openinverter forum

I am looking for a power driver to control the contactors in my BMS. I have some contactors around, but all without built-in economizer. Recommended PWM frequency by TE is around 16-20KHz to minimize current ripple.

The BTS6143D I used in a previous design is unfortunately not suited for high-frequency PWM.

Does someone have a suggestion ?
- At least 4 amps switching capability (cold coil inrush)
- 16-20KHz PWM capable
- High-side or low-side
- preferably stocked by JLC

I did already find the AUIPS7221 (up to 100KHz), but this is unfortunately not stocked by JLC.

How about using a TI DRV103?
https://www.ti.com/lit/ds/symlink/drv103.pdf

The DRV 103, is a good option.
Have not used it, but have used the DRV 102 with tesla contactors (had a lot of them laying around)
It just works!

viewtopic.php?f=13&t=131&p=4140&hilit=drv102#p4140

Thanks about the tips regarding the DRV102/103 ! Unfortunately the DRV102 is no longer produced (and difficult to source in the EU), and the DRV103 is rated for 3A, with a current limit at around 3.5Amps. According to the datasheet "Output current resets to zero when current limit is reached".

I could do some tests, but am worried that this limit will be reached with a 3.14 ohms TE EVC500 contactor.

I used BTS5215L in one design. It's a 3.7A dual high side switch and the outputs can be paralleled for 7.4A capacity. For a high side switch this makes it fairly cost effective. It's not suitable for PWM though.

You didn't list any reason why you couldn't use a simple MOSFET. Maybe a MOSFET + a PPTC fuse for short circuit protection? Certainly PWM capable, lots of current, cheap and stocked by JLC.

Using a simple MOSFET& polyfuse would be my backup route.

With all the PWM-controlled valves, servo's etc. in modern cars, there must me something more sophisticated (temperature protected, overcurrent switchoff,..) around for this task ?

Infineon have a wide range of smart drivers. I don't know if JLC stock them but they are always a good choice for me.