Skyworks Solutions Inc. SI8237BB-D-IS1R

Overview

SI8237BB-D-IS1R from Skyworks Solutions is a dual-channel isolated gate driver IC with 0.5 A peak output current per channel, 2.5 kVRMS input-to-output isolation, and SOIC-16 narrow-body package. It features independent TTL-compatible inputs (VIA/VIB), no internal dead time or overlap protection, and operates across –40°C to +125°C for industrial motor control and isolated DC-DC power supply applications.

For engineers reviewing the SI8237BB-D-IS1R datasheet, SI8237BB-D-IS1R pinout, SI8237BB-D-IS1R application, or SI8237BB-D-IS1R equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical parameters, validated pin functions, confirmed automotive-grade alternatives, and real-world use context for high-reliability isolated gate drive design.

Technical Context

The SI8237BB-D-IS1R implements two fully independent RF-based isolated channels using Skyworks' proprietary silicon isolation barrier-no optocoupler or transformer required. Each channel supports bidirectional ground referencing (same or separate grounds) and accepts TTL-level inputs with >400 mV hysteresis for noise immunity.

Unlike HS/LS variants (e.g., Si8230/3), this dual-driver variant lacks programmable dead time or overlap protection logic. Its outputs respond immediately to input transitions with typical propagation delay of 20 ns (L-H/H-L) and rise/fall times under 8 ns at 12 V supply and 100 pF load.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SI8237BB-D-IS1R uses a RoHS-compliant SOIC-16 narrow-body package (5.3 mm width, 10.3 mm length) with creepage ≥5.5 mm and clearance ≥4.5 mm per IEC 60664-1. Pin 1 is marked with a dot; pin numbering follows standard SOIC convention (counterclockwise from top-left corner).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar dual isolated gate driver applications.

Compared with Si8237AB-D-IS1 and Si8237BC-D-IS1, SI8237BB-D-IS1R offers the optimal balance of robust 8 V UVLO margin and cost-effective 2.5 kVRMS isolation for mainstream industrial motor drives and mid-power DC-DC converters-without requiring PCB redesign or thermal derating.

Availability

SI8237BB-D-IS1R is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for motor control systems, isolated DC-DC power supplies, and solar microinverters requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for SI8237BB-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, timing, and isolation technologies.

The Si823x family was designed specifically for high-reliability isolated gate driving in power conversion and motor control, replacing aging optocoupler-based solutions with faster, more robust, and longer-lifetime silicon-isolated alternatives.

FAQ

What is the maximum switching frequency supported by SI8237BB-D-IS1R?

The SI8237BB-D-IS1R supports up to 8 MHz switching frequency per channel. This capability stems from its 20 ns max propagation delay and sub-8 ns rise/fall times at 12 V supply and 100 pF load. In practice, the usable frequency is limited by external gate resistance and MOSFET gate charge; for a 30 nC MOSFET, SI8237BB-D-IS1R enables clean 1 MHz operation with 10 Ω gate resistors and minimal shoot-through risk.

Does SI8237BB-D-IS1R include built-in dead time or overlap protection?

No, SI8237BB-D-IS1R does not include built-in dead time or overlap protection. As a dual-driver variant (per Table 2 of the datasheet), it provides independent, immediate-response outputs-unlike HS/LS versions (e.g., Si8230/3) which integrate programmable dead time and overlap recovery logic. Timing coordination must be handled externally by the controller, making SI8237BB-D-IS1R ideal for applications requiring asymmetric or dynamically adjusted dead time.

Can SI8237BB-D-IS1R drive both high-side and low-side MOSFETs simultaneously with separate ground references?

Yes, SI8237BB-D-IS1R supports fully independent ground referencing: GNDA and GNDB may connect to different potentials-including floating nodes-and VOA/VOB outputs remain functional. This enables true dual isolated gate drive, such as driving a high-side MOSFET referenced to a 400 V bus and a low-side MOSFET referenced to system ground within the same SOIC-16 package-critical for half-bridge and three-level topologies.

What safety certifications apply to SI8237BB-D-IS1R?

SI8237BB-D-IS1R carries UL 1577 recognition for 2.5 kVRMS isolation, CSA certification to IEC 62368-1 (reinforced insulation), and VDE 60747-17 (basic insulation). These approvals validate its suitability for end equipment requiring reinforced insulation per IEC 60664-1, including industrial power supplies and motor drives certified to UL 61800-5-1 or EN 61800-5-1.

Is SI8237BB-D-IS1R pin-compatible with other Si823x variants in SOIC-16 narrow-body packages?

Yes, SI8237BB-D-IS1R shares identical pinout and footprint with all Si823x SOIC-16 narrow-body variants (e.g., Si8237AB-D-IS1, Si8237BC-D-IS1, Si8238BB-D-IS1). This allows drop-in substitution for UVLO or isolation rating changes without PCB modification-provided the application does not rely on features exclusive to HS/LS configurations (e.g., dead time control or PWM input mode).