Skyworks Solutions Inc. SI8238AC-D-IS1R

Overview

SI8238AC-D-IS1R from Skyworks Solutions is a dual-channel isolated gate driver IC with 4.0 A peak output current per channel, 3.75 kVRMS input-to-output isolation, SOIC-16 narrow-body package, and TTL-compatible dual-input (VIA/VIB) configuration. It delivers fast 45 ns propagation delay and operates across –40°C to +125°C for high-reliability motor control and inverter gate drive applications.

For engineers reviewing the SI8238AC-D-IS1R datasheet, SI8238AC-D-IS1R pinout, SI8238AC-D-IS1R application, or SI8238AC-D-IS1R equivalent, key selection criteria include its dual-driver topology (no cross-conduction risk), 3.75 kVRMS reinforced insulation certified to UL 1577 and IEC 62368-1, 5 V UVLO threshold, and compatibility with Si8235AC-D-IS1R and Si8238BC-D-IS1R as functional alternatives in narrow-body SOIC-16 layouts.

Technical Context

The SI8238AC-D-IS1R implements two fully independent isolated channels using Skyworks' proprietary silicon RF-based isolation barrier-eliminating LED aging and temperature drift issues of optocouplers. Each channel features TTL-level inputs with >400 mV hysteresis and supports direct connection to microcontroller GPIOs without level-shifting.

Unlike high-side/low-side variants (e.g., Si8233/4), this dual-driver version lacks programmable dead time or overlap protection logic; outputs respond immediately to input transitions with no internal delay, enabling synchronous or independently controlled gate signals for half-bridge topologies requiring external timing coordination.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SI8238AC-D-IS1R uses a RoHS-compliant SOIC-16 narrow-body package (5.3 mm width, 10.3 mm length, 2.35 mm height) with creepage ≥8.0 mm and clearance ≥7.0 mm per IEC 60664-1 for 3.75 kVRMS working voltage.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with SI8238AC-D-IS1R, SI8235AC-D-IS1R raises UVLO to 8 V-reducing risk of false turn-on in noisy 5 V systems but limiting compatibility with strict 5 V logic; SI8238BC-D-IS1R offers identical performance with alternate manufacturing traceability, making it a drop-in replacement where lot-level compliance reporting is required.

Availability

SI8238AC-D-IS1R is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for motor control systems, solar inverters, battery management systems, and industrial DC-DC power supplies requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and AEC-Q100-qualified alternatives.

Supply support for SI8238AC-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, timing, and power management ICs.

The Si823x family was designed specifically for high-reliability isolated gate driving in power electronics, targeting automotive traction inverters, industrial motor drives, and renewable energy systems where safety, speed, and thermal robustness are critical.

FAQ

What is the maximum switching frequency supported by SI8238AC-D-IS1R?

The SI8238AC-D-IS1R supports up to 8 MHz switching frequency, enabled by its 45 ns maximum propagation delay and fast rise/fall times (<10 ns typical into 100 pF). This allows clean PWM edge integrity in digital power control loops and resonant LLC topologies where timing precision directly impacts efficiency and EMI performance. The SI8238AC-D-IS1R maintains this capability across its full –40°C to +125°C operating range without derating.

Does SI8238AC-D-IS1R include built-in dead time or overlap protection?

No, SI8238AC-D-IS1R does not include programmable dead time or overlap protection logic. As a dual-driver variant (Si8235/8 series), it provides fully independent channel control with immediate output response to input transitions. Dead time must be implemented externally via MCU PWM peripherals or discrete timing circuits. This differs from Si8230/3/4 high-side/low-side versions which integrate DT control and overlap recovery.

Can SI8238AC-D-IS1R drive both N-channel and P-channel MOSFETs?

Yes, SI8238AC-D-IS1R can drive both N-channel and P-channel MOSFETs. Its outputs are push-pull capable with 4.0 A source/sink strength, allowing direct connection to P-MOS gates (with appropriate VDDA/VDDB polarity) or N-MOS gates in low-side or high-side configurations. For high-side N-MOS use, VDDA must be referenced to the MOSFET source potential - typically implemented via bootstrap or isolated DC-DC supply.

What safety certifications apply to SI8238AC-D-IS1R?

SI8238AC-D-IS1R carries UL 1577 recognition (5000 VRMS/1 minute), CSA certification to IEC 62368-1 (reinforced insulation, 2 MOPP), and CQC approval to GB4943.1 (reinforced insulation). These certifications validate its suitability for mains-connected industrial equipment, electric vehicle subsystems, and medical-grade power supplies where double/reinforced insulation is mandated.

Is SI8238AC-D-IS1R pin-compatible with other Si823x variants in SOIC-16 narrow-body packages?

Yes, SI8238AC-D-IS1R is pin-compatible with all Si823x SOIC-16 narrow-body variants including SI8235AC-D-IS1R, SI8237AC-D-IS1R, and SI8238BC-D-IS1R. All share identical pin assignments, footprint, and thermal pad layout. Functional differences (e.g., UVLO threshold, input type) do not affect mechanical or electrical interconnect - enabling design reuse and BOM flexibility across performance tiers.