How do you define "high-voltage" input for power converter ICs?
For most power-management subsystem ICs, "high-voltage" input is 30 up to 100 V. The 100-V maximum input rating ensures reliable and safe operation of 48-V bus telecommunication power converters, 42-V automotive systems, and other industrial systems that operate at similar voltages. The normal voltage range is lower than 100 V. However, parasitic inductances and peak noise transients can cause voltage spikes that approach 100 V. The higher-voltage rating provides additional reliability insurance.
What does the IC manufacturer have to do to obtain a highvoltage input rating?
High-voltage ICs require specialized wafer technologies and device designs that increase the breakdown voltage of certain transistors. Most high-voltage ICs integrate high-voltage devices with low-voltage logic and control circuits. The high-voltage devices use deeper junctions and larger dimensions than the standard low-voltage devices.
Click here to download the PDF version of this entire article.