Power Integrations launches GaN-based InnoSwitch3 AC-DC converter ICs

Power Integrations of San Jose, CA, USA, which provides high-voltage integrated circuits for energy-efficient power conversion, has added new members of its InnoSwitch3 families of offline CV/CC flyback switcher ICs. The new ICs feature up to 95% efficiency across the full load range and up to 100W in enclosed adapter implementations without requiring a heatsink. This increase in performance is achieved using an internally developed high-voltage gallium nitride (GaN) switch technology.

Quasi-resonant InnoSwitch3-CP, InnoSwitch3-EP and InnoSwitch3-Pro ICs combine primary, secondary and feedback circuits in a single surface-mounted package. In the new family members, GaN switches replace the traditional silicon high-voltage transistors on the primary side of the IC, reducing conduction losses when current is flowing, and considerably reducing switching losses during operation. This results in substantially less wasted energy and therefore increased efficiency and power delivery from the space-saving InSOP-24D package.

Targeting high-efficiency flyback designs, such as USB-PD (power delivery) and high-current chargers/adapters for mobile devices, set-top boxes, displays, appliances, networking and gaming products, the new ICs provide accurate CV/CC/CP independent of external components, and interface to fast-charging protocol ICs. The InnoSwitch3-CP and ‑EP variants are hardware-configurable, while the InnoSwitch3-Pro incorporates a digital interface for software control of CV and CC setpoints, exception handing and safety-mode options.

“GaN is a pivotal technology offering significant efficiency and size benefits over silicon,” says president & CEO Balu Balakrishnan. “We anticipate a rapid conversion from silicon transistors to GaN in many power applications,” he adds. “InnoSwitch3 has been the clear technology leader in the offline switcher IC market since we launched the silicon variants 18 months ago,” he claims, “and the new GaN-based ICs further extend our lead by advancing both the efficiency and power capability of our flyback products.”

The new InnoSwitch 3 ICs are available now, priced at $4/unit in 10,000-piece quantities. Five new reference designs describing USB-PD chargers from 60W to 100W are available on the firm’s website, along with an automated design tool, PI Expert, and other technical support documentation.

Tags: GaN Power electronics

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