One-Sentence Summary (Quick Selection)

• Need high current and want to replace relays/fuses → Choose Infineon Power PROFET + (24/48V) series (very low RDS(on), integrated protection, capable up to 25–60A loads). (Infineon)
• Need smart multi-channel switching with diagnostics and MCU interface (small/medium power channels) → TI TPS4H series / TPS482H85-Q1 is highly competitive (48V support, diagnostics, compact packaging). (Texas Instruments)
• Need external power MOSFET + smart controller architecture → ST’s VNF1048F (controller + external FET) is a popular option for flexibility and scalability. (STMicroelectronics)
• Need high-voltage MOSFET gate driving (up to 80V or above) → onsemi gate-driver and protected switch families are available. (onsemi)

Detailed Comparison Table

Note: Specifications vary significantly by model (channels, integrated MOSFET or external, rated current, and RDS(on)).
The table lists typical ranges and representative devices. Always refer to each device’s datasheet for exact values.

Notes: “Typical current / RDS(on)” and “protection features” are summarized. Refer to specific datasheets for thermal resistance, energy limits, and recommended circuits.

Engineering Selection Guidelines

1. Decide Whether You Need an Integrated MOSFET or a Controller + External MOSFET Architecture

Integrated Smart High-Side Solution

• Simplifies PCB design.
• Built-in protections/diagnostics.
• Thermal design becomes critical due to single-package power density.
• Good for low/medium/high current depending on model (Infineon offers up to 60A).

Controller + External Power MOSFET

• Extremely flexible and scalable.
• Allows selecting ultra-low-RDS(on) MOSFETs for better thermal efficiency.
• More complex PCB + gate drive responsibility.
• Best for very high current or cost-optimized designs.

2. RDS(on) & Thermal Considerations

In 48V systems, currents can be high (e.g., motor loads or heaters).
Power loss = I² × RDS(on) becomes critical.

For relay replacement:
Prefer devices with explicitly rated 25A/35A/60A continuous load capability.

3. Protection & Diagnostics Requirements

Modern automotive smart-switch devices include:

• OCP (Over-Current Protection)
• Short-Circuit Protection
• OVP/UVLO
• Over-temperature shutdown
• Reverse-current blocking
• Fault reporting or SPI/I²C diagnostic channels

If used in domain controllers or intelligent fuse boxes, select devices with SPI/I²C diagnostics.

4. Automotive Certification (AEC-Q, ISO 26262)

Prefer devices labeled:

• AEC-Q100 / Q1
• Automotive-grade product series
• ISO 26262 documentation or ASIL support, if required

5. EMI, Load-Dump, Surge

48V systems demand strict handling of:

• Load-dump,
• Transient surge,
• ESD,
• Recommended external protection (TVS diodes, RC snubbers).

Vendor application notes provide validated reference circuits.

Typical Applications & Recommendations

• Automotive Power Distribution

(Heaters, pumps, fans, relays, small motors)
→ Use smart switches such as Infineon PROFET+ or TI TPS4H series.

• Large 48V Motor Loads / High Current Lines

→ Usually built with controller + low-RDS(on) external MOSFET,
or Infineon’s higher-power PROFET if the rated current fits.

• Zone/Body/ADAS Controller Sub-loads

→ TI smart switches (compact QFN packages, rich diagnostics) are ideal.