Stepper motors can be configured for unipolar or bipolar drive; each approach has different performance attributes and tradeoffs. Stepper motors are widely used, and, as with so many basic components, they are simple in some ways but also have multiple configurations and operating subtleties. For steppers (the “motor” part of the two-word term is often […]
Power Electronic Tips
Reference design covers Class-D amplifier and companion power supply
GaN is being embraced in audio, enabling companies to launch better sounding, higher-performance, smaller, and more eye-catching audio systems. And GaN Systems is making it easier to reap the benefits of GaN with the introduction of the GeN2 Amplifier and SMPS Reference Design. GaN Systems released the GeN2 amplifier and companion power supply reference design […]
Demo board converts 12 Vdc to 500-W 48 Vdc
EPC announces the availability of the EPC9166, a 500 W DC-DC demo board that converts a 12 V input to 48 V output. The EPC9166 demo board demonstrates the Renesas ISL81807 80 V two-phase synchronous boost controller with the latest generation EPC2218 eGaN FETs from EPC to achieve greater than 96.5% efficiency in a 12 […]
Active-clamp flyback reference design speeds fast charger apps
Silanna Semiconductor has launched a new active clamp flyback (ACF)-based reference design that simplifies and speeds the development of 33W 1C fast charger applications built using silicon power FETs. Featuring the company’s latest SZ1131 CO2 Smart Power ACF controller technology, the Silanna Semiconductor RD-23 provides a route to delivering a performance that matches or exceeds […]
Power FET/driver/logic-input ICs operate at 700 V
Navitas Semiconductor announced that its GaNFast power ICs with GaNSense technology has been upgraded to increase efficiency, power density, and access to additional fast-charger markets. GaN is a next-generation semiconductor technology that runs up to 20x faster than legacy silicon and enables up to 3x more power, 40% energy savings, and 3x faster charging in […]
NEMA receptacles now with expanded IDC options
SCHURTER introduces a new version of its NR010 series NEMA 5-15R Receptacles, with IDC terminals for bussing insulated wires perpendicular to the Pin-Axis. The new version completes the range with both vertical and horizontal bussed wire options. All three terminals L, N & E can be bussed, or other variations thereof such as IDC for […]
The case for AEC-Q semiconductors in non-automotive uses
Specifying parts built in AEC-Q-certified fabs is an inexpensive way of creating exceptionally reliable, long-lasting designs. Kevin Parmenter, Taiwan Semiconductor USA Electronic components used in vehicles must have a AEC-Q100 qualification; this qualification means the device has passed specific stress tests and guarantees a certain level of quality/reliability. Of course, reliability is increasingly important in […]
What are voltage rail splitters and virtual grounds for batteries and PFCs?
Rail splitters are usually associated with battery-powered devices, but that’s not always the case. There are several definitions of a “rail splitter,” sometimes referred to as a “virtual ground” or “pseudo ground.” The most common meaning is creating a new “0V” reference point, usually the mid-point Vin/2 of a single supply voltage such as a […]
Automotive boost controller shrinks Class-D audio amp space by more than a third
Analog Devices, Inc. introduced a highly efficient multi-phase synchronous boost controller that regulates high-power Class-D amplifiers in automotive infotainment systems. The MAX25203 features both programmable gate drive voltage and current limit blanking time, as well as accurate current balancing, and operates at a high switching frequency to reduce the bill of materials cost and shrink PCB […]
Compact contactors handle up to 250 A dc, 1,000 Vdc
TDK Corporation has extended its range of bipolar DC high-voltage contactors to include the new HVC43 (B88269X3**0C011) series. These products complete the existing range by offering continuous currents from 150 A DC to 250 A DC and operating voltages of up to 1000 V DC. The contactors are available in 12 V or 24 V […]