STMicroelectronics introduces the compact SO-8W 6kV magnetically isolated high voltage gate driver

     STMicroelectronics has released the compact high voltage gate driver STGAP2HS for applications requiring 6kV electrical isolation between the gate drive side and the low voltage control interface circuit. With a maximum input and pull current of 4A at the output end, this 1200V device simplifies the design of medium and high power converters, power supplies and inverters, and enhances system reliability for industrial equipment such as home appliances and factory automation, fans, electromagnetic heaters, welding machines, and uninterruptible power supplies.

     Manufactured with ST's BCD6s technology, the device features dual input pins that give designers flexibility to control the signal and provides hardware interlock protection to prevent cross-on in the event of a controller failure. The input pin is compatible with a minimum 3.3V CMOS/TTL logic signal for easy connection to the controller. A matched propagation delay between low-voltage circuits prevents cycle distortion, minimizes energy loss, and allows high-frequency operation. Over the entire temperature range from -40°C to 125°C, the common mode transient immunity (CMTI) is ±100V/ns.

     The STGAP2HS output comes in two different configurations. One has separate output pins, and the two pins can use different gate resistors to independently optimize on-off and off-time. The second configuration has only one output pin, and the other is a Miller clamp function that prevents gate voltage spikes during rapid commutation in the half-bridge topology. Each configuration allows designers to use n-channel MOSFET switching tubes in both upper and lower arm circuits, reducing bill of material costs for external components.

     In addition to overheating protection, the STGAP2HS has UVLO protection to prevent the power switch tube from operating in inefficient or dangerous conditions, improving system reliability. Input-output propagation delays of less than 75ns enable accurate pulse width modulation (PWM) control. In addition, the standby mode of the chip helps designers reduce system power consumption.