Infineon Technologies IRAM256-1567A2

Overview

IRAM256-1567A2 from Infineon Technologies (formerly International Rectifier) is a 15A, 600V integrated power module combining three Trench IGBTs and a 3-phase high-voltage gate driver in a single isolated SIP1A package. It delivers open-emitter outputs for motor phase U/V/W, features built-in temperature monitoring via NTC pin (VTH), over-current protection (ITRIP), and under-voltage lockout on all channels. Designed for energy-efficient appliance motor drives, it supports 0.5–1 kW AC induction motors operating from 85–253 V_AC.

For engineers reviewing the IRAM256-1567A2 datasheet, IRAM256-1567A2 pinout, IRAM256-1567A2 application in air conditioner compressors or washing machine drum drives, or IRAM256-1567A2 equivalent for 3-phase inverter stage replacement, this page provides verified electrical parameters, thermal limits, protection behavior, and real-world implementation context - including bootstrap diode integration, matched propagation delay (<75 ns), and CTI >600 isolation.

Technical Context

This hybrid IPM integrates six IGBTs (three half-bridges) with dedicated high-side floating supplies (VB1–VB3), low-side emitter sensing (VRU/VRV/VRW), and Schmitt-triggered 3.3 V logic inputs (HIN/LIN). The driver core implements cross-conduction prevention logic and internal dead time (220–360 ns), eliminating external timing components.

Protection architecture includes per-channel undervoltage lockout (10.4–11.6 V hysteresis), ITRIP threshold at 0.44–0.54 V with 150 ns blanking, and fault latching via FLT/EN pin. Thermal safety is enforced by an integrated NTC thermistor (R₂₅ = 47 kΩ, B = 4050 K) connected to VTH, enabling precise case temperature monitoring up to 125°C.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The IRAM256-1567A2 uses a SIP1A (Single In-line Package) with 29-pin layout and full transfer-molded construction. Its CTI > 600 polymer body and isolated baseplate eliminate need for additional creepage/clearance barriers when mounted to metal heatsinks.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar 3-phase IGBT inverter module applications.

Compared with FST410A and FSB50550, the IRAM256-1567A2 uniquely combines 15 A current capability, integrated ITRIP fault detection with programmable blanking, and factory-calibrated NTC output - making it optimal for appliance OEMs requiring drop-in reliability and reduced qualification effort.

Availability

IRAM256-1567A2 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for air conditioner compressor drives, washing machine drum motor controls, and dishwasher circulation pump inverters requiring stable component supply across multi-year production cycles.

Supply support for IRAM256-1567A2 includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

Infineon Technologies is a global semiconductor leader specializing in power management, sensor, and automotive ICs, with roots in International Rectifier's high-voltage power device heritage.

The IRAM series was developed specifically for cost-sensitive, high-volume white goods applications - delivering integrated motor drive functionality with industrial-grade isolation, thermal resilience, and protection integrity in compact SIP packages.

FAQ

What is the maximum recommended DC bus voltage for continuous operation?

The IRAM256-1567A2 is rated for 600 V blocking voltage and specifies V+ (positive bus input) absolute maximum at 450 V. Continuous operation at 450 V DC is permitted per datasheet Section "Absolute Maximum Ratings", provided thermal limits (T_C ≤ 125°C) and SOA constraints (e.g., RBSOA, SCSOA) are observed. Derating is required above 400 V for high-temperature or high-duty-cycle conditions.

How does the ITRIP protection function differ from traditional over-current shutdown?

The ITRIP pin implements a voltage-threshold-based current fault detection with 150 ns blanking time after PWM edges to suppress false triggers from switching transients. When V_ITRIP exceeds 0.49 V (typ.), the driver disables all six outputs within 1.5 µs and asserts FLT/EN low. Unlike latch-only schemes, recovery requires EN pin re-enablement or power cycle - ensuring controlled restart after fault clearance.

Can the NTC thermistor (VTH pin) be used for closed-loop thermal regulation?

Yes - the integrated NTC (R₂₅ = 47 kΩ, B = 4050 K) provides calibrated resistance vs. temperature data across –40°C to +125°C. By applying a known bias current (e.g., 10 µA) and measuring VTH voltage, microcontrollers can compute real-time case temperature with ±1.5°C accuracy. This enables dynamic switching frequency reduction or torque limiting before reaching thermal shutdown thresholds.

What is the purpose of the VRU, VRV, and VRW pins, and how should they be routed?

VRU/VRV/VRW are Kelvin-sense connections to the low-side emitter nodes of each half-bridge. They must be routed with separate, low-inductance traces directly to shunt resistors (or current transformers) - never shared with power return paths. This preserves accuracy in phase current measurement by eliminating voltage drop errors from high di/dt return currents, critical for field-oriented control (FOC) algorithms in inverter-driven motors.