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Automotive photovoltaic driver for safety. April 2, 2026 A new compact driver solution improves reliability, speeds switching, and reduces component count in next-generation EV and high-voltage systems. A newly introduced automotive-grade photovoltaic MOSFET driver from Vishay Intertechnology, Inc. targets improved safety, faster switching, and lower system costs in high-voltage applications such as electric and hybrid vehicles. Designed for compact integration, the device combines reinforced isolation with high electrical performance, helping engineers simplify circuit architectures while meeting stringent automotive requirements. - Advertisement - The key features are: * 20 V typical open-circuit output voltage * 20 μA short-circuit current * Fast 80 μs turn-on time * 8 mm creepage distance with CTI 600 insulation * High isolation: 1260 V peak working, 5300 VRMS test voltage At the core of the device is its ability to deliver a typical open-circuit voltage of 20 V and a short-circuit current of 20 μA, enabling efficient and reliable driving of MOSFETs and IGBTs. With a turn-on time of just 80 μs - significantly faster than comparable solutions - it supports quicker switching, which is critical in high-voltage battery systems exceeding 800 V. The driver is built in a space-saving SMD-4 package while maintaining an 8 mm creepage distance and a mold compound rated at CTI 600. This combination enhances insulation reliability and supports reinforced isolation, making it suitable for demanding automotive environments. Its isolation ratings include a working voltage of 1260 V peak and a test voltage of 5300 VRMS. - Advertisement - The device is particularly suited for pre-charge circuits, battery management systems, and onboard chargers. By providing a higher output voltage, it eliminates the need for multiple drivers connected in series - a common workaround in earlier designs - thereby reducing component count, saving board space, and lowering overall system costs. Another notable feature is its optical isolation architecture, which derives operating energy from an internal infrared emitter. This removes the need for an external power supply on the secondary side, further simplifying system design and improving efficiency. With automotive qualification and compliance with environmental standards, the device also supports the transition from mechanical relays to solid-state alternatives in modern vehicle platforms. Akanksha Sondhi Gaur is a journalist at EFY. She has a German patent and brings a robust blend of 7 years of industrial & academic prowess to the table. Passionate about electronics, she has penned numerous research papers showcasing her expertise and keen insight.

Compact sensor enhances motion accuracy. March 26, 2026 Non-contact linear sensing enables precise displacement tracking in harsh industrial and mobility environments A new compact linear position sensor from Vishay Intertechnology, Inc. enables high-accuracy displacement measurement up to 40 mm, targeting demanding industrial, mobility, and automation applications. Designed with non-contact Hall Effect technology, the device delivers improved reliability and longevity while maintaining precise measurement performance in harsh operating conditions. - Advertisement - The sensor achieves linearity down to +/-1% of full stroke and a fine resolution of 12 μm, making it suitable for precision motion control systems where tracking small displacements is critical. Compared to earlier solutions limited to shorter electrical strokes, the extended 40 mm measurement range broadens its usability across applications such as infrastructure monitoring, robotics, and in-line industrial measurement systems. The key features are: * 40 mm displacement sensing range * +/-1% linearity, 12 μm resolution * Non-contact Hall Effect sensing * IP67 sealing with high shock/vibration tolerance * Analog and PWM output with instant power-on response Its compact form factor - measuring just 35 mm x 14.5 mm x 28 mm - supports integration into space-constrained designs. This makes it particularly relevant for embedded sensing in robotic grippers, medical devices, and industrial automation equipment. In addition, the sensor is being positioned for use in throttle and pedal position sensing in e-bikes and motorcycles, as well as in railway systems, marine equipment, and agricultural machinery. - Advertisement - To ensure consistent performance in challenging environments, the device is built with IP67 sealing and can withstand high vibration levels up to 20 g and shock loads up to 50 g. Integrated protection against reverse-voltage and overvoltage conditions simplifies system design by eliminating the need for additional external circuitry. The sensor supports both analog ratiometric and PWM digital outputs, allowing flexible interfacing with a wide range of control systems. Mechanical integration is further simplified with multi-orientation mounting options. Notably, the device provides immediate position output at power-up without requiring recalibration or initialisation, eliminating the need for backup power systems. With a typical supply current below 16 mA and standard 5 V operation, the sensor is optimised for low-power applications. Its long operational life, exceeding 10 million cycles, further enhances its suitability for continuous-use environments.

Vishay Intertechnology has introduced the 40 LHE, a compact linear position sensor designed for high-accuracy performance in harsh environments. The device features non-contacting Hall Effect technology, delivering linearity down to ±1% full stroke, 12 µm resolution, and a lifespan exceeding 10 million cycles. The sensor offers an electrical stroke of up to 40 mm, compared to 10 mm in previous-generation devices. Applications include infrastructure monitoring, digital farming, industrial automation, medical robotics, and e-bike throttle sensors. The 40 LHE features IP67 sealing, withstands vibration up to 20 g and shocks up to 50 g, and includes integrated voltage protections. As a "true power on" device, it reports position immediately upon power-up without requiring recalibration. Samples and production quantities are available now with 12-week lead times.