Isolated GaN Load Switch Answers High-Performance Need

Load switches are essential components in modern electronics, as they are widely used to enable efficient power control to specific loads. As technology advances, the demand for faster, more efficient, and high-power load switches is increasing. 

Teledyne e2v Hirel Electronics has unveiled its high-power gallium nitride (GaN) load switch for high-reliability electronics applications. The product could offer solutions to the ever-increasing performance requirements of load switches.

GaN load switch. Image used courtesy of Teledyne e2v Hirel Electronics

Load Switch Essentials

A load switch is a semiconductor that controls the power flow in electronic circuits by serving as an interface between power sources and loads. These devices provide efficient and safe power distribution management by controlling a load's on/off state, often incorporating protection features such as current limiting, thermal shutdown, and soft-start. For this reason, load switches often find applications in battery-powered devices, consumer electronics, and power management applications to extend battery life and enhance safety.  

Some key parameters dictate the performance and efficiency of load switches. 

A minimal on-state resistance RDS_(on) is ideal for power efficiency and thermal management. For electronics safety, the rated inrush current and soft start capability protect circuits by controlling the initial current, ensuring smooth power-up and stability. In high-speed applications, propagation delay affects the switch's response time. 

Furthermore, load switch current sense functionality provides real-time current monitoring, aiding in detecting overcurrent conditions and enhancing safety. Finally, isolation voltage is a notable specification in high-power load switches, as this specification determines the switch’s ability to handle different voltage levels without leakage.

Elevating Reliability and Performance

Teledyne e2v Hirel Electronics has introduced the TDGM650LS60 load switch with an advanced 650 V power module for high-reliability electronics applications. 

This module combines a high-voltage GaN transistor and an isolated driver within a single package, creating a versatile load switch or solid-state switch. GaN-based power devices surpass silicon ones with higher breakdown strength, faster switching, better thermal conductivity, and lower on-resistance. Therefore, by leveraging the superior performance of GaN, the TDGM650LS60 brings several impressive performance specifications that would be difficult to match with conventional silicon.

TDGM650LS60 block diagram and pinout. Image used courtesy of Teledyne e2v Hirel Electronics

Controlled by an external enable signal or a microcontroller's PWM signal, the TDGM650LS60 boasts exceptional performance. Its minimum breakdown voltage is 650 V, and the driver offers 5 kV isolation. It is tailored for high-voltage, high-current applications and maintains a consistent low RDS(on) of 25 mΩ. 

The load switch also ensures safe operation in high-speed applications and rugged environments with a 50 ns propagation delay and operating temperatures from -55°C to 125°C. Thanks to a maximum current of 60 A and rapid response time, Teledyne believes this switch is ideal for applications including security relays, half-bridge switches, and full-bridge switches.

Transforming Power Solutions

Load switches are standard and ubiquitous components in most power electronics systems. With the introduction of the TDGM650LS60, Teledyne e2v Hirel Electronics hopes to offer the industry a step forward. By integrating advanced GaN technology with robust design elements, this product aims to meet the escalating demands for energy efficiency and reliability in electronic components and more sophisticated power management solutions.