A new intelligent power module with microprocessor compatible analog current feedback, control input, and status output signals

A new series of intelligent power modules (IPMs) designed for miniature, high performance, low power (0.1 to 1.5 kW) 240 V AC motor drives has been developed. The new IPMs contain IGBT and diode power chips, a high voltage IC and low voltage control logic in a compact isolated base module. Level shifting and charge pumping provided by the high voltage IC allows the module to be operated from a single supply referenced to the negative DC bus. The module has built in interlock logic to prevent shoot-through conditions and protection against output short-circuit, abnormal supply voltage and over temperature conditions. The module uses four separate status output lines to communicate the activation of the internal protection. Analog output current feedback signals are also provided to allow high performance control of torque and motor protection. The control inputs, status outputs and analog current feedback signals are all designed for direct connection to a microprocessor.