Skyworks Solutions Inc. SI8231BB-ASR

Overview

SI8231BB-ASR from Skyworks Solutions is a 0.5 A peak-output, PWM-input, high-side/low-side isolated gate driver with 2.5 kVRMS input-to-output isolation in SOIC-16 wide-body package. It features 45 ns propagation delay, programmable dead time via external resistor, and TTL-compatible input with >400 mV hysteresis. Designed for half-bridge IGBT/MOSFET drive in isolated dc-dc converters and onboard chargers.

For engineers reviewing the SI8231BB-ASR datasheet, SI8231BB-ASR pinout, SI8231BB-ASR application, or SI8231BB-ASR equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical parameters, automotive-grade qualification status (AEC-Q100), isolation safety certifications (UL 1577, VDE 60747-17), and real-world timing behavior under load and temperature variation.

Technical Context

The SI8231BB-ASR implements RF-based on/off keying across a proprietary silicon isolation barrier, enabling robust noise immunity without optical degradation or magnetic coupling limitations. Its single PWM input controls complementary high-side (VOA) and low-side (VOB) outputs with built-in overlap protection and user-programmable dead time (DT pin).

Each output channel operates independently with dedicated UVLO monitoring: VDDI UVLO threshold is 8 V (rising), VDDA/VDDB thresholds are also 8 V. Outputs default low during UVLO or DISABLE assertion, and resume within 7 µs after VDDI restoration. Propagation delay remains stable at 10–30 ns across –40°C to +125°C and 9–24 V supply range.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SI8231BB-ASR uses a RoHS-compliant SOIC-16 wide-body package (10.3 mm × 10.3 mm, 2.65 mm height) with 2.5 kVRMS isolation barrier and 8.3 mm minimum creepage.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar high-side/low-side isolated gate drive applications.

Compared with SI8231BD-ASR, SI8231BB-ASR trades isolation margin for cost and size efficiency in non-utility-grade applications; versus UCC5390SCDR, it offers tighter timing control and lower EMI susceptibility due to RF modulation architecture, but less peak current headroom.

Availability

SI8231BB-ASR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for onboard chargers, battery management systems, and isolated dc-dc power supplies requiring stable component supply across automotive and industrial production cycles.

Supply support for SI8231BB-ASR 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

Skyworks Solutions is a global semiconductor company specializing in analog and mixed-signal connectivity solutions, with leadership in RF, timing, and isolation technologies.

The Si823x family was engineered specifically for high-reliability isolated gate driving in electric vehicle power electronics and industrial energy conversion systems, emphasizing timing precision, noise immunity, and automotive qualification.

FAQ

What is the maximum switching frequency supported by the SI8231BB-ASR?

The SI8231BB-ASR supports up to 8 MHz switching frequency, enabled by its ≤45 ns propagation delay and fast rise/fall times (<10 ns typical). This capability allows use in high-frequency resonant topologies like LLC and CLLC converters found in modern EV onboard chargers and server PSUs. The SI8231BB-ASR maintains timing accuracy across temperature and load variations, making it suitable for designs targeting >500 kHz operation.

Does the SI8231BB-ASR require external components for basic operation?

Yes - the SI8231BB-ASR requires external bypass capacitors on VDDI, VDDA, and VDDB (typically 100 nF ceramic near each pin), a 0.1 µF capacitor across the DT resistor for noise immunity, and pull-down resistors on PWM and DISABLE if driven by open-drain sources. No external level shifters or optocoupler equivalents are needed, as all isolation and level translation are integrated within the SI8231BB-ASR die.

Is the SI8231BB-ASR pin-compatible with other Si823x variants?

No - while SI8231BB-ASR shares the same SOIC-16 wide-body footprint with SI8231BD-ASR and SI8231AD-ASR, pin functions differ across isolation ratings and UVLO thresholds. Specifically, SI8231BB-ASR uses 8 V UVLO and 2.5 kVRMS isolation, whereas SI8231BD-ASR uses 8 V UVLO and 5 kVRMS, and SI8231AD-ASR uses 5 V UVLO. Direct substitution without layout review is not recommended.

What safety certifications does the SI8231BB-ASR hold?

The SI8231BB-ASR is UL 1577 recognized (2.5 kVRMS, 1 minute), VDE certified to 60747-17 (basic insulation), and compliant with IEC 62368-1 for reinforced insulation. It carries AEC-Q100 Grade 1 qualification for automotive use and meets RoHS and REACH requirements. These certifications validate its suitability for safety-critical applications including EV charging and industrial power supplies.

How does the SI8231BB-ASR handle undervoltage conditions on its supply rails?

The SI8231BB-ASR implements independent UVLO on VDDI, VDDA, and VDDB, each with an 8 V rising threshold. If any rail falls below UVLO– (7.5 V typical), the corresponding output is forced low. During startup, VOA and VOB remain low until all supplies exceed UVLO+, then follow PWM state after tSTART (~1 µs). This prevents partial drive and shoot-through during brown-out or asymmetric power-up sequences.