Diodes Incorporated — Analog and discrete power solutions

Ideal Diode Controllers

Ideal diode controllers are extensively used in automotive applications to improve power efficiency and protect systems from reverse voltage and reverse current conditions. These controllers work with external N-channel MOSFETs—either in single or back-to-back configurations—to create low-loss rectifiers. This architecture significantly reduces power dissipation compared to traditional diodes or P-channel MOSFETs, while also providing robust protection against reverse polarity and reverse current faults where required. As a result, ideal diodes controllers offer a highly efficient and reliable solution for modern automotive power architectures.
 

Automotive Systems Protection Power Supply ORing Battery-Powered and Backup Systems
Automotive systems must perform reliably in some of the harshest conditions, including exposure to reverse battery connections, voltage transients, and extreme temperatures. Our automotive-compliant Ideal Diode Controllers are built to address these challenges. Strategically placed at the power input of automotive modules, these controllers protect critical systems—such as infotainment units, ADAS cameras, and lighting control modules—from reverse current damage, while also minimizing voltage drops and power losses to ensure optimal efficiency. In mission-critical applications such as servers, telecommunications infrastructure, and industrial control systems, uninterrupted power delivery is essential. Diodes Incorporated’s Ideal Diode Controller solutions support active ORing functionality by selecting the optimal power source and preventing reverse current flow between inputs. This advanced approach offers significantly higher efficiency than traditional diode-based methods, minimizing heat generation and ensuring reliable, low-loss power delivery to the load. In portable electronics and battery-powered systems, power efficiency is critical. Diodes Incorporated offers Ideal Diode Controller solutions featuring ultra-low quiescent current to conserve standby power and extend battery life. With an exceptionally low forward voltage drop, these controllers deliver maximum runtime while providing robust reverse current blocking and fault isolation. This makes them ideal for applications where both energy efficiency and system protection are critical.

Key Features:

Reverse Polarity Protection Reverse Current Blocking Low Forward Voltage Drop
Prevents damage from reverse polarity battery connections Blocks current from flowing backward, protecting sensitive components Mitigates power loss and voltage drops, enhancing overall efficiency

Related App Notes:

  1. Understanding the Different Approaches to Input Reverse Voltage Protection (RVP)
  2. MOSFET Selection Guide for Ideal Diode Controllers