Power Integrations has just raised the bar for power technology by introducing the InnoMux-2 IC, the industry’s first 1700 V gallium nitride (GaN) switcher. This new chip leverages the company’s advanced PowiGaN™ technology to deliver exceptional efficiency and performance. It is designed to replace more expensive silicon carbide (SiC) components in demanding applications like solar inverters, electric vehicle chargers, and industrial power systems, marking a significant step forward for GaN technology.
A New Voltage Benchmark for GaN Switches
Power Integrations has achieved a major milestone with its new InnoMux-2 IC. The integrated 1700 V GaN switch is a breakthrough, surpassing the company’s own 900 V and 1250 V devices released earlier. This high-voltage capability allows the chip to operate efficiently from a 1000 VDC input, which is critical for next-generation power systems.
According to Radu Barsan, the company’s vice president of technology, the pace of innovation has been rapid. “Our GaN development has reached unprecedented voltage ratings—900 V, 1250 V, and now 1700 V—all within two years,” Barsan stated. This progress highlights the company’s leadership in pushing the boundaries of what GaN technology can achieve.
The new IC also incorporates zero-voltage switching without needing an active clamp, a design choice that significantly cuts down on energy losses during operation. This makes the entire system more efficient and reliable.
How Proprietary Tech Delivers High Efficiency
The impressive performance of the InnoMux-2 IC is powered by several of Power Integrations’ unique technologies. At its core are the PowiGaN™ switch and FluxLink™ digital isolation, which work together to deliver over 90 percent efficiency and precise power regulation.
FluxLink™ technology allows the secondary side of the power supply to communicate with the primary side without a direct electrical connection. This ensures highly accurate voltage regulation for each output, keeping them all within a one percent margin. As a result, designers can eliminate extra post-regulation components, boosting overall system efficiency by about ten percent.
The combination of these features creates a powerful and streamlined solution.
| Technology | Primary Benefit |
|---|---|
| 1700 V PowiGaN™ Switch | Enables operation from high-voltage DC sources. |
| FluxLink™ Isolation | Provides accurate multi-output regulation without extra parts. |
| Integrated Zero-Voltage Switching | Minimizes switching losses and increases overall efficiency. |
Targeting Automotive, Solar, and Industrial Power
The InnoMux-2 IC is not just a technical achievement; it is a practical solution for several high-growth industries. Its ability to manage high voltages efficiently makes it a strong competitor to silicon carbide, especially in applications where both performance and cost are important. Industry analyst Ezgi Dogmus from Yole Group noted, “Power Integrations’ 1700 V GaN HEMT is groundbreaking…GaN could potentially outperform SiC in cost-sensitive applications.”
The chip is particularly well-suited for:
- Automotive Charging Solutions: It can efficiently handle the high-voltage power conversion required for electric vehicle charging infrastructure.
- Solar Inverters: Its high efficiency helps maximize energy capture from solar panels, making renewable energy systems more productive and affordable.
- Industrial Power Systems: The device’s ability to provide multiple, tightly regulated outputs is ideal for complex industrial machinery and controls.
By serving these key markets, Power Integrations is helping to build a more sustainable and efficient clean-power ecosystem.
Availability and Market Impact
Power Integrations has made the InnoMux-2 IC immediately accessible to engineers and manufacturers. The new chip is available for purchase now through global distributors like DigiKey, Newark, Mouser, and RS Components. The pricing is set at $4.90 per unit for orders of 10,000, positioning it as a competitive option.
To help speed up the design process, the company has also released a reference design (RDR-1053) for a 60 W dual-output power supply. This and other resources are available on the Power Integrations website, providing a clear path for customers to evaluate and implement the new technology in their own products.
