Microchip Technology has introduced a cutting-edge onboard charger (OBC) solution tailored for battery electric vehicles (EVs) and plug-in hybrid EVs, signaling a significant advancement in automotive power electronics. This new offering integrates Microchip’s dsPIC33C digital signal controller (DSC), MCP14C1 isolated SiC gate driver, and high-performance SiC MOSFETs, aimed at accelerating time-to-market for EV developers.
The OBC solution, recently showcased at the In-Comm Training Awards in Birmingham, incorporates several key components essential for efficient EV charging. Microchip’s dsPIC33C DSC, renowned for its dual-core architecture and automotive-grade AEC-Q100 qualification, optimizes control tasks and digital signal processing. This capability enhances functionalities such as power factor correction and modulation, crucial for maintaining stable charging operations across diverse conditions.
Complementing the dsPIC33C, the MCP14C1 gate driver delivers robust performance with its capability to source and sink up to 5 A of current, specifically designed for driving SiC MOSFETs. The driver’s built-in undervoltage lockout feature ensures reliability in SiC MOSFET operation, while its internal capacitive isolation minimizes noise and prevents unintended triggering, crucial in high-power applications.
Furthermore, Microchip’s AEC-Q100-qualified SiC MOSFETs, housed in D2PAK-7 XL packages, offer enhanced voltage and current capabilities compared to traditional MOSFETs. These attributes are pivotal in achieving efficient power conversion and minimizing switching losses, thereby optimizing overall system performance.
The comprehensive OBC solution from Microchip is not only designed to streamline EV charging processes but also to address complex design challenges. By providing a cohesive suite of interoperable components, Microchip ensures reliability and compatibility, facilitating easier integration into EV platforms. This approach not only accelerates development cycles but also enhances the efficiency and longevity of onboard charging systems.
Microchip’s commitment extends beyond hardware provision, encompassing comprehensive support through reference designs, simulation tools, and dedicated technical assistance. This holistic approach underscores Microchip’s leadership in empowering automotive engineers to innovate and deploy advanced solutions in the rapidly evolving EV market.
The introduction of Microchip’s OBC solution marks a pivotal advancement in automotive electronics, promising to elevate the performance standards of EV charging systems and support the industry’s shift towards sustainable mobility solutions.