RECOM Introduces DC/DC Converters Specially Designed for Gate Drive Power Supplies

     RECOM has added the RA3 series of 3W SMD modules to its family of low-cost, unregulated DC/DC converters designed to provide optimum voltage for semiconductor switching gate drivers. Depending on the model, it can provide 8V, 9V single output, or +7/-1V, +15/-3V and +20/-5V dual output. These voltages meet the requirements of IGBTs, traditional silicon MOSFETs, the latest silicon carbide MOSFETs, and GaN HEMT cells. These modules feature 5.2kV/1min functional isolation, are UL/IEC/EN 62368-1 and CAN/CSA-C22.2 No 62368-1 certified, and comply with EN 61204-3 standards. Modules comply with EMI EN 55032 class A without additional filters, or can easily meet class B requirements by simply installing a simple LC filter. The 3W voltage is not only suitable for large IGBTs, but also Si, SiC and GaN devices for high frequency switching.

     The modules have input voltages of +5V, +12V, and +24V with a tolerance of +/-10% and efficiency typically higher than 80%. Isolation capacitances of less than 10pF provide high immunity to fast, high-voltage switching edges present in high-side drivers, especially those using SiC and GaN wide-bandgap technologies. The operating temperature range of the module without derating is -40°C to +85°C (80°C for 1V, 8V and 9V outputs).

     The RA3 series is housed in a surface mount package with "planar grid" terminations, measuring only 23.4mm x 15mm x 8.5mm, taking up 35% less area and 60% less volume than competitor modules. With a wide-pitch surface mount format, the module can achieve the necessary high isolation between the DC/DC output pins of the customer's PCB and other circuits by connecting only to the top layer.

     The hermetically sealed package and wide operating temperature range of the RA3 series are ideal for harsh environment applications such as renewable energy, solar inverters, induction heating, telecommunications, electric vehicle battery chargers, and motor drives.

     Matthew Dauterive, RECOM Product Manager, said: "We work closely with leading manufacturers of wide bandgap devices to ensure that these DC/DCs provide the best performance for the latest generation. They are significantly smaller than other solutions on the market. It also requires fewer external components, making it easier to use in product designs.