How to drive an IGBT with an optocoupler

dc/dc converterigbtinvertermsp430opto-isolator

What's the proper schematic for driving the IGBT (IRG4BC20UD) from a microcontroller (MSP430-g2553) pin through the optocoupler (FOD3184)? I am going to design a full bridge inverter to drive 9W CFLs (220V/50Hz)? PLEASE HELP!

Best Answer

There are many possible schematics. IGBTs are best driven with high voltage high-pulsed-current-drive 15V/-5V drive and of course you want isolation or you wouldn't be asking for an opto. You may be able to get away with +15/0V drive in some circumstances.

Here is one chip that will do the opto part and the driver part, and is similar to the one you are wanting to use. You still have to deal with giving it +15/-5 or at least +15V/0 relative to the emitter on the high side driver.

Probably for such a low power level a bootstrap diode would be an appropriate approach (limited to +V drive only). So, something like a UF4007 connected to a low voltage supply on the mains side. Ask if you don't know what a bootstrap is, or see most any of the IR application notes on half-bridge drivers.

The LED drive circuit most recommended is the shunt circuit (have your micro drive a transistor to shunt the LED, with a series resistor or resistors to the supplies).

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