UCC27517A: High-Speed Low-Side Gate Driver IC

 

The UCC27517A is a high-performance, low-side gate driver IC from Texas Instruments. It is designed to drive power MOSFETs and IGBTs in high-speed switching applications with precision and efficiency. Known for its fast propagation delay and strong peak current capabilities, the UCC27517A is a key component in power management, motor drives, and industrial automation systems. 

This article delves into the features, specifications, and applications of the UCC27517A, highlighting its importance in modern power electronics. 

Key Features of UCC27517A 

1. High Peak Output Current 

   - Delivers up to 4A peak sourcing and 8A peak sinking current, ensuring efficient switching of high-capacitance gates. 

2. Low Propagation Delay 

   - Offers ultra-fast propagation delays of less than 13 ns, crucial for high-speed switching applications. 

3. Wide Operating Voltage Range 

   - Supports input supply voltage from 4.5V to 18V, compatible with a variety of systems. 

4. TTL and CMOS Logic Compatibility 

   - Input thresholds are compatible with both TTL and CMOS logic levels, supporting flexible design integration. 

5. Wide Operating Temperature Range 

   - Operates reliably in extreme conditions, with a range of -40°C to +140°C. 

6. Built-in Protection Features 

   - Includes UVLO (Under-Voltage Lockout) and thermal shutdown for enhanced reliability. 

7. Compact Package 

   - Available in space-saving SOT-23-5 and other package options, ideal for compact designs. 

Specifications of UCC27517A 

- Output Peak Current: 4A sourcing, 8A sinking 

- Operating Voltage Range (VDD): 4.5V to 18V 

- Input Logic Compatibility: TTL and CMOS 

- Propagation Delay: <13 ns (typical) 

- Rise Time: 6 ns (typical) 

- Fall Time: 7 ns (typical) 

- Operating Temperature Range: -40°C to +140°C 

- Quiescent Current: 0.2 mA (typical) 

- Input Threshold Voltage: 2V (for logic high) 

- Package Options: SOT-23-5, SOIC-8 

Applications of UCC27517A 

1. Switching Power Supplies 

   - Drives power MOSFETs and IGBTs in isolated and non-isolated DC-DC converters and SMPS designs. 

2. Motor Drives 

   - Enhances efficiency in motor control applications, including BLDC and stepper motors. 

3. Inverters 

   - Ideal for use in solar inverters, UPS systems, and industrial inverters. 

4. Lighting Control 

   - Supports high-efficiency LED drivers and lighting control circuits. 

5. Industrial Automation 

   - Provides robust gate driving in industrial power electronics and automation systems. 

6. Renewable Energy Systems 

   - Used in wind and solar power applications to drive high-power switches efficiently. 

7. Test and Measurement Equipment 

   - Ensures precise signal generation in high-speed test equipment. 

Benefits of UCC27517A 

1. Improved Efficiency 

   - High current capability and fast switching reduce power losses during transitions. 

2. Enhanced Reliability 

   - Built-in UVLO and thermal protection safeguard the circuit against adverse conditions. 

3. Wide Compatibility 

   - Works seamlessly with various logic levels and supply voltages. 

4. Compact Design 

   - Space-saving packages simplify integration into PCB layouts. 

5. High-Speed Performance 

   - Ultra-fast propagation delay ensures precise switching in high-frequency designs. 

Example Application: Driving a Power MOSFET in a DC-DC Converter 

Scenario: 

You are designing a high-efficiency DC-DC converter for an industrial application requiring fast switching and low power loss. 

 

Solution: 

1. Use the UCC27517A to drive the gate of the power MOSFET. 

2. Connect the input (IN) of the UCC27517A to the PWM signal from a microcontroller or control IC. 

3. Provide a stable supply voltage (4.5V–18V) to the VDD pin. 

4. Connect the output (OUT) of the UCC27517A to the gate of the MOSFET, ensuring rapid switching. 

 

This setup ensures efficient operation of the DC-DC converter, with minimal power dissipation and reliable performance. 

FAQs About UCC27517A 

Q: Can the UCC27517A drive both MOSFETs and IGBTs? 

Yes, it is designed to drive both MOSFETs and IGBTs efficiently. 

 

Q: Is the UCC27517A suitable for low-voltage applications? 

Yes, it operates at voltages as low as 4.5V, making it suitable for low-voltage systems. 

 

Q: What protection features does it offer? 

The IC includes under-voltage lockout (UVLO) and thermal shutdown for enhanced safety. 

 

Q: Can I use it in high-temperature environments? 

Yes, the UCC27517A operates reliably in temperatures ranging from -40°C to +140°C.  

 

Q: What are its key advantages for high-frequency applications? 

Its low propagation delay (<13 ns) and fast rise/fall times make it ideal for high-frequency designs.