This reference design demonstrates the cost effective use of proven Zilog MCU for digital power control, integrating IXYS power and digital control software in one ready to use design.
Compared to hardware only solutions, digital control ones help simplify the system and provide power designers with a greater flexibility at the same time. This design makes use of the Z8F3281 microcontroller (MCU) from Zilog for digital control. It protects the load from transient voltage spikes emanating from the battery and also safeguards the battery from inrush current and short-circuit conditions at the load.
The load current can range from 0 to 20A, and the output voltage is programmable from 12 to 48V, using the MCU or an external resistor divider. The inrush current limit is set at 30A, and the surge voltage protection is up to 150V. At a load current of 20A, the efficiency is at 99% in the idle state. When the output voltage is at 24V, it becomes 99.5 and 98% at 48 and 12V, respectively.
The design consists of a power component board (3.6×2.6×1.6″) and microcontroller module (1.3x1x0.5″). The schematics and bills of material are also available.