The SA110 is Apex Microtechnology’s first high current, high voltage half H-bridge to combine silicon carbide (SiC) MOSFETs with a gate drive in a single module device. This hybrid switching amplifier also features digital gate driver control, a very high 400 kHz MAX switching frequency, and 28 A of continuous output current.
The use of SiC technology can potentially impact a hybrid’s bill of materials, but any increase in cost will most likely be offset by a significant increase in performance. This includes reduced switching losses, lower conduction losses, and a low temperature dependency of RDS(on) over a wide operating temperature range. SiC MOSFETs also provide a reduction in power loss compared to the more commonly used silicon or IGBT options. By integrating the gate drive, switching behavior is greatly improved as parasitic impacts are reduced and easier to control.
“The use of SiC MOSFETs in the SA110 represents an exciting first for Apex hybrid designers and our customers,” explains Apex Strategic Marketing Director Jens Eltze. “We believe any potential uptick in the cost of the device will be more than compensated by the impressive increase in performance and reliability, as well as lower costs for cooling the components. This combination of SiC MOSFETs with integrated gate drive and control logic will shorten design cycle times and save on valuable board real estate for our customers.”
The SA110 can operate off supply voltages up to 400 volts and features a typical switching frequency of 250 kHz, with a maximum frequency of 400 kHz. This hybrid is offered in a 12-pin PSIP package to provide a very compact footprint and is designed with under voltage lockout protection and active Miller clamping.
A wide range of target applications include sonar, brushless DC motor drives and DC/AC inverters in the
industrial, avionics, and military markets.
Pricing, Availability and Evaluation Tools
The SA110 is sampling now for qualified applications, with production volumes targeted for late Q1 2019. Per unit pricing is available by contacting a local Apex sales representative or distributor.