NSi6801 Isolated Gate Driver IC
What It Is
A single-channel isolated gate driver chip used to switch power transistors (MOSFETs, SiC, IGBTs) on and off safely and efficiently. It replaces older opto-coupled (optical) isolators with a more reliable, higher-performance alternative — while keeping the same pinout, so it can be swapped in directly.
Key Specifications
| Feature | Spec |
|---|---|
| Output current | 5A peak (source & sink) |
| Supply voltage | Up to 32V, with UVLO (under-voltage lockout) |
| Isolation | Galvanic isolation between input and output |
| CMTI (noise immunity) | ±150 kV/µs |
| Propagation delay | ~75 ns typical |
| Pulse width distortion | 30 ns max |
| Package | 8-pin DIP |
What It's Used For
This chip sits between a microcontroller (low-voltage control signal) and a power transistor (high-voltage switching device). It:
- Converts a weak logic-level signal into a strong enough pulse to switch a power transistor on/off
- Electrically isolates the control side from the high-voltage power side, protecting circuits and users from voltage spikes or faults
- Improves reliability, speed, and thermal performance versus traditional opto-isolated drivers
Common applications:
Motor drives, power inverters, switch-mode power supplies (SMPS), solar inverters, and industrial power electronics.
Package Includes
- 1 × NSi6801 Isolated Gate Driver IC (8-Pin DIP)