Infineon ICE2PCS05G: An Advanced Standalone PFC Controller in Continuous Conduction Mode

In the pursuit of higher efficiency and power density across modern power supply systems, from industrial equipment to consumer electronics, Power Factor Correction (PFC) has become an indispensable stage. Among the key enablers of this technology is the Infineon ICE2PCS05G, a highly integrated, standalone controller designed specifically for implementing boost-type PFC pre-regulators in Continuous Conduction Mode (CCM). This controller stands out for its combination of performance, robustness, and design flexibility, making it a preferred choice for engineers.

The primary role of any PFC circuit is to shape the input current drawn from the AC mains to be sinusoidal and in phase with the input voltage. This minimizes reactive power, reduces harmonic distortion, and ensures compliance with stringent international regulations like IEC 61000-3-2. The ICE2PCS05G excels in this role by employing CCM operation, which is particularly advantageous for higher-power applications (typically above 300W). CCM offers lower peak currents, reduced Electromagnetic Interference (EMI), and higher overall efficiency compared to critical conduction mode (CrM) alternatives.

A core feature of the ICE2PCS05G is its use of average current mode control. This sophisticated control technique accurately measures and regulates the inductor's average current, rather than its peak. This results in an exceptionally low Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) of the input current and a near-unity power factor, even under challenging load conditions and across a wide input voltage range.

Beyond its control prowess, the ICE2PCS05G is engineered for robustness and system safety. It incorporates a comprehensive suite of built-in protection features, including:

Overvoltage Protection (OVP): Safeguards the system by inhibiting the gate drive if the output voltage exceeds a safe threshold.

Undervoltage Lockout (UVLO): Ensures the controller operates only within its valid supply voltage range, preventing malfunction during power-up and power-down sequences.

Cycle-by-Cycle Current Limiting: Protects the MOSFET and boost diode from excessive current stress.

Furthermore, the controller includes an innovative function known as "Burst Mode Operation." Under light-load conditions, where a full CCM operation is less efficient, the controller intelligently enters a burst mode. This dramatically reduces switching losses and minimizes standby power consumption, helping designs meet energy efficiency standards such as ENERGY STAR and the European CoC V5 tier-2.

From a design perspective, the ICE2PCS05G simplifies the development process. Its standalone nature requires minimal external components, and its predictable behavior allows for straightforward magnetic component selection. The availability of evaluation boards further accelerates time-to-market for new power supply designs.

ICGOODFIND: The Infineon ICE2PCS05G emerges as a superior solution for high-performance PFC stages, masterfully balancing advanced average current control for low THD, comprehensive protection for ruggedness, and intelligent burst mode for high light-load efficiency.

Keywords: Power Factor Correction (PFC), Continuous Conduction Mode (CCM), Average Current Mode Control, Total Harmonic Distortion (THD), Burst Mode Operation.