New Industry Products

National Semiconductor Introduces New SolarMagic ICs for Microinverter, Power Optimizer and Charge Controller Systems

March 13, 2011 by Jeff Shepard

National Semiconductor Corp. introduced ten new SolarMagic™ integrated circuits (ICs), the first in a series developed to reduce cost, improve reliability and simplify design of photovoltaic (PV) systems. Ranging from what the company says is the industry’s first full-bridge gate driver to a micropower voltage regulator, the new ICs are well-suited for a variety of photovoltaic electronic applications, including those found in microinverters, power optimizers, charge controllers and panel safety systems.

"National now offers an extensive portfolio of analog and mixed signal ICs that provide manufacturers of microinverters with the robust, renewable energy grade ICs they need to ensure long-term operation," said Bill Mazotti, Solar IC Business Unit Director at National. "National’s solutions for the photovoltaic space now include components for power optimizers, microinverters and inverters."

The new SolarMagic ICs are said to be the first developed to meet photovoltaic renewable energy-grade qualification requirements. Each IC is engineered specifically for demanding rooftop environments that range from extreme cold to severe heat, and each passes rigorous testing with enhanced reliability specific to solar requirements. In addition, the ICs ensure long-term operation, developed to meet and exceed the 25-year life expectancy of photovoltaic modules.

Collectively provided as a complete design, SolarMagic ICs increase energy harvest, reduce cost per kilowatt-hour and improve safety in junction boxes and other types of enclosures. Used independently, the ICs provide high voltage and high current gate drive for microinverter or power optimizer designs.

A full set of reference designs and application notes help the designer quickly develop a complete photovoltaic system. Each reference design includes an evaluation board, bill of materials and schematic, which can be downloaded on the company website.

National’s 10 new SolarMagic ICs are available now in a variety of industry-standard electronic packages. Priced in quantities of 1,000, the ICs range from $0.50 to $4.10.