The SM72238/NOPB is a versatile and high-performance Photovoltaic Full Bridge Driver developed by Texas Instruments. It is designed to efficiently control and drive the gates of external MOSFETs in a full bridge configuration. The device is specifically tailored for photovoltaic systems but can be applied to a variety of applications that require a high-voltage, full bridge driver.

Key Features

• High-Voltage Capability: The SM72238/NOPB can handle high voltages, making it suitable for photovoltaic systems and other applications that operate at elevated voltages.
• Integrated Charge Pump: The device includes a built-in charge pump that ensures the gate voltage is sufficient to fully turn on the external N-channel MOSFETs, even at low supply voltages.
• Low Power Consumption: Designed with energy efficiency in mind, the SM72238/NOPB consumes minimal power, which is critical for solar-powered applications.
• Robust Protection Features: It incorporates various protection mechanisms such as under-voltage lockout (UVLO) and thermal shutdown to ensure safe operation under adverse conditions.
• Simple Interface: The driver provides a straightforward interface for easy integration into system designs.

Applications

The primary application of the SM72238/NOPB is in solar inverters, where it drives the full bridge circuit of the inverter's output stage. However, its high-voltage capability and robust feature set make it suitable for a wide range of additional applications, including:

• Uninterruptible power supplies (UPS)
• DC/AC power inverters
• Motor control circuits
• High-voltage power conversion systems

Reliability and Quality

As with all Texas Instruments products, the SM72238/NOPB is manufactured to meet high-quality standards. The device is available in a Non-Obsolescence Program (NOPB) variant, ensuring long-term availability and support for applications with extended life cycles.

Conclusion

The SM72238/NOPB from Texas Instruments stands out as a reliable and efficient solution for managing full bridge circuits in high-voltage applications. With its integrated features and robust protection mechanisms, it represents an excellent choice for designers looking to optimize their power conversion systems in photovoltaic and other demanding environments.