Power Integrations a leading innovator in high-voltage integrated circuits for energy-efficient power conversion, has announced the introduction of a new wide-creepage package option for its InnoSwitch™3-AQ flyback switcher IC, specifically designed for automotive applications. This new package offers a wide drain-to-source pin creepage distance of 5.1 mm, which eliminates the need for conformal coating. This design improvement ensures compliance with the IEC60664-1 standard for 800 V automotive systems while streamlining manufacturing processes and enhancing overall system reliability.
Mike Stroka, a product marketing engineer at Power Integrations, highlighted the significance of the new design: “Automotive designers rely on the efficiency and low component count of high-voltage power supplies designed around InnoSwitch3-AQ ICs. The increased primary-to-primary creepage and clearance distance between the drain and source pins in the new package provides support for the next generation of EV bus voltages. Power Integrations’ unique InSOP™-28G package enables 1000 VDC to be provided to the primary side, while keeping all other pins safely isolated in pollution degree 2 environments.”
The InnoSwitch3-AQ family of switching power supply ICs features a 1700 V-rated constant-voltage/constant-current (CV/CC) capability. These ICs incorporate a silicon carbide (SiC) primary switch capable of delivering up to 80 watts of output power. This high level of integration reduces the component count required to implement a power supply by as much as 50 percent. Consequently, this saves valuable space within the system, enhances reliability, and mitigates challenges related to component sourcing. Additionally, the increased drain-pin width improves the IC’s ability to withstand high levels of shock and vibration, making it particularly advantageous for demanding eAxle automotive applications.
One of the standout features of the new InnoSwitch3-AQ ICs is their ability to start up with as little as 30 volts on the drain without the need for external circuitry. This capability is critical for ensuring functional safety in automotive systems. The ICs are equipped with a range of protective features, including input under-voltage, output over-voltage, and over-current limiting. Furthermore, the devices utilize synchronous rectification and a multi-mode flyback controller that supports valley switching, discontinuous conduction mode (DCM), and continuous conduction mode (CCM). These design elements deliver efficiency levels exceeding 90 percent. Additionally, the ICs consume less than 15 milliwatts in no-load conditions, ensuring energy efficiency even during idle states.
The target applications for the new InnoSwitch3-AQ ICs include battery management systems, micro DC-DC converters, control circuits, and emergency power supplies within main traction inverters. The enhanced functionality for remote on/off operation adds further versatility to the ICs, making them suitable for a wide range of automotive power management scenarios.
The introduction of the wide-creepage package option underscores Power Integrations’ commitment to addressing the evolving needs of the automotive industry. By supporting the next generation of electric vehicle (EV) bus voltages and meeting stringent safety standards, the company’s innovations continue to advance the adoption of energy-efficient and reliable power solutions in automotive systems.
Availability and Pricing
The new 1700 V-rated InnoSwitch3-AQ switching power supply ICs are available for sampling now, with full production expected to commence in the first quarter of 2025. Pricing starts at $6 per unit for orders of 10,000 units or more. For additional details, customers can contact Power Integrations directly, reach out to authorized distributors such as DigiKey, Newark, Mouser, and RS Components, or visit the company’s official website at power.com.
The introduction of these advanced ICs is poised to simplify the design and manufacturing of automotive power supplies while enhancing the reliability and efficiency of electric vehicles. With features tailored to meet the demanding requirements of modern automotive systems, Power Integrations’ InnoSwitch3-AQ family sets a new benchmark for high-voltage power management solutions.
