STMicroelectronics has launched two new automotive-grade gate drivers, the STGAP2SA and STGAP2HSA, featuring galvanic isolation, 4A drive capability, a fast 60ns response time, and tight part-to-part matching. These features support higher switching frequencies, helping improve system efficiency and power density.
Built to drive IGBTs and silicon MOSFETs on high-voltage rails up to 1200V, the devices can source or sink 4A at voltages up to 26V and support both unipolar and bipolar drive configurations. As part of the STGAP family of industrial and automotive isolated gate drivers, the AEC-Q100-qualified components are suitable for conventional, hybrid, and electric vehicle applications.
Common use cases include DC/DC converters, pumps, fans, heaters, e-compressors, and onboard chargers (OBCs). They can also be deployed in wallbox and pedestal DC charging stations, as well as industrial inverters and motor drive systems.
To enhance safety and simplify design, the drivers integrate several protection features such as under-voltage lockout (UVLO), safe-state output during power-up and power-down, Miller clamp circuitry to avoid false turn-on, and thermal shutdown with automatic restart after cooling. A built-in watchdog monitors communication from the low-voltage side and forces a safe output state if a fault occurs. A standby mode for reduced power consumption is enabled by driving both inputs high. Both devices comply with UL 1577 isolation standards.
The STGAP2SA comes in a standard SO-8 package and provides 4800V transient and surge isolation (VIOTM, VIOSM). The STGAP2HSA, designed to meet IEC 60747-17 basic insulation requirements, offers 6000V surge isolation and is housed in a wide-body SO-8W package with 8mm creepage and clearance.
To support faster development, evaluation boards are available: the EVALSTGAP2SAC with the STGAP2SA and the EVALSTGAP2HSAC with the STGAP2HSA for applications requiring higher isolation. Both devices are already in mass production.
