2SB315A

Description and Application Manual

for 2SB315A SCALE Dual-Channel
Plug-and-play IGBT Drivers
Driver solution for 130mm x 140mm dual IGBT modules with
electrical interface for 2-level topologies

Abstract

The 2SB315A is a dual-channel driver based on CONCEPT’s 2SD315AI SCALE driver

core, a proven technology for the reliable driving and safe operation of IGBTs.
The driver is matched to several dual IGBT modules with dimensions of
130mm x 140mm. Its plug-and-play capability makes it ready to operate immediately
after mounting. The user needs invest no effort in designing or adjusting it to a specific
application.

Fig. 1a 2SB315A screwed onto a 130mmx140mm IGBT module (bottom view)

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Contents

System Overview ............................................................................................. 4

The Six Steps to Success.................................................................................. 5

1. Choose a suitable driver.................................................................................................5
2. Attach the drivers to the IGBT modules...........................................................................5
3. Connect the driver to the control electronics ...................................................................5
4. Select the operating mode .............................................................................................5
5. Check the driver function ...............................................................................................6
6. Set up and test the power stack .....................................................................................6
Pin Designation of Connector X1 ..................................................................... 7

Recommended Interface Circuitry for Connector X1 ....................................... 7

Description of Interface X1.............................................................................. 8

General.............................................................................................................................8
VDC terminal.....................................................................................................................9
VDD terminal ....................................................................................................................9
Mod (input, mode selection)...............................................................................................9
ResetQ (input) ................................................................................................................ 10
InA, InB (channel drive inputs, e.g. PWM) ........................................................................ 11
SO1, SO2 (status outputs) ............................................................................................... 11
Protection Concept ........................................................................................ 13
Power-supply monitoring ................................................................................................. 13
Short-circuit and overcurrent protection ............................................................................ 13
Active clamping ............................................................................................................... 14
Bibliography .................................................................................................................... 15
The Information Source: SCALE Driver Data Sheets...................................... 16

Quite Special: Customized SCALE Drivers...................................................... 16

Evaluation Systems........................................................................................ 16

Customer-Specific Systems ........................................................................... 16

Consulting and Training................................................................................. 17

Technical Support .......................................................................................... 17

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Quality ........................................................................................................... 17

Disclaimer ...................................................................................................... 17

Ordering Information .................................................................................... 18

Information about Other Products ................................................................ 18

Manufacturer ................................................................................................. 18

Fig. 1b 2SB315A screwed onto a 130mmx140mm IGBT module (top view)

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Description and Application Manual

System Overview

The 2SB315A comprises the standard driver 2SD315AI (see /3/ for more details)
mounted on a basic board. It is based on the proven SCALE technology developed by
CONCEPT and implemented more than a hundred thousand times. For further
information on this technology, refer to /1/, /2/ and /3/.

Vce Monitoring

C
Dz

Electrical Driver Rg2

Interface X1 Q
Rg1
G
Dgc

E
GND
2SD315AI
Basic board
Fig. 2 Separation of universal (red) and IGBT-specific functions (green)

The basic board contains all gate resistors, gate-clamping and active-clamping diodes
(overvoltage protection), the diodes for the collector-sense function (surge-current and
short-circuit protection) as well as the electrical connector. Moreover, it includes
components for setting the turn-off trip level, the response time and the dead time
between both channels in half-bridge mode. Its plug-and-play capability means that it is
ready to operate immediately after mounting. The user needs invest no effort in
designing or adjusting the driver to a specific application.
The driver parameters that must be specifically matched to the IGBT module are placed
on the basic board, which is completely assembled and tested by CONCEPT. The basic
boards are assembled with the smallest possible gate resistor in order to minimize
switching losses. The values for the gate resistors and other key components can be
found in the specific datasheets for a given IGBT module.

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The Six Steps to Success

The following steps point out the easy way to use 2SB315A drivers in
power converters:

1. Choose a suitable driver

When applying 2SB315A drivers, you should note that they are specifically adapted to a
particular type of IGBT module.
The type designation of the driver consequently also includes a number corresponding
to a specific IGBT module (see “Ordering Information”).
These drivers are not valid for IGBT modules other than those specified.
Incorrect use may result in failure.

