Micrel launches 85V full bridge MOSFET driver addressing technology advances in battery operated tools

SAN JOSE, USA: Micrel Inc. has introduced the MIC4606, a 85V Full Bridge MOSFET driver that features Adaptive-Dead-Time and Shoot-Through Protection.

The device is part of Micrel's highly successful 85V MOSFET Driver family first launched in 2013 and is designed to focus on the growing power needs of multiple applications. The 85V MIC4606 family is part of Micrel's strategy to address battery powered tools, uninterrupted power supplies, radio controlled toys and the growing drone market.

The MIC4606 is currently available in volume with pricing starting at $1.37 for 1K quantities in a 4mm x 4mm QFN package.

"The ubiquitous powered tool market has been quietly undergoing technological advances by adding control algorithms to enhance user productivity, safety and product longevity. Micrel's 85V Full Bridge MOSFET driver offers advanced circuitry such as Adaptive-Dead-Time for high power efficiency and Shoot-Through Protection for enhanced reliability," noted Brian Hedayati, VP of marketing, high-performance Linear and Power Solutions, Micrel.

"The MIC4606 is one of the industries' most robust and power efficient Full Bridge MOSFET drivers designed to address a wide variety of applications including stepper motors, DC brushed and brush less motors, and DC/AC inverters."

The MIC4606 combines a full array of features and technology solutions all designed to maximize power efficiency. The Adaptive-Dead-Time circuitry actively monitors the Full Bridge to minimize time between high and low side MOSFET transitions. The Anti-Shoot-Through circuitry prevents erroneous inputs and noise from turning on both MOSFETs at the same time. The device also offers a wide 5.5V to 16V operating supply range that also maximizes system efficiency.

The low 5.5V operating voltage allows for longer run time in battery powered applications. These features combine to make the MIC4606 an ideal solution for the industry's most demanding battery operated motor applications including power tools and power DC/AC inverters. In addition, the 85V operating voltage offers plenty of margins in order to protect against voltage spikes that are typical in motor drive and power supply circuitry.

The MIC4606 is available in a tiny 16 pin 4mm × 4mm QFN package with an operating junction temperature range of -40-degC to +125-degC.