Infineon Technologies IRS2526DSTRPBF

Overview

IRS2526DSTRPBF 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 (1–4 s), run frequency (20–100 kHz), and internal frequency dither for EMI reduction. It delivers 180mA/260mA peak source/sink current and features non-ZVS protection, R_DS(on) over-current detection, and 1.8µs fixed dead-time - used in electronic fluorescent lamp ballasts.

For engineers reviewing the IRS2526DSTRPBF datasheet, IRS2526DSTRPBF pinout, IRS2526DSTRPBF application, or IRS2526DSTRPBF equivalent, key selection criteria include preheat timing accuracy, V_CC clamp voltage (15.6V), bootstrap MOSFET integration, EOL window comparator threshold, and latch immunity under line transients.

Technical Context

This IC implements a self-oscillating half-bridge control architecture with dual-channel gate drive outputs (HO/LO) referenced to floating high-side and grounded low-side switches. It integrates a programmable RC oscillator, internal bootstrap diode/MOSFET, and dedicated EOL (end-of-lamp-life) detection circuitry that monitors lamp current via a window comparator and timer.

The device uses fixed dead-time (1.8µs) to prevent shoot-through, applies ignition current limiting during lamp strike, and disables output on R_DS(on) over-current or loss of zero-voltage switching - all without external timing components beyond the preheat/run RC networks.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: SOIC-8 (Narrow, "MINI-8" footprint, 150 mil width).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with IRS2526DSTRPBF, IRS2526DSPBF offers identical functionality in tube packaging, while IR21531PBF sacrifices programmability and protection features for lower BOM cost and simpler layout - making it viable only in non-critical, fixed-frequency applications.

Availability

IRS2526DSTRPBF is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for fluorescent lamp ballasts, lamp ignition systems, and energy-efficient lighting designs requiring stable component supply and long-term production continuity.

Supply support for IRS2526DSTRPBF 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 acquired International Rectifier in 2015 and continues its legacy of high-voltage power ICs for lighting and motor control.

The IRS2526D series belongs to Infineon's fluorescent ballast controller product line, designed specifically for self-oscillating half-bridge topologies with integrated protection and lamp life management.

FAQ

What is the function of the ISENSE pin on IRS2526DSTRPBF?

The ISENSE pin monitors lamp current through an external sense resistor or R_DS(on) of the low-side MOSFET. It feeds into internal comparators for over-current shutdown, non-ZVS detection, and EOL window timing - enabling lamp fault response without additional op-amps or ADCs.

Does IRS2526DSTRPBF require an external bootstrap diode?

No. IRS2526DSTRPBF integrates a bootstrap MOSFET, eliminating the need for an external bootstrap diode. The V_BS pin connects directly to the bootstrap capacitor, simplifying layout and improving reliability in space-constrained ballast PCBs.

How is preheat time programmed on IRS2526DSTRPBF?

Preheat time is set by an external capacitor connected to the CT pin. Values from 1 nF to 10 nF yield preheat durations of approximately 1 s to 4 s, respectively - calibrated per the datasheet's CT vs. t_preheat curve.

What happens during end-of-lamp-life (EOL) detection?

During EOL, the ISENSE signal exceeds the upper or falls below the lower threshold of the internal window comparator for longer than the programmed timeout. This triggers a latched shutdown, disabling HO/LO outputs until power cycle - preventing unsafe operation with degraded lamps.