DC-DC converters optimised for high-voltage gate driver applications

Murata has added a new series of surface mount DC-DC converters. Comprising nine different models, the lightweight units in the MGJ2 series each have a 2 W power rating and are supplied in compact, low-profile form factor modules with 19.49mm x 14.99mm x 4.39mm dimensions. They are designed to accompany the IGBT and SiC-based MOSFET high-voltage gate drivers employed in industrial, renewable energy and mobility applications. Offered in input versions that accommodate the commonly used 5V (in development), 12V and 15V voltage rails, they feature +15V/-5V, +15V/-9V and +20V/-5V bipolar outputs.

The new converters display an ultra-low isolation capacitance of only 3pF (typical). This assists them to mitigate the coupling of transients over the isolation barrier and stop EMI issues from happening due to circulating currents generated by high-frequency signals. Their characterised partial discharge performance indicates that elevated levels of operation can be sustained despite the exacting nature of the high-voltage applications they will be employed in. Likewise, the CMTI, which exceeds 200kV/µs, enables them to deal with high switching frequencies.

Other key attributes of the units incorporate a continuous barrier that withstands voltage that attains 2.5kV (also tested to cope with 5.7kVDC for one minute), plus 9mm creepage and clearance separation distances. An extended operational temperature range of -40C to +100C is supported, and they include built-in short circuit protection mechanisms, too. UL62368 compliance (for 250VAC reinforced insulation) has already been secured, with ANSI/AAMI ES60601-1 certification currently pending.

These DC-DC converters are designed for implementation within industrial motor drives, solar and wind turbine inverters (UPSs and fast EV charging stations.