New isolation technology maximises power efficiency and minimises emissions

Analog Devices now offers a simple power solution that maximises efficiency and minimises electromagnetic emissions of motion systems as clients move to higher density automation. The ADuM4122 is an isolated, dual-drive strength output driver that uses iCoupler technology to empower designers to harness the advantages of higher efficiency power switch technologies.

Electric motor-driven systems account for 40% of global electricity consumption, the International Energy Agency says, and advances in motor efficiency can have broad-reaching economic and environmental benefits. With the improved adoption of industrial automation and IoT within smart factories, there is an increasing need for intelligent technology and highlights within systems to assure maximum efficiency. The device is the first simple solution that achieves this by controlling how fast or slow a MOSFET or IGBT turns on or off by user command, on the fly, which controls motor currents.

“Flexibility and efficiency are two key tenets of a secure, connected enterprise. Previously, the typical solution was to choose a gate driver strength that would enable adherence to EM system regulations at all operating points, meaning systems were often over-engineered and under-utilized,” said Mack Lund, director of Interface and Isolation Technology Group at Analog Devices. “Now, users can dynamically move from a slower to a faster switching transition, thus optimizing EM emissions without sacrificing efficiency. In short, you no longer have to leave performance on the table when trying to achieve lower emissions and power consumption.”

The device further enhances system abilities with high common-mode transient immunity and low propagation delay for high-performance applications including motion control, robotics and energy.