywords: LIN Transceiver, System Basis Chip, Automotive Networking, Voltage Regulator, Watchdog Timer.