High current & voltage power op amp drives piezo transducers

20th May 2015

Barney Scott

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Based on its MP108FD power op amp, Apex Microtechnology has released a next-gen open frame POA, the MP118FD. The MP118FD mirrors the high current and high voltage performance features of the MP108FD, adding a more comprehensive set of circuit protection capabilities, along with better thermal efficiency. Apex expects that customers using the MP118FD will find even more to like when it comes to driving piezo transducer applications.

The MP118 integrates several additional layers of onboard circuit protection safe guards. In addition to temperature shut down and external shut down, the device provides a twist that replaces the over-current limit functionality with the ability to completely shut down its output drivers when put into an over-current situation, as shown in the video below. This will protect the PA from over stress due to excessive current and unsafe power dissipation. Onboard temperature monitoring circuitry enables the MP118FD to shut down the system before any permanent damage can occur.

In terms of electrical performance, the MP118FD does not disappoint. The product is compatible with supplies up to 200V and is capable of 10A of continuous output current, or 12A peak. With all of this power, the MP118FD is equally impressive in terms of thermal efficiency. Compared with the MP108FD, this next-gen product exhibits 50% less quiescent current at just 26mA, and its open frame design is capable of handling internal power dissipation of 100W.

“Apex high voltage power amplifiers have proven very capable at driving piezo transducers in industrial applications such as inkjet print heads,” explained Jens Eltze, Strategic Marketing Manager, Apex. “The MP118FD evolved based on input from these customers who expressed the urgency for greater circuitry protection. The design flexibility of open frame construction made it possible to deliver a next-gen product that not only achieves a new level of circuit safety, but also delivers improved thermal efficiency. ”

Along with its popularity as a driver for the fine movement positioning of piezo-electric applications, the MP118FD also is a good choice for other applications requiring the accurate delivery of high voltage, including industrial instrumentation, manufacturing automation, reflectometers, and ultra-sound transducer drives.

The MP118FD is currently available in sample quantities for evaluation and prototyping, as well as volume production. Pricing for the MP118FD is $102.52 per unit in 100-piece quantities. An evaluation kit is currently in development for the MP118FD.