Infineon Employs Coreless Transformer Technology for Solid-State Isolation Devices
The latest product range from Infineon employs a coreless transformer design to accelerate switching speeds and slash power losses by up to 70%.
Infineon has unveiled a new series of solid-state isolators (iSSI) that incorporate coreless transformer technology for boosted performance and efficiency. Let’s explore this fresh lineup and understand the advantages and mechanisms of solid-state isolators.
Infineon’s coreless transformers. Image used courtesy of Infineon
Infineon Introduces Advanced Solid-State Isolators
Infineon's fresh collection of solid-state isolators (datasheet available) is engineered to enable quicker and more dependable circuit switching. Compared to traditional optical solid-state relays (SSR), these devices come with an array of enhanced protection features, as per the manufacturer.
For instance, the current introduction of solid-state isolators facilitates an energy transfer rate that is 20 times higher than their forerunners. They also deliver an RDS(on) that is 50 times lower than the current optical-controlled alternatives, paving the way for their use in high-voltage, high-power situations. Additionally, Infineon highlights that the iSSIs outshine electromagnetic relays in terms of performance and reliability by forgoing any mechanical parts, which translates to a 40% reduction in turn-on power.
Block diagram of the iSSI20R11H. Image used courtesy of Infineon
Infineon asserts that its new iSSI collection is compatible with other elements in its switching product range, such as CoolMOS S7, OptiMOS, and linear FET collections. When used in conjunction with Infineon’s CoolMOS S7 switch, the isolator drivers promote designs that feature appreciably lower resistance than those driven optically. This results in systems that are not only longer-lasting but also cost less to own. In scenarios where the gates of Infineon’s MOS-controlled power transistors are driven, power loss can be curtailed by as much as 70% in comparison to traditional solid-state relays utilizing SCR and Triac technology.
Infineon's solid-state isolators facilitate bespoke solid-state relay designs capable of handling over 1,000 volts and 100 amps. This feature, along with the device's coreless transformer design, renders the isolators exceptionally suitable for progressive battery management systems, energy storage mechanisms, renewable energy infrastructures, and industrial and building automation systems.
Solid-State Isolators: The Cornerstone of Contemporary Designs
Solid-state isolators are crucial for blocking unwelcome electrical current feedback in diverse systems. By leveraging solid-state electronics like semiconductors, they endorse a unidirectional current flow—vital for ensuring signal integrity in applications from signal processing to power supply construction.
At the heart of solid-state isolators lies the principle of electronic insulation through semiconductor materials. Moving away from mechanical relays or optoisolators that rely on physical action or optical means to achieve insulation, solid-state isolators use electronic elements that eliminate the need for moving parts. This method greatly bolsters reliability and cuts down on response times. Want to stop high-voltage spikes while letting through the intended signal or power? Isolators can do so efficiently via capacitive or magnetic coupling within the semiconductor material.
An example of electrical isolation.
When compared to conventional mechanical relays or optoisolators, the benefits of solid-state isolators are clear. Their absence of moving parts leads to less wear and tear, a longer life, and more reliability. These components also facilitate swift response times, crucial for rapid signal processing tasks. Moreover, in terms of size, energy conservation, and interference immunity, they lead to better performance, making them ideal for small and sensitive electronic devices.
Crucially, solid-state isolators improve safety in electrical systems, offering excellent insulation against high-voltage surges—essential in medical, industrial control, and power grid applications to shield sensitive components and operators. The capacity to incorporate these isolators into semiconductor chips also dovetails with the ongoing trend of more compact and integrated electronics.
Infineon's new iSSI series aims to equip engineers with the necessary means for more effective and powerful high-voltage and energy designs. Featuring a coreless transformer design and designed to be congruent with other Infineon switches, the novel iSSIs can readily substitute reed and electro-mechanical relays. Designers can utilize the iSSIs as a versatile circuit element in creating customized solid-state relays by pairing them with a power switch.
Infineon Technologies introduces a revolutionary family of solid-state isolators (iSSIs) leveraging coreless transformer technology to significantly enhance performance and efficiency in various applications.
BonChip Electronics, a trusted distributor of the entire Infineon product line, offers the complete portfolio of Infineon iSSIs alongside a wide range of power electronics solutions and expert technical support. Contact us today to explore how these innovative devices can optimize your next project.
Unveiling the Power of Coreless Transformer Technology:
Infineon's iSSIs redefine the boundaries of circuit switching with groundbreaking features:
- 20x Faster Energy Transfer: Enables efficient control of high-power applications.
- Up to 70% Lower Power Dissipation: Extends lifespan and reduces operating costs compared to traditional SCR/Triac-based solutions.
- 50x Lower RDS(on) compared to optically controlled solutions: Enables efficient use in high-voltage and high-power applications.
- 40% Lower Turn-On Power: Reduces energy consumption.
- Superior Reliability: Eliminates moving parts for enhanced dependability.
- Compatibility: Seamless integration with Infineon's broad portfolio of power electronics solutions, including CoolMOS S7, OptiMOS, and linear FETs.
Ideal Applications:
- Advanced battery management systems
- Energy storage systems
- Renewable energy systems
- Industrial automation
- Building automation systems
Beyond the Datasheet: Understanding Solid-State Isolators
Solid-state isolators play a critical role in modern electronics by:
- Preventing unwanted electrical current feedback: Protects sensitive circuits and ensures signal integrity.
- Leveraging solid-state electronics: Enables faster response times and eliminates moving parts for enhanced reliability.
- Offering superior performance: Compact size, energy efficiency, and noise immunity make them ideal for miniaturized and sensitive electronic systems.
- Enhancing safety: Provides superior isolation capabilities, crucial for medical devices, industrial control systems, and power grids.
A Versatile Solution for Custom Designs:
Infineon's iSSIs empower engineers to:
- Design high-performance, high-voltage, and high-power systems.
- Replace reed and electro-mechanical relays with a more efficient and reliable solution.
- Combine iSSIs with power switches to create custom solid-state relays.
Infineon's iSSIs with coreless transformer technology are transforming the landscape of power electronics. Contact BonChip Electronics today to learn more!
