The system consists of a central IMC (Isolated Master Control) and four MAG (Module-Adapted Gate Drivers). The IMC provides a blocking voltage of 4.5 kV. A range of MAGs is available to service a variety of power modules, suppliers, and semiconductor switching technologies in the 1700 V, 3300 V, and 4500 V voltage classes.
The SCALE-iFlex gate driver system allows for easy parallel connection of the industry's latest dual-power modules, providing reliable and highly flexible system scalability with minimal development effort. The MAG is positioned adjacent to the module control terminals to ensure excellent switching performance, and the IMC handles all necessary communication between the MAG and the user's MCU management functions, such as PWM commands, short-circuit and low-voltage fault reporting, NTC voltage measurement, and DC-Link.
The IMC is available with either an electrical or fiber optic interface with reinforced insulation, compliant with EN 50124-1, IEC 61800-5-1, and UL 61800-5-1 for 1700 V and 3300 V power modules. The fiber optic IMC also meets the basic insulation requirements for 4500 V semiconductors. The devices feature double-sided conformal coating; the units undergo full in-circuit testing (ICT) and 100% hipot and partial discharge testing to ensure unparalleled reliability. The devices include a comprehensive suite of protection features, such as undervoltage lockout, advanced soft shutdown (ASSD) short-circuit protection, and reinforced insulation NTC temperature sensing (up to 3300 V).
Comments from Thorsten Schmidt, Technical Product Manager at Power Integrations: “The SCALE-iFlex gate controller system is optimized for the latest 1700V to 3300V rated power modules from all major module manufacturers. The system provides the ultimate in reliability for demanding applications such as wind turbine inverters, industrial drives, and leading propulsion and auxiliary inverters for railway applications.”.
The SCALE-iFlex IMC and MAG gate controller system will be available in August 2019. A typical use case comprising one IMC, four MAGs, and associated cables is priced at $693 in quantities of 100 units.