2. Attach the drivers to the IGBT modules

Any handling of IGBT modules or drivers is subject to the
general specifications for protecting electrostatic-sensitive
devices according to international standard IEC 747-1,
Chapter IX or European standard EN 100015 (i.e. the
workplace, tools, etc. must comply with these standards).
If these specifications are ignored, both IGBTs and drivers may be damaged.
The driver can be easily mounted onto an IGBT module by screwing the corresponding
terminals.

3. Connect the driver to the control electronics

Connect the driver plug X1 to your control electronics and supply the driver with a
voltage of +15V.

4. Select the operating mode

The operating mode can be set with input Mod (interface X1: pin 17). For details, see
page 9).

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5. Check the driver function

Check the gate voltage: For the off-state, the nominal gate voltage is –15V. For the on-
state, it is +15V. Also check the input current consumption of the driver without clock
signals and at the desired switching frequency.
It is recommended that these tests be performed before installation, as the gate
terminals may otherwise not be accessible.

6. Set up and test the power stack

Before starting up the system, it is recommended that each IGBT module be checked
separately under power-cycling conditions. It is usually sufficient to apply the single or
double-pulse technique.
Even if only single IGBTs are tested, all the system’s gate drivers must be
supplied with energy. All the other IGBTs can then be kept in the off state by
applying negative gate voltages. This is particularly important when
switching the IGBTs under test.
The short-circuit behavior can also be verified at this point.
The system is then ready to start under real-world load conditions. This allows the
thermal behavior of the whole arrangement to be determined.
The system must be re-qualified over the entire specified range of temperature and
load conditions.

CAUTION: All handling with high voltages involves

risk to life.
It is imperative to comply with the respective safety
regulations!

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Pin Designation of Connector X1

Pin Des. Function Pin Des. Function

1 VDC +15V for DC/DC converter 2 GND Ground

3 VDC +15V for DC/DC converter 4 GND Ground
5 VDD +15V for electronic input side 6 GND Ground
7 VDD +15V for electronic input side 8 GND Ground
9 SO2 Status output channel 2 (IGBT 1) 10 GND Ground
11 InB Input B 12 GND Ground
13 SO1 Status output channel 1 (IGBT 2) 14 GND Ground
15 InA Input A 16 GND Ground
17 Mod Input Mod (mode selection) 18 GND Ground
19 ResetQ Reset 20 GND Ground

Note: channel 1 corresponds to IGBT 2 and channel 2 to IGBT 1

Recommended Interface Circuitry for Connector X1

VDC
+15V X1 - 1
GND
X1 - 2
VDC
X1 - 3
GND
X1 - 4
VDD
X1 - 5
GND
X1 - 6
VDD
X1 - 7
R1 GND
X1 - 8
12k SO2 (CH2)
Error 2 X1 - 9
GND
X1 - 10
InB (CH2)
PWM 2 X1 - 11
R2 GND
X1 - 12
12k SO1 (CH1)
Error 1 X1 - 13
GND
X1 - 14
InA (CH1)
PWM 1 X1 - 15
GND
X1 - 16
Modus
Mode X1 - 17
GND
X1 - 18
Reset (Stop)
X1 - 19
GND
X1 - 20
Reset Q1

GND

Fig. 3 Recommended user interface of 2SB315

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2SB315 IGBT module

X1 - 1
=
X1 - 2
=
X1 - 3
X1 - 4
X1 - 5
X1 - 6
C1
X1 - 7
X1 - 8
X1 - 9 Vce
Rg
X1 - 10
X1 - 11 E1
X1 - 12
C2
X1 - 13 Vce
X1 - 14
X1 - 15 Rg
X1 - 16
E2
X1 - 17
X1 - 18
X1 - 19
X1 - 20

