16-channel low-side switch array for distributed loads
The NXP MCZ33996EKR2 integrates 16 N-channel low-side switches controlled via a 1:16 SPI interface, each rated for 900 mA continuous output with a typical on-resistance of 550 mOhm. The load supply range spans 5V to 27V, covering 12V and 24V automotive battery rails with headroom for cold-crank dips and load-dump transients. Logic supply runs from 3.1V to 5.5V, so a 3.3V or 5V MCU can drive the SPI bus without external level shifters.
Fault protection suite and diagnostic feedback
Built-in fault protection covers current limiting (fixed), open load detection, overtemperature shutdown, and overvoltage clamping. These protections eliminate the need for external sense resistors, comparators, or clamp diodes on each output channel. The SPI interface returns diagnostic data for each channel — open load, short to battery, overtemperature, and overcurrent — allowing the system controller to log faults and shut down individual loads without a hard reset.
Thermal and package considerations for the board layout
The 32-SSOP package with a 7.50 mm body width and exposed thermal pad (supplier device package 32-SOIC-EP) requires a soldered copper land on the PCB to dissipate heat from the 16 channels. At 900 mA per channel with 550 mOhm Rds(on), the per-channel conduction loss is roughly 0.45 W; with all channels active, the total dissipation exceeds 7 W. Surface-mount assembly follows standard SSOP reflow profiles — no special bake-out required for moisture sensitivity, though the MSL rating should be verified from the lot date code.
Active lifecycle and compliance status
It is ROHS3 compliant.