ADUM4138BRWZ-RL7 - Isolated IGBT Gate Driver | Analog Devices
MPN: ADUM4138BRWZ-RL7 ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $9.89 | $9.89 |
| 10 | $8.9 | $89.00 |
| 100 | $7.91 | $791.00 |
| 500 | $7.12 | $3,560.00 |
| 1,000 | $6.33 | $6,330.00 |
ADUM4138BRWZ-RL7 Overview
An isolated gate driver is a specialized integrated circuit that provides electrical isolation between the low-voltage control side and the high-voltage power stage, enabling safe and reliable switching of power transistors such as IGBTs and MOSFETs. The ADUM4138 uses Analog Devices' iCoupler technology, which employs chip-scale transformers to transmit signals across the isolation barrier, eliminating the need for optocouplers and providing superior performance in terms of speed, reliability, and power efficiency.
Key features of the ADUM4138 include a 6A peak output current, which enables fast switching of large IGBTs, and an integrated flyback controller that simplifies the design of isolated power supplies for the gate drive circuitry. The device supports a wide input supply range and includes protection features such as desaturation detection, under-voltage lockout (UVLO), and active Miller clamping, ensuring robust operation in demanding industrial and automotive environments.
From a technical perspective, the ADUM4138 employs a high-speed digital isolator architecture with a propagation delay of typically 50 ns, allowing precise timing control in high-frequency switching applications. The integrated flyback controller operates at a fixed frequency and provides a regulated output voltage for the gate drive, reducing external component count and board space. The device is designed to meet stringent safety standards, with a working isolation voltage of 1000 Vrms and a surge rating of 10 kV, making it suitable for applications requiring reinforced insulation.
Typical applications for the ADUM4138 include motor drives, solar inverters, uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), and industrial power conversion systems. Its high output current and fast switching speed make it ideal for driving large IGBT modules in three-phase inverters, while the integrated flyback controller simplifies the design of isolated power supplies for gate drive circuits. The device is also suitable for automotive applications, such as electric vehicle (EV) traction inverters, where high reliability and isolation are critical.
When designing with the ADUM4138, it is important to ensure proper PCB layout to minimize parasitic inductance and maintain signal integrity. The device requires a bootstrap capacitor or isolated power supply for the high-side gate drive, and the flyback controller can be used to generate this supply. Additionally, the desaturation detection feature should be configured with appropriate blanking time and threshold to prevent false triggering during normal switching transients.
Drop-in alternatives for ADUM4138BRWZ-RL7 — same package, pin-to-pin compatible. Different-package parts requiring PCB rework are excluded.
Variants in this series
Same-series models that are drop-in compatible with ADUM4138BRWZ-RL7 (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Isolation Voltage, Package, Technology.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
ADUM4138WBRNZ-RL
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
ADUM4138WBRNZ
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
ADUM4138BRWZ
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified✓ In Stock
$6.25 / Unit
View Datasheet →ADUM4138WBRWZ-RL
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
ADUM4138WBRWZ
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
ADUM4138BRWZ-RL
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
ADUM4138BRWZ-RL7 Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Technology | iCoupler |
| Number of Channels | 1 |
| Peak Output Current | 6 A |
| Isolation Voltage | 1000 Vrms (working) |
| Surge Rating | 10 kV |
| Propagation Delay | 50 ns (typical) |
| Output Voltage | 10 V |
| Package | 28-Lead SOIC-W |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40°C to +125°C |
| Automotive Grade | Yes (AEC-Q100) |
| Integrated Flyback Controller | Yes |
| Desaturation Detection | Yes |
| Active Miller Clamp | Yes |
| Under-Voltage Lockout (UVLO) | Yes |
| RoHS Compliant | Yes |
ADUM4138BRWZ-RL7 Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | VDD1 — Primary side supply voltage |
| Pin 2 | GND1 — Primary side ground |
| Pin 3 | IN — Input signal |
| Pin 4 | EN — Enable input |
| Pin 5 | NC — No connect |
| Pin 6 | NC — No connect |
| Pin 7 | NC — No connect |
| Pin 8 | NC — No connect |
| Pin 9 | NC — No connect |
| Pin 10 | NC — No connect |
| Pin 11 | NC — No connect |
| Pin 12 | NC — No connect |
| Pin 13 | NC — No connect |
| Pin 14 | NC — No connect |
| Pin 15 | NC — No connect |
| Pin 16 | NC — No connect |
| Pin 17 | NC — No connect |
| Pin 18 | NC — No connect |
| Pin 19 | NC — No connect |
| Pin 20 | NC — No connect |
| Pin 21 | NC — No connect |
| Pin 22 | NC — No connect |
| Pin 23 | NC — No connect |
| Pin 24 | NC — No connect |
| Pin 25 | NC — No connect |
| Pin 26 | NC — No connect |
| Pin 27 | NC — No connect |
| Pin 28 | NC — No connect |
Typical Applications
ADUM4138BRWZ-RL7 is suitable for 6 applications: Motor Drives, Solar Inverters, Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS), Electric Vehicle (EV) Traction Inverters, Industrial Power Conversion, Renewable Energy Systems.
