1200 V Dual-Channel Gate-Driver Eliminates Opto-Couplers

Power Integrations has introduced its 2SC0115T2A0-12 dual-channel gate-driver core for 90 to 500 kW inverters and converters. Leveraging SCALE™-2+ integrated circuit and isolated transformer technology for DC/DC power and switching signal transmission, the new driver core improves system reliability and performance by eliminating the need for an opto-coupler. The driver core's reinforced electrical isolation targets systems with a working voltage of 900 V, which is typical for 1200 V IGBT modules and complies with the PD2 and OV II requirements of IEC 60664-1 and IEC 61800-5-1. The 2SC0115TA0-12 gate-driver core supports modules up to 2400 A and switching frequencies of up to 50 kHz.

With a footprint of 53 x 31 mm and a 13-mm profile, the 2SC0115TA0-12 gate-driver core is the most compact industrial unit of its type available. The highly integrated SCALE-2+ chipset includes short-circuit protection by Vce-sat monitoring and independent supply-voltage monitoring from both the primary and secondary side. The new gate-driver core includes Soft Shut Down (SSD) protection for applications with low stray-inductance. For more demanding environments the 2SC0115TA0-12 supports full Advanced Active Clamping (AAC) to control the IGBT voltage overshoot during turn-off.

Each of the two output channels is electrically isolated from the primary side and the other secondary channel. An output current of ±15 A and 1.2 W drive power is available per channel with a gate voltage swing of +15 V to -6 V. The turn-on voltage is regulated to maintain a stable 15 V regardless of the output power level.