Silicon Laboratories Inc. has introduced the Si8241/44 isolated gate drivers for Class-D audio systems with up to 1,000 W of output. The audio drivers are offered as providing high-fidelity performance, robust noise tolerance and precise dead-time control for a range of consumer, professional and commercial/industrial audio applications.

The devices' input-to-output isolation enables level-translation of signals without additional external circuits, while adjustable dead-time control allows precise synchronization of pull-up and pull-down signals to minimize THD. Peak output current capability is 0.5 (Si8241) and 4 A (Si8244), respectively.

Other key features include:

• PWM input
• Overlap protection
• High latch-up immunity, > 100 V/ns
• 1500 Vrms output-to-output isolation
• 2500 Vrms input-to-input isolation
• Up to 8MHz operation
• Transient immunity > 30 kV/µs

Samples and pre-production quantities of the devices are available in 16-pin SOIC narrow body packages. Pricing begins at $1.82 ea/10,000. An evaluation board (Si824xClassD-KIT) is priced at $250 (USD).

Silicon Laboratories Inc. , 877-444-3032, www.silabs.com

Related links:
Si824x information page
Audio driver and ref design video (YouTube, 6:18)