GND

Fig. 4 Block diagram covering SCALE driver 2SB315A and IGBT module

Description of Interface X1

General
The X1 interface of the driver 2SB315A is very simple and easy to use.
The driver has the following terminals:
2 x PWM inputs (drive signals)
2 x status outputs (failure returns)
4 x power-supply terminals (but only one 15V power supply is needed)
1 x reset input
1 x mode selection (half-bridge mode / direct mode)
The driver is equipped with a 20-pin interface connector. All even-numbered pins are
used as the GND connection. The odd-numbered pins are used as inputs or status
outputs. It is recommended to use a 20-pin twisted flat cable. Each input and output
signal is then twisted with its own GND wire. All GND pins are connected together on
the SCALE driver and should be also connected on the control-board side. This

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arrangement produces a very low-inductance connection with high immunity against

interference.
For improved noise immunity, the driver’s input signals have 15V levels (The 5V
operating mode of the SCALE chipset is not available for this driver) .
All inputs have Schmitt-trigger characteristics and are ESD-protected by diodes.

VDC terminal
The driver has two VDC terminals on the interface connector to supply the DC-DC
converters for the secondary sides.
As the driver delivers a total power of 2 x 3W = 6W, the maximum input current drawn
from the +15V supply is approx. 0.5A (total for terminals VDC and VDD).

VDD terminal
The driver has two VDD terminals on the interface connector to supply the input side of
the electronics.
The VDD and VDC terminals can be connected to a single +15V power supply. A
terminal is split into separate pins only for testing.

Mod (input, mode selection)

The Mod input allows the operating mode to be selected.

Half-bridge mode
If input Mod is low (connected to GND), half-bridge mode is selected, see Fig. 5. In this
mode, the inputs InA and InB have the following functions: InA is the PWM signal input
while InB acts as the enable input.
When input InB is low, both channels are blocked. If it goes high, both channels are
enabled and follow the signal on the input InA. At the transition of InA from low to
high, channel 1 (IGBT 2) turns off immediately and channel 2 (IGBT 1) turns on after a
dead time. The dead times are set by RC networks on the 2SB315.

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PWM +15V
(InA)
0V

Enable +15V
(InB)
0V
Both channels OFF
Gate +15V
channel 2
(IGBT 1)
-15V

Gate +15V
channel 1
(IGBT 2)
-15V

Dead time (both channels OFF)

Fig. 5 Signals in half-bridge mode

Direct mode
If input Mod is high (connected to VDD), direct mode is selected. In this mode, there is
no interdependence between the two channels. Input InA directly influences channel 1
(IGBT 2) while InB influences channel 2 (IGBT 1). High at an input (InA or InB) always
results in turn-on of the corresponding IGBT. This mode should be selected only when
the dead times are generated by the control circuitry so that each IGBT receives its own
drive signal. In this mode, both channels can be driven either synchronously or with
overlapping timing (i.e. for parallel resonance converters).
Caution: Synchronous or overlapping timing of both switches of a half-bridge basically
shorts the DC link.
The input Mod has a built-in 4k7 pull-up resistor and Schmitt-trigger characteristics.

ResetQ (input)
The terminal ResetQ has a built-in 4k7 pull-up resistor and Schmitt-trigger
characteristics. If not used, it can be either left open or connected via an additional
pull-up resistor to VDD.

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2SB315
Recommended user interface

Stop both channels

VDD

4k7

ResetQ
X1 - 19 X1 - 19

Reset Q1

X1 - 20 X1 - 20
GND
GND

Fig. 6 Recommended user interface, terminal ResetQ

If the terminal ResetQ is pulled down (by transistor Q1) to GND, then:
a) The error memory of the driver (in the interface chip LDI 001) is reset, assuming
that it had been set earlier
b) Both driver channels are blocked (both IGBTs are turned off)
The error memories are initially set when the SCALE driver starts up. They can be reset
by temporarily connecting the input ResetQ to GND (after start-up, controlled by a
power-up signal). An automatic reset is then applied to the first edge of the drive
signals provided that the blocking time has already elapsed (on both channels). So it is
recommended to wait approx. 2 seconds after connecting the supply voltage (VDD and
VDC) to the driver before applying signals to the inputs InA or InB.

InA, InB (channel drive inputs, e.g. PWM)

These are basically PWM inputs, but their function depends on the Mod input (see
above). These inputs only accept 15V logic (designed for high noise immunity). They
have built-in 4k7 pull-down resistors and Schmitt-trigger characteristics.

