Enhanced Web Tool Speeds IGBT Selection, Matching Device To The Application

Focus:

A vendor’s device-selection tool enables the system designer to navigate through the various part numbers more easily, in order to locate the most suitable components. However, these tools are still evolving. This article discusses the recent enhancements made by International Rectifier in its IGBT selection tool. The first version of the tool permitted users to enter critical application parameters and then calculate a device’s junction temperature under a set of representative operating conditions. In the latest version, this tool was expanded to account for heatsink thermal resistance and the thermal resistance of surface-mounted parts. In addition to describing tool features, this article presents an example of how this tool can be used to compare IGBT options in the design of a small motor drive. Tool limitations are also discussed as these are leading to the development of more-powerful, application-specific tools. Article begins by discussing why device selection tools are needed, limitations of web-based product selector tables, and difficulties encountered in selection of IGBTs stemming from the many possible tradeoffs in device characteristics, evolving technology, vendor differences, and varying application requirements. Then the history and operation of IR’s IGBT selection tool is explained, leading to the discussion on the recent enhancements.

What you’ll learn:

• How to understand the benefits and capabilities of IGBT selection tools such as the one offered by International Rectifier
• How to use International Rectifier’s IGBT selection tool

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Author & Publication:

Steve Clemente, International Rectifier, El Segundo, Calif., How2Power Today, Apr 15 2013

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