STMicroelectronics STEVAL-IPFC12V1

Overview

STEVAL-IPFC12V1 from STMicroelectronics is a 2 kW two-channel interleaved Power Factor Correction (PFC) reference design based on the STNRGPF12 digital controller, TN3050H-12WY SCR, and STGW20H65FB IGBTs. It delivers 400 V DC output from 90–265 VAC input at 47–63 Hz, achieves >0.98 power factor at 20% load, maintains <5% THD at 20% load, and operates at 60 kHz fixed-frequency CCM with analog cycle-by-cycle current regulation.

For engineers reviewing the STEVAL-IPFC12V1 datasheet, STEVAL-IPFC12V1 pinout, STEVAL-IPFC12V1 application, or STEVAL-IPFC12V1 equivalent, this kit supports rapid evaluation of mixed-signal (analog/digital) interleaved PFC topologies for high-efficiency AC-DC front-ends in industrial power supplies, server PSUs, and telecom rectifiers requiring programmable inrush control and thermal/overvoltage/overcurrent protection.

Technical Context

The STEVAL-IPFC12V1 implements a two-phase interleaved boost PFC architecture using STNRGPF12's dual PWM outputs phase-shifted 180°, enabling ripple cancellation and effective doubling of switching frequency at the input. Analog current loops provide cycle-by-cycle regulation while the digital voltage loop handles feed-forward compensation, phase shedding, burst-mode operation, and protection sequencing.

Inrush current limiting is performed via firing-angle control of TN3050H-12WY SCRs in a mixed bridge configuration, paired with STBR3012 rectifiers; the auxiliary supply uses VIPER26HD and L4931ABDT50-TR to generate +5 V and +15 V rails. Boost stages employ STGW20H65FB IGBTs and STPSC12065D SiC diodes for low conduction and switching losses.

Key Specifications

Availability

STEVAL-IPFC12V1 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial power supplies, telecom rectifiers, and server PSUs requiring stable component supply, fast prototyping cycles, and validated reference designs for high-efficiency PFC front-ends.

Supply support for STEVAL-IPFC12V1 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

STMicroelectronics is a global semiconductor leader headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, specializing in microcontrollers, power management ICs, analog devices, and automotive-grade components with broad industrial and consumer reach.

This kit belongs to ST's STEVAL reference design portfolio, engineered to accelerate development of digitally controlled, high-efficiency AC-DC power conversion systems targeting >600 W applications with stringent PF and THD requirements.

FAQ

What software tools are required to configure and monitor the STEVAL-IPFC12V1?

The ST eDesignSuite software-available free from st.com-is required to configure the STNRGPF12 controller parameters including voltage loop gains, feed-forward coefficients, protection thresholds, and inrush firing angles. Real-time monitoring requires an FTDI USB-to-UART cable (not included) connected to the programming port on the control board.

Does the STEVAL-IPFC12V1 include both power and control boards?

Yes-the kit includes the STEVAL-IPFC12P1 power board (dual-channel interleaved boost stage with SCR-controlled bridge, EMI filter, and auxiliary supply), the STEVAL-IPFC12C1 control board (hosting STNRGPF12, analog signal conditioning, and status LEDs), and the STEVAL-IPFC01A1 adapter board for programming interface isolation and LED status indication.

Can the STEVAL-IPFC12V1 operate in single-channel mode?

No-it is designed exclusively for two-channel interleaved operation. The STNRGPF12 controller firmware and hardware layout (including dual PWM drivers, matched inductors, and shared bus capacitors) assume synchronized 180° phase-shifted operation; disabling one channel compromises current balance, thermal distribution, and THD performance.

What protection features are implemented and how are they signaled?

Overvoltage (OVP), overcurrent (OCP), and thermal protection are implemented via dedicated analog comparators feeding STNRGPF12's fault pins. Status is indicated by red (PFC_FAULT) and green (PFC_OK) LEDs on the control board; fault latching and recovery behavior (e.g., auto-restart vs. latch-off) are configurable via eDesignSuite.