SO1, SO2 (status outputs)

The outputs SOx have open-collector transistors (see Fig. 7). When an error condition is
detected in channel “x”, the output goes to low (connected to GND). Otherwise, the
output has high impedance.
Both SOx outputs can be connected together to provide a common error signal (e.g. for
one phase). However, it is recommended to evaluate the status signals individually to
allow a fast and precise failure diagnosis.

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The outputs SOx can be connected to VDD via a pull-up resistor (the voltage at SOx
must not exceed the VDD level). The outputs SOx can handle a maximum current of
1.5mA. To ensure a clean logic signal, it is recommended to apply a filter and a Schmitt
trigger gate to SOx.

RC1 RC2 Mode Selector

3 6 7
V+
Channel 2
VCC 13 Transformer
Channel 2
VL Pulse 11
GND 12 Reset Stop Logic
9

Hi Trafo
VL 2
Dual Mode Interface
Error
Dead- Logic
Logic Error
Input A 4 Time
Lo
Reset Channel 1 Transformer
Input A Channel 1
Pulse 16
Input B / Enable
Input B 5 Logic
14
Status 2 8 Error Channel 2 Trafo
Interface
Status 1 1 Error
Error Channel 1
Logic Error

CONCEPT LDI 001 Reset

Fig. 7 Block diagram of the LDI 001

How the status information is processed

Each transition in a drive signal leads to:
a) An error-memory reset of LDI 001
b) Transfer of status information from IGD 001 to LDI 001
c) If a failure is detected by IGD 001 (during the blocking time), the error memory in
LDI 001 is set.

External reset
The error memory may also be reset by temporarily connecting the input ResetQ to
GND. Under a failure condition, the error memory is set with the next transition of the
input signal.

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Protection Concept

Only a brief overview will now be given of the functions of the SCALE driver chipset
used here. For further information about the chipset, refer to /1/.

Power-supply monitoring
An under-voltage monitoring circuit blocks the driver if the supply voltage drops below
about 10…11V. In this case, the IGBT is driven with a negative gate voltage to keep it
in the off-state. A failure condition is transmitted.
The monitoring is performed locally on each gate driver (integrated in the IGD 001).

Short-circuit and overcurrent protection

Each channel of a SCALE driver is
Driver equipped with a Vce-monitoring circuit.
Input +15V The circuit is inactive during the
Voltage 0V response time applied to ensure that
the IGBT is fully turned on (see Fig. 8).
In the event of failure due to Vce
IGBT +15V monitoring or power-supply under-
Gate 0V voltage lock-out, the IGBT is kept in the
Voltage -15V off-state for a blocking time during
which all drive signals are ignored. The
+Vdc blocking time is applied independently
to each channel by IGD 001. It starts
when Vce exceeds the threshold of the
IGBT Vce-monitoring circuit. With the next
Collector transition of the drive signal, the “error”
Voltage Vth information is transferred for storage to
0V the LDI 001, whose respective status
output goes to the failure condition.
The driver then ignores any drive
Response time
signal. The error information is reset
Fig. 8 Turn-on characteristic of an IGBT only at a first transition in the drive
signal or by pulling the ResetQ terminal
to GND after the blocking time expires.

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Active clamping
Simple gate driving leads to the typical turn-off transition shown in Fig. 9. Turn-off with
a specified minimum gate resistance is critical, particularly for trench-gate IGBT chips,
due to the high rate of decrease of the collector current. To minimize turn-off losses,
therefore, the 2SB315A features an active clamping function. This technique is designed
to turn the IGBT on partially whenever the collector-emitter voltage exceeds a
predefined threshold. The IGBT is then kept in linear operation. The basic circuitry is
shown in Fig. 10.

