The ISL6596 is a high frequency, MOSFET driver optimized to drive two N-Channel power MOSFETs in a synchronous buck converter topology. This driver combined with Intersil’s Multi-Phase Buck PWM controllers forms a complete single-stage core-voltage regulator solution with high efficiency performance at high switching frequency for advanced microprocessors. The IC is biased by a single low voltage supply (5V), minimizing driver switching losses in high MOSFET gate capacitance and high switching frequency applications. Each driver is capable of driving a 3nF load with less than 10ns rise/fall time. Bootstrapping of the upper gate driver is implemented via an internal low forward drop diode, reducing implementation cost, complexity, and allowing the use of higher performance, cost effective N-Channel MOSFETs. Adaptive shoot-through protection is integrated to prevent both MOSFETs from conducting simultaneously. The ISL6596 features 4A typical sink current for the lower gate driver, enhancing the lower MOSFET gate hold-down capability during PHASE node rising edge, preventing power loss caused by the self turn-on of the lower MOSFET due to the high dV/dt of the switching node. The ISL6596 also features an input that recognizes a high-impedance state, working together with Intersil multi-phase 3.3V or 5V PWM controllers to prevent negative transients on the controlled output voltage when operation is suspended.
The ISL6596 MOSFET driver from Intersil is designed for synchronous buck converters, driving two N‑Channel power MOSFETs from a single 5 V bias supply. It offers fast rise/fall times, adaptive shoot‑through protection, and a high‑current lower‑gate driver capable of sinking 4 A.
The datasheet provides detailed pinout, block diagram, absolute maximum ratings, electrical specifications, functional description, layout guidelines, and package dimensions for both SOIC and DFN variants, helping designers implement the driver in high‑frequency, low‑profile DC‑DC converter applications.
| Supply Voltage (VCC, VCTRL) | -0.3 V to 7 V |
|---|---|
| Ambient Temperature Range (operating) | -40 °C to 100 °C |
| Maximum Junction Temperature | 150 °C |
| Typical Sink Current (lower gate driver) | 4 A |
| On‑Resistance (lower MOSFET driver) | 0.4 Ω |
The driver operates with a supply voltage (VCC, VCTRL) from –0.3 V up to 7 V.
The lower gate driver can sink up to 4 A typical current.
The device is recommended to operate between –40 °C and 100 °C.