Infineon Technologies IRS2526DSPBF

Overview

IRS2526DSPBF from Infineon Technologies (formerly International Rectifier) is a 600V half-bridge ballast controller IC with integrated high- and low-side gate drivers, programmable preheat time (1–5 s), run frequency (20–100 kHz), and preheat frequency (40–120 kHz). It delivers 180mA/260mA peak source/sink drive current and features internal R_DS(on) over-current protection, non-ZVS protection, and EOL window comparator for fluorescent lamp control in electronic ballasts.

For engineers reviewing the IRS2526DSPBF datasheet, IRS2526DSPBF pinout, IRS2526DSPBF application, or IRS2526DSPBF equivalent, key selection criteria include V_OFFSET = 600V, fixed dead-time = 1.8 µs, integrated bootstrap MOSFET, micro-power startup current (<100 µA), and EMI-reducing internal frequency dither.

Technical Context

The IRS2526DSPBF implements a self-oscillating half-bridge control architecture with dedicated high-side and low-side output stages referenced to floating and grounded sources, respectively. It integrates a programmable oscillator with frequency dithering, an EOL detection circuit with voltage/current window comparison, and non-ZVS fault latching logic that disables outputs upon loss of zero-voltage switching.

Startup is initiated via micro-power current into the VCC pin, clamped at 15.6V, while protection functions include R_DS(on)-based over-current sensing on both outputs, ignition voltage limitation, and latch-immune input/output buffers with integrated ESD structures on all pins.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: SOIC-8 (N) - surface-mount, 150 mil width, standard footprint compatible with automated assembly.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar fluorescent ballast controller applications.

Compared with IRS2153DSPBF and BD7951FJ-E2, the IRS2526DSPBF provides unique integration of EOL monitoring, programmable preheat timing, and internal frequency dither-enabling full-featured, safety-compliant ballast designs in a single SOIC-8 package without external timing or protection components.

Availability

IRS2526DSPBF is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for compact fluorescent lamp (CFL) ballasts, linear T5/T8 electronic ballasts, and UV-C germicidal lamp control systems requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle support.

Supply support for IRS2526DSPBF 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, automotive, and industrial control solutions, with legacy expertise in high-voltage analog ICs from its acquisition of International Rectifier.

The IRS2526DSPBF belongs to Infineon's fluorescent ballast controller product line, designed specifically for energy-efficient, safety-certified electronic ballasts requiring integrated protection, programmable timing, and EMI-compliant operation.

FAQ

What is the maximum allowable V_CC voltage for IRS2526DSPBF?

The IRS2526DSPBF features an internal 15.6V clamp on the VCC pin. Input voltage may exceed this value, but sustained operation above 20V risks thermal overstress due to increased power dissipation in the clamp circuit. Recommended VCC supply is 12–15V regulated or unregulated with appropriate bulk capacitance.

How does the EOL window comparator function in practice?

The EOL pin monitors lamp voltage or current via an external resistor divider. When measured values fall outside the programmed window-indicating open-circuit, short-circuit, or severe electrode degradation-the internal comparator triggers a latched shutdown, disabling HO and LO outputs until power cycle. The window threshold is set by external resistors per the datasheet equations.

Can IRS2526DSPBF drive MOSFETs with gate charges exceeding 50 nC?

Yes. With 180mA/260mA peak source/sink capability and 600V V_OFFSET, the IRS2526DSPBF can drive MOSFETs up to ~80 nC total gate charge using standard 1–2Ω gate resistors. For >80 nC devices, external gate drivers or paralleled MOSFETs are recommended to maintain <1.8 µs dead-time integrity and avoid shoot-through.

Is frequency dither enabled by default, and how is it configured?

Frequency dither is always active and internally coupled to the CT oscillator pin. Its depth and rate are determined solely by the CT capacitor value and internal circuitry-no external components or configuration pins are required. Dither reduces conducted EMI peaks by ±2% around the nominal run frequency, verified per CISPR-15 testing in reference designs.