System Solution Guide: On Board Charger (OBC)

On-Board Chargers (OBCs) are key components in BEVs and PHEVs, converting AC grid power into DC to charge high-voltage batteries and supporting both Level 1 and Level 2 charging, with a growing trend toward high-power designs for 800 V architectures. This solutions guide explores how modern OBCs leverage silicon carbide (SiC) MOSFETs, automotive power modules, and optimized gate drivers to improve efficiency, thermal performance, and power density.

Guide Overview

On-Board Chargers (OBCs) are essential for converting AC grid power into DC power to charge high-voltage batteries in Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) and Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs). These chargers support Level 1 and Level 2 AC charging at home or public stations, typically ranging from 3.7 kW to 22 kW, and can integrate with DC fast-charging systems. Key technologies, including Power Factor Correction (PFC) and high-voltage support, ensure efficient, flexible, and safe charging, with a growing focus on high-power OBCs for 800V battery architectures.

This solution guide provides a comprehensive resource for designing modern OBC systems. You’ll explore high-power designs using silicon carbide (SiC) MOSFETs and automotive power modules (APMs) to improve efficiency, thermal performance, and power density. The guide also covers optimized isolated gate drivers, such as NCV51563 and NCV51752, as well as evaluation tools like double pulse testers and hotplate boards for characterizing and optimizing device performance.

The guide further details complementary system components, including digital isolators, voltage and current sensing amplifiers, and CAN/10BASE-T1S transceivers for reliable in-vehicle communication. Download this solution guide to gain practical insights on semiconductor selection, gate driver optimization, and system integration for creating safe, high-performance, and cost-effective OBC solutions for next-generation EVs.