Certified isolation voltage for electric vehicles

This new package has an ultra-low (265 microhm) series resistance- more than 2.5 times lower than existing SOIC16W solutions- while delivering Allegro’s highest certified isolation rating of 5kVRMS.

The first devices available in this new package are Allegro’s current sensor ICs ACS724 and ACS725, both offering leading performance in terms of speed and accuracy. These devices are optimal for applications like DC/DC converters, solar inverters, UPS systems, xEV On Board Chargers (OBC), EV charging pile, and motor control.

With a trend toward smaller solution size, engineers face more thermal challenges. The new MC package has a copper leadframe more than two times (2X) thicker than that of standard SOIC semiconductor packages. This allows for the ultra-low 265 microhm series resistance that improves current density in the Allegro package- and therefore power density in customers applications.

At the same time, the SOIC16W footprint also allows for smaller PCBs. The package is capable of handling >80A of continuous current depending on operating temperature requirements and subsequently reduces the need for external cooling components.

“We all need to work toward a more sustainable future and Allegro’s innovations are leading the way. Designers of electric and hybrid vehicles are working to reduce the weight and size of their systems,” explained Shaun Milano, Business Unit Director for Current Sensors at Allegro. “They need to deliver higher power density solutions, and the new MC package now makes this easier than ever.”

Patented internal package constructions deliver another first for Allegro with a 5kVRMS isolation rating that allows customers to operate at continuous voltages as high as 1600VDC and 1140VRMS. This meets the needs of the most demanding electric vehicle applications and the new 1,500VDC solar standards.