Digital isolators are qualified for electric-hybrid
27 May 2008
Analog Devices has introduced the iCoupler, claimed to be the first digital isolators qualified to AEC-Q100.
The isolators meet AEC-Q100’s requirements for quality and reliability for electric-hybrid vehicles. They are qualified for operation in the –40°C to 125°C, the automotive temperature rating. Hybrid-electric vehicles can operate at voltages in excess of 600V, which requires the use of galvanically isolated system-critical electronics, unlike those used in relatively low-voltage signals powering most in-car entertainment and safety systems. Previously, the only isolation available was an optocoupler, which have difficulties at temperatures over 105°C. The isolators replace the optocouplers and their limitations at 90 per cent less power consumption, according to the company.
The AduM120xW, AduM130xW and AduM140xW are specifically for motor drives and battery management systems in hybrid cars. The two-channel Adu120xW, three-channel AduM130xW and four-channel Adu140xW are based on the company’s proprietary iCoupler chipscale micro-transformer technology. The isolators provide multiple isolation channels and channel configurations, with data rates up to 25Mbit/sec. The CMOS-based parts operate with the supply voltage from 3V to 5.5V, making them compatible with lower voltage systems as well as enabling voltage translation across the isolation barrier.
The isolators, claims the company, have an advantage over optocouplers, which can experience performance degradation and wear at high temperatures. Instead, they are described as relatively insensitive to temperature and demonstrate long-term reliability. The digital interface, means that there is no need for external signal conditioning components. The isolators consumer up to 10 per cent of the power of optocouplers at comparable signal data rates, according to the company.
The isolators are available in eight-lead narrow body or 16-lead wide body SOIC packages.
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