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UCC23513: What are the differences and application scenarios between optocoupler isolation drivers and ordinary single channel isolation drivers?

Part Number: UCC23513
Other Parts Discussed in Thread: UCC5350, , UCC5390, UCC5310, UCC5320, UCC23525

Tool/software:

Dear TI Team,


I have been looking at isolation drives recently and saw that the optocoupler  isolation driver UCC23513 and the single channel isolation driver UCC5350 have similar functional parameters, but the prices differ significantly.
May I ask in which fields are typical optocoupler isolation drivers used? What are the advantages and disadvantages of the two at the scheme level?

  • Hi Jackson,

    To start, the UCC5350 and UCC5390 versions have much larger output stages than the UCC23513, and can deliver higher output current (10A and 17A typ vs. 4.4A). The inputs are differential, which can help improve CMTI of the gate drive circuit. The Miller clamp or split output options are beneficial features, but the additional pins and larger chip add cost.

    The UCC23513 has a current input, so usually it requires a buffer to drive the input. Otherwise, it does have a reinforced isolation option, like UCC5350, and is a good option for cost optimization. Usually optocouplers are used to drive IGBTs, and UCC5350 is used to drive SiC FETs where higher switching frequency and output current are required.

    Here is a side by side comparison of the driver's output voltage when driving a 330nF load capacitor. UCC23513 is indeed similar to the UCC5320 and UCC5310 in terms of drive strength. The new UCC23525 has an improved output stage do deliver higher currents when the external Rg is low. However, UCC5350 is still stronger, and UCC5390 is the strongest by far.

    Best regards,

    Sean