Microchip introduces a new solution to make electric vehicle charger design easier

     The drive to decarbonize requires sustainable emission reduction solutions, and the market for battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) continues to grow in tandem. On-board chargers are one of the key applications for electric vehicles, converting alternating current to direct current to charge high-voltage batteries in cars. Microchip Technology announced the introduction of in-car Charger (OBC) solutions using a selection of automotive grade digital, analog, connectivity, and power devices, including the dsPIC33C Digital Signal Controller (DSC), MCP14C1 isolated SiC gate driver, and mSiC™ MOSFETs. In industry-standard D2PAK-7L XL package.

     The solution is designed to improve the efficiency and reliability of OBC systems by leveraging the advanced control capabilities of the dsPIC33 DSC, the high-voltage enhanced isolation and strong noise resistance of the MCP14C1 gate driver, and the low switching losses and improved thermal management capabilities of the mSiC MOSFETs. To further simplify customers' supply chains, Microchip provides key technologies that support OBC's other capabilities, including communication interfaces, security, sensors, memory, and timing.

     To accelerate system development and testing, Microchip offers flexible, programmable solutions that include ready-to-use software modules such as power factor correction (PFC), DC-DC conversion, communication, and diagnostic algorithms. The software modules in the dsPIC33 DSC are designed to optimize performance, efficiency, and reliability while providing flexibility for customization and adaptation to specific OEM requirements.

     Joe Thomsen, Microchip's vice president of Digital Signal Controllers, said: "Microchip has formed the E-Mobility megatream team, equipped with dedicated resources to support this growing market. In addition to providing control, gate drive and power levels for the OBC, we also provide connectivity, timing, sensors, memory and security solutions for our customers. As a leading supplier to Oems and Tier 1 suppliers, Microchip offers comprehensive solutions to streamline development processes, including automotion-grade compliant products, reference designs, software, and global technical support."