MOSFETbridger

MOSFETbridger is an informal term used to describe a circuit block or module that arranges power MOSFETs into a bridge configuration to control bidirectional current or to provide a controlled switching path in DC power electronics. It is not a formal, standardized component but rather a conceptual description that can apply to various implementations of MOSFET bridges, including H-bridges and related configurations. Overview and function A MOSFETbridger typically uses four MOSFETs arranged in a bridge (often an H-bridge) to enable switching of a load in either direction or to form a bridge for power conversion. The module may include gate-drive circuitry, level shifting for high-side devices, bootstrap capacitors, and protection features. When high-side N-channel devices are used, a gate-drive stage provides a voltage higher than the supply to turn the high-side transistors on and off. The bridger may also integrate timing logic to ensure dead time between opposite switches, reducing shoot-through, and it can incorporate sensing and protection functions. Components and features Common elements include MOSFETs (N- or P-channel for convenience, often N-channel on both sides with a driver), gate drivers or isolating drivers, bootstrap circuits or isolated supplies, dead-time control, overcurrent/overvoltage protection, undervoltage lockout, and current sensing. Some MOSFETbridgers also integrate braking, regenerative energy handling, or feedback from current or position sensors. Applications and context MOSFETbridgers are used in motor drivers (DC and stepper motors), full-bridge power supplies, and class D audio amplifiers, where efficient switching and bidirectional power control are required. They can be implemented as discrete circuits, as dedicated bridge-driver ICs, or as compact modules. Design considerations Key considerations include voltage and current ratings, gate-charge and drive strength, switching frequency, thermal management, layout to minimize parasitics, EMI, and protection strategy. Designers choose between using P-channel devices on the high side for simplicity or N-channel devices with a bootstrap/high-side driver for efficiency. See also H-bridge, MOSFET driver, bootstrap gate driver, bridge circuit, phase-leg driver.