STMicroelectronics Releases 188W MASTERGAN GaN Fast Charger Reference Design

STMicroelectronics has officially launched a new reference design for a 188W fast charger, employing its MASTERGAN Gallium Nitride (GaN) technology. This cutting-edge design is poised to revolutionize the fast-charging market with its compact size, high performance, and superior integration.

The charger from Good-she incorporates an STMicroelectronics PFC+LLC dual solution, using GaN switches for PFC boost and a GaN half-bridge for the LLC power supply. This ensures a robust and efficient power delivery system with a synchronous rectification controller also supplied by STMicroelectronics, stabilizing the fixed voltage output.

Central to the charger's innovative features is the STNRG011, a digital multimode PFC and LLC resonant controller, equipped with ST's patented time shift control mode. This controller not only reduces standby power consumption with its built-in features but also optimizes input voltage and minimizes total harmonic distortion. It is designed to operate under critical conditions, enhancing efficiency.

STNRG011, a stellar component from STMicroelectronics, serves as a digital multimode PFC and LLC resonant controller, encapsulating the latest in semiconductor technology. This controller is specifically designed to enhance the efficiency of power supply systems, featuring a patented time shift control mode that optimizes performance under varying load conditions. It incorporates a high-voltage 800V startup circuit and innovative input voltage detection capabilities, which contribute to reducing standby power consumption significantly. This chip also boasts advanced features that ensure stability and performance across applications. With built-in capabilities for input voltage feed-forward, Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) optimization, and frequency limitation, STNRG011 operates in an enhanced fixed on-time mode which is critical for achieving low-noise, high-efficiency power conversion. Additionally, it offers a comprehensive suite of protections for PFC and half-bridge circuits, making it highly reliable for demanding electronics like PC power supplies, flat-screen TVs, and high-performance chargers.

Additionally, the charger leverages the capabilities of MASTERGAN4, a powerful GaN half-bridge chip from STMicroelectronics, which integrates drivers and two 650V, 225mΩ GaN switching transistors. This separation of control and power paths ensures optimal layout and functionality.

The unique design of the MASTERGAN4 features separated control and power paths, which simplifies the PCB layout and enhances overall system reliability and performance. This integrated approach not only reduces component count but also minimizes parasitic inductances and optimizes thermal performance, crucial for maintaining stability in high-power and fast-charging applications. The chip's built-in drivers ensure seamless integration, reducing design complexity and speeding up the development process for new power solutions.

With its advanced digital core and extensive protective features, the Gushi-branded charger sets new standards in the fast-charging sector, making it a prime choice for powering devices rapidly and safely.