Advanced HEXFET Power MOSFETs Improve Automotive Electrical Systems

28 August 2000

International Rectifier Advanced HEXFET Power MOSFETs Improve Automotive Electrical System Performance

    EL SEGUNDO, Calif.--Aug. 25, 2000--International Rectifier broadened its line of low-voltage, automotive-specific HEXFET(R) power MOSFETs for electrical systems, such as anti-lock braking system (ABS), electric power assisted steering (EPS) and integrated starter-alternator (ISA) systems.
    IR's new automotive devices achieved best-in-class ruggedness (avalanche) capability and device efficiency (on-resistance), parameters that have traditionally been traded off against one another. The avalanche capability of these devices is two times better than previous IR devices and five times better than similar industry-standard devices.
    The new devices combine IR's new silicon technology with the latest packaging innovations. For example, the IRFBA1404P is housed in IR's exclusive Super-220(TM) package. The Super-220 has the same footprint as the industry-standard TO-220 package, yet increases current-handling capability by 50 percent, and improves device on-resistance and thermal performance at the same time.
    In an electric power steering system, IR's new automotive-optimized MOSFETs can reduce device temperature by up to 28 degrees Celsius, when compared with existing technology devices. This is extremely important under certain operating conditions, when the MOSFET is required to handle large current surges.
    According to Gordon Gray, Technical Marketing manager for IR's Automotive Group, "The EPS control circuit may have to withstand a sustained current surge when the car is being parallel parked. The IRF1404's high efficiency rating would allow safer, more efficient operation and prevent high-temperature shutdown."

    Samples and Pricing

    Samples of the new automotive HEXFET power MOSFETs are available immediately. Production quantities of certain devices is available now and the balance of the devices in the series will follow shortly. Pricing starts at US$0.79 each for the IRFR2407 in 10,000-unit quantities.

    Data sheets are posted on the IR Web site, www.irf.com.