A new switcher IC developed promises enhanced reliability and efficiency for 800V electric vehicles, eliminating the need for complex manufacturing steps.
Power Integrations, a company specialising in high-voltage integrated circuits (IC), have developed a 1700V-rated InnoSwitch 3-AQ flyback switcher IC. This innovation, specifically designed for 800V automotive systems, meets the stringent IEC60664-1 isolation standard. The IC simplifies manufacturing, enhances reliability, and eliminates the need for conformal coating, thanks to its wide creepage distance of 5.1mm.
The switcher IC uses a silicon carbide (SiC) primary switch capable of delivering up to 80W of output power. According to Mike Stroka, product marketing engineer at the company, the enhanced creepage and clearance distance between the drain and source pins make this IC suitable for the next generation of electric vehicle (EV) bus voltages. He noted, “Automotive designers rely on the efficiency and low component count of high-voltage power supplies designed around new switcher ICs.”
This compact design, housed in the innovative InSOP-28G package, reduces the number of components required for power supply systems by nearly 50%, leading to substantial space savings and improved system reliability. With its ability to withstand high shock and vibration levels, the IC is particularly suited for eAxle automotive applications. Its robust features make it an ideal choice for automotive manufacturers, EV component suppliers, and engineers working on battery management systems and control circuits.
Key features include its ability to start with just 30V on the drain without external circuitry, essential for functional safety. Integrated protection mechanisms such as input under-voltage, output over-voltage, and over-current limiting are included, alongside a synchronous rectifier and multi-mode switching capabilities. This results in efficiency exceeding 90% while consuming less than 15mW during no-load conditions.
Target applications for the IC also extend to emergency power supplies in EV traction inverters, where its support for remote on/off functionality adds operational flexibility. Production is slated to begin in early 2025. This advancement marks a significant step toward robust and efficient power solutions for the expanding EV market.
