Skyworks Solutions Inc. SI8231BC-D-IS1R

Overview

SI8231BC-D-IS1R from Skyworks Solutions is a high-side/low-side isolated gate driver IC with PWM input, 0.5 A peak output current, 3.75 kVRMS isolation rating, and SOIC-16 narrow-body package. It integrates two independent isolated drivers using silicon-based RF isolation for robust MOSFET/IGBT drive in half-bridge topologies within solar inverters and onboard chargers.

For engineers reviewing the SI8231BC-D-IS1R datasheet, SI8231BC-D-IS1R pinout, SI8231BC-D-IS1R application, or SI8231BC-D-IS1R equivalent, key selection criteria include its 3.75 kVRMS reinforced insulation (VDE 60747-17), programmable dead time via external resistor, TTL-compatible PWM input with >400 mV hysteresis, and automotive-grade qualification readiness (AEC-Q100).

Technical Context

The SI8231BC-D-IS1R implements an RF-modulated isolation architecture with on/off keying, delivering 45 ns typical propagation delay and immunity to magnetic fields and EMI. Its PWM input directly controls complementary high-side and low-side outputs with built-in overlap protection and user-programmable dead time (via R_DT), eliminating external logic for half-bridge timing control.

Each channel features independent undervoltage lockout (UVLO) with 8 V turn-on threshold, and outputs remain low during UVLO or when DISABLE is asserted. Driver outputs support separate or common grounds and operate up to 24 V supply voltage, enabling direct interface with 12 V or 15 V gate drive rails.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SI8231BC-D-IS1R uses a RoHS-compliant SOIC-16 narrow-body package (5.3 mm width, 10.3 mm length) with 1.27 mm pitch, optimized for high-density PCB layouts in space-constrained power modules.

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-D-IS1R, SI8231BC-D-IS1R trades 1.25 kVRMS isolation margin for tighter cost control while retaining identical timing, packaging, and automotive qualification readiness; versus UCC21520DWR, it delivers integrated PWM logic and lower drive strength in a smaller footprint, reducing BOM count and layout complexity.

Availability

SI8231BC-D-IS1R is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for solar inverters, onboard chargers, and industrial motor drives requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and automotive-grade traceability.

Supply support for SI8231BC-D-IS1R 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, isolation, and precision timing technologies.

The Si823x family was designed specifically for isolated gate driving in high-reliability power conversion systems, emphasizing robustness, programmable timing control, and safety-certified insulation for automotive and industrial markets.

FAQ

What is the isolation voltage rating of the SI8231BC-D-IS1R?

The SI8231BC-D-IS1R has a certified 3.75 kVRMS input-to-output isolation rating per UL1577, validated for one minute. This rating satisfies reinforced insulation requirements per VDE 60747-17 and supports use in industrial inverters and automotive onboard chargers where 3.0–4.0 kVRMS isolation is mandated by system safety standards.

Does the SI8231BC-D-IS1R support programmable dead time?

Yes, the SI8231BC-D-IS1R supports programmable dead time via an external resistor (R_DT) connected from the DT pin to ground. The dead time value follows DT (ns) ≈ 10 × R_DT (kΩ), allowing precise tuning from ~100 ns to >1 µs. This feature is integral to the SI8231BC-D-IS1R's overlap protection and eliminates need for external timing circuitry in half-bridge designs.

What input logic levels does the SI8231BC-D-IS1R accept?

The SI8231BC-D-IS1R accepts TTL-level PWM input with >400 mV hysteresis on its single PWM pin. A logic high (≥2.0 V) sets VOA high and VOB low; a logic low (≤0.8 V) sets VOA low and VOB high. This direct compatibility enables connection to standard MCU GPIOs or PWM controllers without level-shifting components in the SI8231BC-D-IS1R signal path.

Is the SI8231BC-D-IS1R qualified for automotive applications?

The SI8231BC-D-IS1R is built on an AEC-Q100 qualified manufacturing flow and supports automotive PPAP documentation (AIAG-compliant), IMDS/CAMDS listing, and zero-defect methodology. While the "-I" suffix denotes industrial grade, the underlying process and testing meet automotive robustness requirements - making SI8231BC-D-IS1R suitable for OBC, BMS, and traction inverter designs pending final customer qualification.

What is the maximum supply voltage for the SI8231BC-D-IS1R outputs?

The SI8231BC-D-IS1R supports a maximum output-side supply voltage of 24 V on both VDDA and VDDB rails. This allows direct interfacing with 12 V, 15 V, or 18 V gate drive supplies used for silicon MOSFETs and IGBTs. Input-side VDDI is limited to 5.5 V, maintaining TTL compatibility while isolating high-voltage output domains in the SI8231BC-D-IS1R architecture.