Motor Drives
The ADUM4138BRWZ-RL7 is ideal for motor drives, providing 6A peak output current to drive large IGBT modules in three-phase inverters. Its fast propagation delay (50 ns) ensures precise switching, reducing dead time and improving efficiency. The integrated flyback controller simplifies the isolated power supply design for the gate drive, reducing component count. The device's high isolation voltage (1000 Vrms) ensures safe operation in industrial environments with high voltage transients.
Recommended
Solar Inverters
In solar inverters, the ADUM4138BRWZ-RL7 drives IGBTs in the DC-AC conversion stage. Its 6A peak output current enables fast switching of high-power IGBTs, minimizing switching losses and improving system efficiency. The integrated flyback controller provides a regulated gate drive supply, simplifying the design and reducing board space. The device's 10 kV surge rating ensures robustness against lightning-induced transients, making it suitable for outdoor installations.
Recommended
Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS)
The ADUM4138BRWZ-RL7 is well-suited for UPS systems, where reliable IGBT gate drive is critical for maintaining power quality. Its 6A peak output current ensures fast switching of IGBTs in the inverter stage, while the integrated flyback controller simplifies the isolated power supply design. The device's wide operating temperature range (-40°C to +125°C) and AEC-Q100 qualification make it suitable for demanding environments. The fast propagation delay (50 ns) enables precise control of the output waveform.
Recommended
Electric Vehicle (EV) Traction Inverters
The ADUM4138BRWZ-RL7 is AEC-Q100 qualified, making it suitable for EV traction inverters. Its 6A peak output current drives large IGBT modules in the inverter, enabling efficient motor control. The integrated flyback controller provides a compact isolated power supply for the gate drive, reducing weight and board space. The device's high isolation voltage and surge rating ensure reliable operation in the harsh automotive environment, withstanding voltage spikes from the battery and motor.
Recommended
Industrial Power Conversion
In industrial power conversion systems, such as welding machines and induction heating, the ADUM4138BRWZ-RL7 provides robust IGBT gate drive. Its 6A peak output current and fast propagation delay enable high-frequency switching, improving power density. The integrated flyback controller simplifies the isolated power supply, reducing component count and cost. The device's desaturation detection and active Miller clamp protect the IGBT from short circuits and false turn-on, enhancing system reliability.
Recommended
Renewable Energy Systems
The ADUM4138BRWZ-RL7 is used in renewable energy systems, including wind turbines and energy storage systems. Its high isolation voltage and surge rating ensure safe operation in high-voltage environments. The 6A peak output current drives IGBTs in power conversion stages, while the integrated flyback controller simplifies the gate drive power supply. The device's wide temperature range and automotive qualification make it suitable for outdoor and harsh environments, ensuring long-term reliability.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for ADUM4138BRWZ-RL7 — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | ADUM4138WBRNZ-RL | ADUM4138WBRNZ | ADUM4138BRWZ |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | 28-Lead SOIC-W | 28-Lead SOIC-W | 28-Lead SOIC-W | 28-Lead SOIC-W |
| Brand | Analog Devices | Analog Devices | Analog Devices | Analog Devices |
| Peak Output Current | 6 A | 6 A | 6 A | 6 A |
| Isolation Voltage | 1000 Vrms | 1000 Vrms | 1000 Vrms | 1000 Vrms |
| Propagation Delay | 50 ns | 50 ns | 50 ns | 50 ns |
| Automotive Grade | No | Yes (AEC-Q100) | Yes (AEC-Q100) | No |
| Integrated Flyback Controller | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Packaging | Tape & Reel | Tape & Reel | Tube | Tube |
Key Differentiators
- Integrated flyback controller (vs ADUM4138WBRNZ-RL)
- 6A peak output current (vs ADUM3223ARWZ)
- AEC-Q100 qualification (vs ADUM4138BRWZ)
Design Notes
For optimal performance, place the ADUM4138BRWZ-RL7 close to the IGBT gate to minimize gate loop inductance. Use a solid ground plane on the primary side and a separate ground plane on the secondary side, connected only at the isolation barrier. Keep the high-voltage traces away from the low-voltage control circuitry to maintain isolation integrity.
The integrated flyback controller requires a properly designed transformer for the isolated power supply. Ensure the transformer has adequate isolation rating and low leakage inductance. The output voltage of the flyback should be set to match the gate drive voltage requirement (typically 15V for IGBTs). Use a snubber circuit to suppress voltage spikes from the transformer leakage inductance.
The ADUM4138BRWZ-RL7 can dissipate significant power when driving large IGBTs at high frequencies. Ensure adequate PCB copper area for heat dissipation, especially on the secondary side. The thermal resistance from junction to ambient should be considered, and if necessary, use a thermal pad or heatsink. Monitor the junction temperature to stay within the -40°C to +125°C operating range.
Compliance Information
RoHS compliant per ADI product page. Not AEC-Q100 qualified; choose ADUM4138WBRNZ-RL for automotive.
