Powerex Inc. (Youngwood, PA) introduced its new VLA500 and VLA502 hybrid integrated circuits, which are designed for driving n-channel IGBT modules in any gate-amplifier application. The devices have been designed to include the isolated dc-dc converter that is normally required externally for the gate drive. The inclusion of the dc-dc converter reduces the design-in time and the circuit complexity.
The VLA500 is designed to drive standard IGBT modules, and is optimized for use with the Powerex NF Series Carrier Stored Trench gate Bipolar Transistor IGBT. The VLA502 is designed to drive high-frequency IGBT modules, and is optimized for use with the Powerex NFH Series Carrier Stored Trench gate Bipolar Transistor IGBT. The VLA502 provides a maximum 700ns switching speed for driving high-frequency NFH Series IGBTs. Both the VLA500 and VLA502 feature a built-in, isolated dc-dc converter for gate drive; an SIP outline for reduction in space required for mounting; a built-in, short-circuit protection with fault output; variable fall time upon activation of the short-circuit protection; 2,500Vrms isolation between input and output; and TTL compatible input.
Samples are available from stock to four weeks and production quantities are available within 8 to 12 weeks. Sample pricing is $38 for the VLA500 and $42 for the VLA502.
