Infineon BSP297 N-Channel Logic Level Enhancement Mode Power MOSFET: Datasheet, Application Circuit, and Pinout Explanation
The Infineon BSP297 is a robust N-Channel Logic Level Enhancement Mode Power MOSFET engineered for high-efficiency switching applications controlled by low-voltage signals. Its design is optimized for use in various power management circuits, making it a popular choice for designers in industrial, consumer, and computing electronics.
Datasheet Overview and Key Specifications
The datasheet for the BSP297 reveals a component built for performance. Key electrical characteristics include a drain-source voltage (VDS) of 60V and a continuous drain current (ID) of up to 1.8A. A defining feature of this MOSFET is its logic-level compatible gate, characterized by a low gate threshold voltage (VGS(th)) typically around 1.5V. This allows it to be driven directly from 3.3V or 5V microcontrollers, logic ICs, or DSPs without requiring a separate gate driver circuit, simplifying design and reducing component count. Furthermore, it boasts an exceptionally low on-state resistance (RDS(on)) of just 0.5Ω (max. at VGS = 10V), which minimizes conduction losses and improves overall system efficiency, especially in power switching applications.
Pinout Explanation
The BSP297 is offered in the compact and ubiquitous SOT-223 surface-mount package. Its pinout is straightforward:
Pin 1 (Gate): This is the control pin. Applying a voltage above the threshold voltage (relative to the source) turns the MOSFET on, allowing current to flow between the drain and source.
Pin 2 (Drain): This is the output pin for the load. In a typical high-side switch configuration, the load is connected between this pin and the positive supply voltage.
Pin 3 (Source): This pin is connected to ground (in a low-side switch configuration) or to the load (in a high-side configuration). It serves as the common reference for the gate control signal.
Pin 4 (Drain): The SOT-223 package has a large tab that is also the drain. This is internally connected to Pin 2 and provides both electrical connection and a thermal path to dissipate heat from the device into the PCB.
Application Circuit Example: Low-Side Switch
A fundamental and common application for the BSP297 is a low-side switch. In this configuration:
1. The load (e.g., a DC motor, relay, or lamp) is connected between the positive supply voltage (V+) and the Drain pin of the MOSFET.
2. The Source pin is connected directly to ground.
3. The Gate pin is connected to the output of a microcontroller (GPIO pin) through a small series resistor (e.g., 100Ω). This resistor helps dampen any ringing caused by parasitic inductance and gate capacitance.
Operation: When the microcontroller output is set to a logic 'HIGH' (3.3V or 5V), the BSP297 turns on, creating a low-resistance path from drain to source. This completes the circuit, allowing current to flow through the load to ground. When the microcontroller output is 'LOW' (0V), the MOSFET turns off, stopping the current flow. A pull-down resistor (e.g., 10kΩ) from the gate to ground is often added to ensure the MOSFET turns off reliably in case the microcontroller pin is in a high-impedance state during startup or reset.
ICGOODFIND: The Infineon BSP297 is an excellent solution for designers seeking a high-efficiency, logic-level power switch. Its combination of low RDS(on), moderate current handling, and a simple drive requirement makes it exceptionally versatile for a wide array of low-voltage power control tasks, from driving motors and LEDs to managing power rails.
Keywords: Logic Level MOSFET, Low RDS(on), Enhancement Mode, SOT-223, Low-Side Switch
