The Elmos System-Basis-Chip E523.01 controls controls six relays either low-side or high-side driven or five bistable relays (activation in sequential order). The relay holding current can be programmed by the external micro-controller via the PWM input pins. The IC provides a LIN 2.x(1.3), SAE-J2602 compliant communication interface or PWM-interface with error feedback capability, which can be accessed by an external micro-controller. Also integrated functions are, system power supply (3.3V or 5V selectable) for an external μC and an independent window-watchdog.
The IC is configured and controlled over an SPI interface together with one PWM input pin for each relay driver. A set of diagnostic functions is provided, the status information can be read out via SPI. The LIN interface supports a “FLASH Mode” for fast upload of new firmware to the external micro- controller. For fast time-to-market Elmos provides demoboards as well as design-in support.