STMicroelectronics unveils smaller SLLIMM Compact power modules

STMicroelectronics has introduced a smaller line of intelligent power modules for air conditioners, heat pumps and appliances, with the first part now in production. The new package cuts size by more than 30% while keeping a 600V, 3-phase inverter bridge in a compact form factor.

Why it matters: - The new SLLIMM Compact modules give designers a smaller power stage for industrial drives, air conditioners, heat pumps and home appliances. - The reduced footprint can free up board space in tightly packed systems. - The compact package is aimed at maintaining efficiency, safety and reliability while shrinking the module size.

What happened: - STMicroelectronics introduced small low-loss intelligent molded modules, or SLLIMM, with direct-bonded copper in a new compact outline. - The modules provide a complete 600V, 3-phase IGBT inverter bridge in an 18.8mm x 32.8mm footprint. - STMicroelectronics said the footprint is more than 30% smaller than existing IGBT IPM in DBC packages. - The first part in the series is the 20A STGI15C60S. - The STGI15C60S is in production now.

The details: - The STGI15C60S targets low- and medium-power motor drive designs. - The package uses topside cooling for thermal efficiency. - STMicroelectronics says the module supports hard-switching circuit topologies operating at up to 20kHz. - The module includes two control ICs for the integrated high-side and low-side IGBTs. - The design also includes a bootstrap diode and protection circuitry. - The IGBTs use ST’s trench-gate and short-circuit rugged technology. - The freewheeling diodes are very fast soft-recovery types. - The module combines low saturation voltage with stable dynamic performance to improve energy efficiency. - High-side reference outputs on the signal side of the dual-inline package simplify bootstrap circuit layout. - The driver design and IGBTs are optimized for low EMI. - The package is fully isolated and rated at 2000 Vrms/min. - Protection features include undervoltage lock-out, smart shutdown, a temperature sensor and a comparator that can signal faults as a voltage output. - The STGI15C60S comes in a CDIPB-26L DBC package. - The part is priced from $4.35 for orders of 1000 pieces.

Between the lines: - STMicroelectronics is pushing smaller power modules without giving up the integrated features designers expect in inverter bridges. - The mix of thermal management, protection and low-EMI design suggests the company is targeting applications where reliability and board space both matter.

What's next: - STMicroelectronics directs customers to its SLLIMM Compact page for more information. - The new series could broaden into more motor-drive and appliance designs if customer adoption follows the first module.