Power integrated circuits

Power integrated circuits

Integrated circuits that are capable of driving a power load. The key feature of a power integrated circuit that differentiates it from other semiconductor technologies is its ability to handle high voltage, high current, or a combination of both.

In its simplest form, a power integrated circuit may consist of a level-shifting and drive circuit that translates logic-level input signals from a microprocessor to a voltage and current level sufficient to energize a load. For example, such a chip may be used to operate electronic display, where the load is usually capacitive in nature but requires drive voltages above 100 V, which is much greater than the operating voltage of digital logic circuits (typically 5 V). At the other extreme, the power integrated circuit may be required to perform load monitoring, diagnostic functions, self-protection, and information feedback to the microprocessor, in addition to handling large amounts of power to actuate the load. An example of this is an automotive multiplexed bus system with distributed power integrated circuits for control of lights, motors, air conditioning, and so forth. See Automotive electrical system

Power integrated circuits are expected to have an impact on all areas in which power semiconductor devices are presently being used. In addition, they are expected to open up new applications based upon their added features. The wide spectrum of voltages and currents over which power semiconductor devices are utilized are summarized in the table. See Integrated circuits