Vce(max) = Vdc + Vtr

Ls1
D Vce Vtr
Ic
L
Id Vdc
Lesr Ls3

IL

Current Sense
Resr
0
t

Vdc Ls4
+ C

Ic Vge
0
Q Vce
Driver
Vge t
Ls2 t0 t1 t2 t3 t4 t5

Fig. 9 Test circuit (left) and typical switching characteristics (right)

Legend to Fig. 9
t0 = Initiation of the turn-off process
t1 = Start of collector-emitter voltage rise
t2 = Start of collector current drop
t3 = Maximum collector-emitter voltage
t4 = IGBT is blocking, start of tail current
t5 = End of tail current

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In comparison with other driving methods, active clamping allows enhanced utilization
of the IGBT modules during normal operation by increasing the switching speed and
thus reducing switching losses. Furthermore, active clamping manages the over-voltage
under changed operating conditions.
The active clamping function should not lead the user to forget about the inductances
of the power stack.

Iz
Dz
+15V Ic

Driver
Q
Rg

ID Ig

-15V

Fig. 10 Basic circuitry for active clamping

Bibliography
/1/ Description and Application Manual for SCALE Drivers, CONCEPT
/2/ The “SCALE” IGBT Driver, a new, scalable, compact, all purpose, low cost, easy-
to-use driver for IGBTs, H. Rüedi & P. Köhli, PCIM 1998 Proceedings
/3/ Data sheet 2SD315AI, CONCEPT
/4/ Data sheets of specific 2SB315A, CONCEPT

Note: All documents are available on www.IGBT-Driver.com

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The Information Source: SCALE Driver Data Sheets

CONCEPT offers the widest selection of gate drivers for power MOSFETs and IGBTs for
almost any application needs. The largest website on gate-drive circuitry anywhere
contains all data sheets, application notes and manuals, technical information and
support sections: www.IGBT-Driver.com

Quite Special: Customized SCALE Drivers

If you need an IGBT driver that is not included in the delivery range, please don’t
hesitate to contact CONCEPT or your CONCEPT sales partner.
CONCEPT engineers have more than 20 years experience in the development and
manufacture of intelligent gate drivers for power MOSFETs and IGBTs and have already
implemented a large number of customized solutions.

Evaluation Systems

The evaluation systems are designed particularly for development, verification,

qualification and testing. They contain IGBTs, driver boards and DC-link capacitors,
completely mounted and 100% tested. CONCEPT offers systems with various heat sinks
or without coolers.

Customer-Specific Systems

CONCEPT develops and produces complete power equipment and systems according to
the customer’s specifications.

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Consulting and Training

CONCEPT provides consulting and training services to customers on optimal procedures

in power control, ideal circuit topologies as well as general do’s and don’ts in the
development of power electronics.

Technical Support

CONCEPT provides expert help with your questions and problems:

www.IGBT-Driver.com/go/support

Quality

The obligation to high quality is one of the central features laid down in the mission
statement of CT-Concept Technology Ltd. The quality management system covers all
stages of product development and production up to delivery. The drivers of the SCALE
series are manufactured according to the ISO9001:2000 quality standard.

Disclaimer

This data sheet specifies devices but cannot promise to deliver any specific
characteristics. No warranty or guarantee is given – either expressly or implicitly –
regarding delivery, performance or suitability.
CT-Concept Technology AG reserves the right to make modifications to its technical
data and product specifications at any time without prior notice. The general terms and
conditions of delivery of CT-Concept Technology AG apply.

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Description and Application Manual

Ordering Information

The general terms and conditions of delivery of CT-Concept Technologie AG apply.

Related IGBT CONCEPT Driver Type #
See current list on www.IGBT-Driver.com/go/2SB315A

Information about Other Products

For drivers adapted to other high-voltage or high-power IGBT modules

Direct link: www.IGBT-Driver.com/go/plug-and-play
For other drivers and evaluation systems
Please click: www.IGBT-Driver.com

Manufacturer

CT-Concept Technologie AG
Intelligent Power Electronics
Renferstrasse 15
CH-2504 Biel-Bienne
Switzerland
Tel. +41 - 32 - 344 47 47
Fax +41 - 32 - 344 47 40
E-mail [email protected]
Internet www.IGBT-Driver.com
© Copyright 2005…2007 by CT-Concept Technologie AG - Switzerland. All rights reserved.
We reserve the right to make any technical modifications without prior notice. Version of 2007-07-09

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Authorized Distributor

Click to View Pricing, Inventory, Delivery & Lifecycle Information:

Power Integrations:
2SB315A-SMD/CT-168-3