Power Integrations Targets 800V Automotive Applications with Wide-Creepage Switcher IC

As the automotive industry moves toward higher voltage systems to support advanced electric vehicles (EVs) and their expanding power demands, innovative solutions are necessary to meet safety standards and enhance system reliability. Power Integrations has addressed these needs with its new 1700V-rated InnoSwitch™3-AQ flyback switcher IC, featuring a wide-creepage package designed specifically for 800V automotive applications.

The introduction of this wide-creepage switcher marks a significant step forward in power conversion for electric vehicles, providing automotive designers with a robust, efficient, and compact power supply solution that meets the stringent IEC60664-1 isolation standard without requiring additional protective coatings.

A Leap in High-Voltage Isolation

The standout feature of the new InnoSwitch3-AQ IC is its wide drain-to-source-pin creepage distance of 5.1mm, which eliminates the need for conformal coating. This simplifies the manufacturing process while improving system reliability, making it an ideal choice for next-generation 800V EV bus voltages.

The IC is housed in Power Integrations’ unique InSOP™-28G package, which supports up to 1000VDC on the primary side while maintaining safe isolation for other pins in pollution degree 2 environments. This innovation ensures safety and durability, even in harsh automotive conditions.

Optimized for Automotive Applications

The InnoSwitch3-AQ switcher IC incorporates a silicon carbide (SiC) primary switch, delivering up to 80W of output power with outstanding efficiency. Its advanced features include:

• High integration, reducing component count by up to 50%, which saves space and minimizes sourcing challenges.
• Shock and vibration resistance, enabled by an increased drain-pin width, making it suitable for demanding applications like eAxle systems.
• Wide input range, with startup voltages as low as 30V on the drain without requiring external circuitry, crucial for functional safety.

With greater than 90% efficiency, the IC also features synchronous rectification, a multi-mode flyback controller (DCM/CCM), and protection against input under-voltage, output over-voltage, and over-current scenarios.

Versatile Use Cases

Designed to support a broad range of automotive applications, the InnoSwitch3-AQ IC targets:

• Battery Management Systems: Powering the critical electronics that monitor and maintain battery performance.
• µDC-DC Converters: Compact power solutions for auxiliary systems.
• Control Circuits: Reliable power for electronics that manage EV operations.
• Emergency Power Supplies: Ensuring backup power in main traction inverters.

Additionally, the IC includes enhanced functionality for remote on/off switching, providing greater control and flexibility for system designers.

Enhancing Efficiency and Reliability

By leveraging a wide-creepage design, Power Integrations has ensured that its new IC not only meets the demands of higher voltage systems but also reduces the complexity of traditional designs. This approach increases reliability, simplifies assembly, and aligns with the growing need for compact, energy-efficient components in 800V EV platforms.

Availability

The 1700V-rated InnoSwitch3-AQ switcher IC is available now for sampling, with full production expected in the first quarter of 2025. Pricing starts at $6 per unit for orders of 10,000 units.

For more information, visit power.com or contact authorized distributors, including DigiKey, Newark, Mouser, and RS Components.

This innovation represents a significant advancement in automotive power electronics, supporting the ongoing evolution of EV technology and paving the way for a more efficient, reliable, and electrified future.