Date: 01/12/2008

A new digital driver interface to drive IGBTs

SEMIKRON has introduced a new technology where the digitally programmed signals transmitted over CAN bus will switch/control IGBTs. The concept named "digital driver SKYPER 52" communicates via CAN input/output, providing the optimum interface between controller and power module. As a result, this driver is particularly suitable for use in systems that integrate power semiconductor, cooling, capacitors, driver and controller hardware.

The key advantages of this technology are, high level of signal integrity, and free from interference (EMI immunity). Since voltage variations can thus be optimized the complex filter circuits are not needed. Sequential IGBT turn-off in the event of malfunction is also possible.

SKYPER 52 works with low-voltage differential signal transmission, meaning that the gate driver can process the low-voltage 3.3V and 5V controller signals without the use of a level converter. Immunity to interference signals is thereby improved. The powerful SKYPER 52 driver can be used in applications with currents of up to 9000 A and frequencies of up to 100KHZ. The galvanic isolation between the controller and power modules can withstand voltages of up to 4KV. The digital driver is ROHS-compliant and suitable for 1200 V and 1700 V IGBT modules.

In contrast to analog solutions digital technology offers complex functions. "The demand for easy integration of the gate control into converter solutions and the fusion of driver and controller interfaces confirm the need for a digital control platform," says Johannes Krapp, Product Manager at Semikron.