Microchip HV2601BD-M936: A High-Voltage Serial-to-Parallel Converter for Industrial and Automotive Applications
In the demanding environments of modern industrial automation and next-generation automotive systems, the need for robust and reliable high-voltage switching is paramount. The Microchip HV2601BD-M936 stands out as a specialized integrated circuit designed to meet these rigorous challenges. This 32-channel serial-to-parallel converter is engineered to deliver precise control of high-voltage outputs from a low-voltage serial input, serving as a critical interface between microcontrollers and power-hungry actuators.
Core Functionality and Architecture
At its heart, the HV2601BD-M936 is a high-voltage, low-power CMOS device that operates with an output voltage range up to 90V. It accepts a standard 3.3V or 5V serial data stream (via SPI or similar interfaces) from a host microcontroller and converts it into 32 parallel high-voltage outputs. Each output channel is an open-drain NMOS transistor capable of sinking significant current, making it ideal for driving a wide array of loads, including solenoids, valves, relays, LED arrays, and vacuum fluorescent displays (VFDs).
The device incorporates a 32-bit shift register and data latches. Data is clocked in serially and then transferred to the output latches upon receiving a latch enable signal. A separate output enable pin allows all outputs to be simultaneously placed in a high-impedance state, providing essential safety and control. This architecture ensures simple yet effective management of multiple high-voltage channels with minimal GPIO pin usage on the controlling MCU.
Key Features for Demanding Applications
Several features make the HV2601BD-M936 exceptionally suited for harsh application environments:
High-Voltage Operation (Vdd = 90V max): Enables direct control of industrial and automotive actuators without the need for numerous intermediate driver stages.
Robust Protection: The device is designed with integrated thermal shutdown protection and features a high level of latch-up immunity, crucial for maintaining system integrity in electrically noisy environments.
Automotive Qualification: A key differentiator is its compliance with AEC-Q100 standards, ensuring reliability and performance under the extreme temperature fluctuations and stresses encountered in automotive applications.
Low Power Consumption: Built with low-power CMOS technology, it minimizes the control circuit's power dissipation.
Industrial and Automotive Use Cases
The applications for this converter are vast and critical:
Industrial Automation: Controlling solenoid valves in pneumatic or hydraulic systems, activating relays, and managing industrial lighting.
Automotive Systems: In automotive body electronics, it is used for powering LED lighting systems, controlling seat positioning motors, window lifters, and other high-current actuators. Its robustness makes it suitable for under-the-hood applications where temperature and noise are significant factors.
Test and Measurement Equipment: Driving multiple channels in automated test equipment (ATE) for device under test (DUT) power sequencing and control.
Conclusion
The Microchip HV2601BD-M936 is a powerful and specialized solution that simplifies the design of multi-channel high-voltage systems. By bridging the gap between low-voltage digital controllers and high-voltage loads, it reduces system complexity, improves reliability, and saves valuable board space. Its ruggedized design and automotive qualification make it an excellent choice for engineers developing systems that must perform reliably in the world's most challenging environments.
ICGOODFIND: The HV2601BD-M936 is an AEC-Q100 qualified, 90V, 32-channel serial-to-parallel converter that provides a robust and integrated interface for driving high-voltage loads in industrial and automotive applications, significantly enhancing system integration and reliability.
Keywords: High-Voltage Driver, Serial-to-Parallel Converter, Automotive Grade (AEC-Q100), Industrial Automation, 32-Channel Output.
