NXP UJA1167TK: A Comprehensive Overview of the Miniature System Basis Chip for Automotive Networks
The relentless drive towards more connected, autonomous, and electrified vehicles demands robust and highly integrated electronic components. At the heart of many modern automotive network nodes lies the System Basis Chip (SBC), a class of devices that consolidate several critical functions into a single package. The NXP UJA1167TK stands out as a premier example of this integration, offering a miniature, feature-rich solution designed specifically for the harsh environment of automotive networks.
This SBC is engineered to serve as a complete local power supply and communication gateway for microcontrollers (MCUs) in subnets and sensor applications, particularly those based on CAN FD (Flexible Data-Rate) and LIN (Local Interconnect Network) protocols. Its primary role is to manage power, handle network communication, and provide protection, thereby reducing the system's complexity, footprint, and overall cost.
Key Features and Architectural Highlights
The UJA1167TK's architecture is a marvel of miniaturization, packing several essential subsystems into a very small HVQFN32 package.
1. High-Efficiency Voltage Regulators: The chip features a 5.0 V or 3.3 V main voltage regulator with high accuracy, capable of supplying the system microcontroller and other loads. A separate low-power 3.3 V or 5.0 V auxiliary regulator remains active in low-power modes to keep essential circuits alive, enabling features like wake-up via CAN or LIN.
2. Advanced Network Interfaces: It integrates a high-speed CAN FD transceiver, compliant with the latest ISO 11898-2:2016 and ISO 11898-5:2007 standards. This ensures robust and reliable communication at high speeds. Additionally, it includes a LIN transceiver that is compliant with LIN 2.x/SAE J2602 and the newer LIN 2.2A/SAE J2602-1 specifications, making it versatile for various network segments.
3. Superior Robustness and Protection: Designed for the automotive environment, the UJA1167TK offers exceptional electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection and is immune to electromagnetic interference (EMI). It incorporates comprehensive protection features such as undervoltage detection, overtemperature warning and shutdown, and loss of battery detection, safeguarding both the SBC itself and the connected microcontroller.
4. Low-Power Management Modes: A critical requirement for automotive applications, especially those related to battery longevity, is low quiescent current. The chip supports several modes, including a standby mode with very low current consumption (typically 40 μA) and a sleep mode that reduces consumption to just 9 μA typical. This is essential for meeting the stringent quiescent current demands of always-on automotive systems.
Target Applications

The UJA1167TK is ideally suited for a wide array of automotive electronic control units (ECUs), including:
Body Control Modules (BCMs): For controlling windows, lights, and seats.
Sensor and Actuator Nodes: In applications like door modules, smart seat controllers, and climate control systems.
Telematics Boxes (TCUs): For managing connectivity and data communication.
Battery Management Systems (BMS): Especially in low-power monitoring nodes within electric vehicles.
ICGOODFIND Summary: The NXP UJA1167TK is a highly integrated, miniature System Basis Chip that exemplifies the trend towards greater functional density in automotive electronics. It provides a complete, space-efficient solution for power management and network communication (CAN FD/LIN) while offering outstanding robustness and ultra-low power consumption, making it an ideal choice for next-generation automotive network nodes.
Keywords:
1. System Basis Chip (SBC)
2. CAN FD Transceiver
3. Low-Power Management
4. Automotive Networks
5. Voltage Regulator
