Development and Application of Microchip's ATA6836C-TIQW LIN System Basis Chip
The ATA6836C-TIQW, developed by Microchip Technology, represents a highly integrated System Basis Chip (SBC) designed to serve as a cornerstone for electronic control units (ECUs) in modern automotive networks. It combines several critical functions into a single package, simplifying design, reducing the component count on the PCB, and enhancing the overall reliability of systems utilizing the Local Interconnect Network (LIN) bus protocol. This chip is engineered to meet the stringent requirements of the automotive industry, including robust performance under harsh operating conditions.
At its core, the ATA6836C-TIQW integrates a LIN 2.2A/SAE J2602 compliant transceiver, which serves as the physical interface for communication on the LIN bus. This ensures reliable data transmission between the LIN master and various slave nodes within a vehicle's body control systems, such as window lifters, seat controllers, sensors, and smart actuators. Alongside the transceiver, the chip features a voltage regulator that provides a stable 5V or 3.3V supply for an associated microcontroller, eliminating the need for an external regulator. Furthermore, it includes three high-side drivers capable of driving loads like LEDs, sensors, or small motors directly, with built-in protection against over-current, short-circuit, and overtemperature conditions. The inclusion of a windowed watchdog and a fail-safe output enhances system security, ensuring the microcontroller operates correctly and can be reset in case of a software hang.
The primary application domain for the ATA6836C-TIQW is the automotive body electronics and convenience systems. Its high level of integration makes it exceptionally suitable for space-constrained modules. For instance, in a smart door module, the SBC can power the microcontroller, communicate with the central body controller via the LIN bus, and directly drive the LEDs for interior lighting or the motor for a central locking mechanism. This consolidation of functionality not only reduces the total system cost but also improves electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) performance. The device's low quiescent current in sleep mode is crucial for meeting modern energy efficiency demands, particularly in applications connected to the vehicle battery that must minimize drain when the ignition is off.
Designing with this SBC significantly accelerates development time. Engineers can leverage a pre-certified LIN interface and power management solution, allowing them to focus on application-specific software rather than complex hardware validation. The robust built-in diagnostics and protection features contribute to achieving higher Automotive Safety Integrity Levels (ASIL) for the overall system, which is increasingly important for functional safety standards like ISO 26262.
ICGOODFIND: The Microchip ATA6836C-TIQW is a highly integrated and robust System Basis Chip that consolidates LIN communication, voltage regulation, and power driving into a single unit. It dramatically simplifies the design of automotive slave nodes, enhances reliability, reduces board space and cost, and is essential for developing efficient and safe body electronics modules.
Keywords: System Basis Chip (SBC), LIN Transceiver, Automotive Electronics, Voltage Regulator, High-Side Drivers.
