PI Webinar - GaN Enables Smaller, Higher Power and More Efficient Automotive Power Supplies

Hosted by Power Systems Design, sponsored by Power Integrations

As auto manufacturers refine electric vehicle architectures, there is an increasing requirement for low power (50 W to 250 W) high voltage to low voltage DC-to-DC isolated converters.  Applications include emergency power supplies for ADAS systems and traction inverters, internal BMS power and the trend to shrink or eliminate the 12 V battery.

The data presented shows how, with the application of GaN power devices, higher powers can be delivered compared to Silicon.  When integrated with direct secondary side sensing and smart control it is also possible to achieve high and constant efficiency and extremely low no-load or standby power, critical for reducing vehicle self-discharge.  The use and extension of the flyback topology is significant because of cost, size, component count (reliability) and ability to generate multiple isolated outputs. 

Specific examples will be presented showing design details and performance with highlights including >93% efficiency, 105°C operation, 30 V startup, <50 mW no-load consumption.  Suitable for 400 V and 800 V systems.

Speakers

Peter Vaughan
Director of Automotive Business Development
Power Integrations

Peter Vaughan is the Director of Automotive Business Development at Power Integrations and has over 30 years of power electronics experience. Most recently, Peter was Senior Director of DC power at ChargePoint developing power conversion solutions for ultra-high speed EV charging. He holds a BEng Hons Degree in Electrical and Electronic Engineering from Heriot-Watt University, UK.

Steve Paul
Moderator
Power Systems Design