Versatile gate drivers for SiC and IGBT modules with fast short-circuit protection

Power Integrations has released a new family of plug-and-play gate drivers for 62mm SiC MOSFET and silicon IGBT modules rated up to 1700V, with enhanced protection features to ensure safe, reliable operation. SCALE-2 2SP0230T2x0 dual-channel gate drivers deploy short-circuit protection in less than two microseconds, protecting the compact SiC MOSFETs against damaging over-currents. The new drivers also include AAC to protect the switches against over-voltage during turn-off, allowing higher DC link operating voltages.

Thorsten Schmidt, product marketing manager at Power Integrations, commented: "The 2SP0230T2x0 gate drivers are flexible; the same hardware can be used to drive either SiC MOSFET or IGBT modules. This reduces both system design and sourcing challenges, and the plug-and-play approach speeds development."

Ideal for applications, including railway auxiliary converters, offboard EV chargers and STATCOM voltage regulators for the power grid, 2SP0230T2x0 gate drivers are based on the company's proven SCALE-2 technology, resulting in higher levels of integration, smaller size, more functionality and enhanced system reliability. The compact 134mm x 62mm device provides reinforced isolation at 1700V, allowing use for up to 1700V operation; this is 500V higher than conventional drivers, typically limited to 1200V.