Infineon Technologies IRSM836-044MA

Overview

IRSM836-044MA from Infineon Technologies (formerly International Rectifier) is a 3-phase, 250V, 4A integrated power module (IPM) with monolithic gate drivers, bootstrap diodes, and protection circuitry for brushless DC motor control in compact appliances. It integrates six Trench MOSFETs (R_DS(on) = 0.74 Ω typ), 3-phase HVIC driver, UVLO on all channels, ITRIP-based overcurrent shutdown, and fault reporting - enabling standalone motor drive operation up to ~150W without heatsink in space-constrained fans and pumps.

For engineers reviewing the IRSM836-044MA datasheet, IRSM836-044MA pinout, IRSM836-044MA application, or IRSM836-044MA equivalent, key selection criteria include its 12×12 mm PQFN package with 1500 V_RMS isolation, matched 0.7–1.5 µs propagation delay across all six channels, 3.3 V Schmitt-triggered logic inputs, integrated open-source shunt sensing, and dV/dt-optimized switching for EMI-sensitive small-appliance designs.

Technical Context

This IPM implements a fully integrated 3-phase inverter stage with high-side and low-side gate drivers sharing a common logic interface. Its internal architecture combines IR's low-R_DS(on) Trench MOSFETs (250 V BVDSS, 4 A continuous per leg) with a rugged 600 V-rated HVIC driver IC featuring cross-conduction prevention, blanking-timed ITRIP response (100–330 ns), and fault latching via open-drain FLT pin.

Operation requires dual supplies: VCC (11.5–18.5 V) for logic and low-side drivers, and floating VBx/VSx rails (VS+10 to VS+20 V) for high-side biasing. Input logic is 3.3 V compatible with hysteresis (VIN,th+ = 2.5 V, VIN,th− = 0.8 V), and EN pin enables/disables all outputs with 700–1000 ns turn-off delay after falling edge.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

IRSM836-044MA uses a 36-lead PQFN package (12 × 12 mm, 1.0 mm height) with exposed thermal pad on bottom side. The package provides reinforced isolation between high-voltage power terminals and low-voltage logic pins, and integrates bootstrap diodes and RCIN clamp circuitry internally.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar 3-phase motor driver IPM applications.

Compared with FSB50450 and STK5C4U36JR, IRSM836-044MA offers the smallest footprint (12×12 mm), integrated bootstrap functionality, and optimal balance of 250 V rating and 4 A current for 200 V DC bus appliance motors - making it uniquely suited for ultra-compact, cost-sensitive, and EMI-critical fan/pump designs.

Availability

IRSM836-044MA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for energy-efficient ceiling fans, compact HVAC blowers, smart dishwasher water pumps, and washing machine drain pumps requiring stable component supply and long-term production continuity.

Supply support for IRSM836-044MA 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 to develop and support its high-performance power semiconductor portfolio, including integrated power modules for motor control.

IRSM836-044MA belongs to Infineon's iMotion™-compatible IPM family, engineered specifically for cost-sensitive, space-constrained BLDC and PMSM motor drives in white goods and small appliances.

FAQ

Does IRSM836-044MA require an external heat sink?

No. IRSM836-044MA is rated for continuous 4 A per leg at T_C = 25°C with R_th(J-CB) = 3.7 °C/W, enabling operation up to ~150 W motor power without a heatsink when mounted on a 2-layer PCB with ≥20 cm² copper pour under the exposed thermal pad. Thermal derating applies above 25°C case temperature.

What is the function of the RCIN pin?

The RCIN pin accepts an external RC network to configure dead-time insertion or enable soft-start behavior. With a typical 10 kΩ resistor and 100 pF capacitor, it sets ~1 µs dead-time; exceeding 8 V at RCIN disables the driver outputs. This pin replaces discrete dead-time generators and simplifies timing control in BLDC commutation.

How does the ITRIP protection work?

ITRIP monitors voltage across a shunt resistor placed between VSx and COM. When sensed voltage exceeds 0.46 V (typ), the internal comparator triggers a 100–330 ns blanking window, then asserts FLT low and disables all outputs within 950–1300 ns. Recovery requires cycling EN or power reset - no auto-restart is implemented.

Can IRSM836-044MA operate with 3.3 V microcontroller GPIOs directly?

Yes. All logic inputs (HIN/LIN/EN/ITRIP) accept 3.3 V CMOS levels with guaranteed thresholds (V_IN,th+ = 2.5 V, V_IN,th− = 0.8 V) and hysteresis. No level-shifting is required. Input bias current remains below 160 µA at 4 V, ensuring compatibility with standard MCU drive capability without loading concerns.