Pulse Transformers

Function: Transfer digital or high-speed pulse signals with isolation and impedance matching.

Key Features:

• High isolation voltage (1–5 kV typical)
• Fast rise/fall times (nanosecond range)
• Low insertion loss
• Wide bandwidth (up to several hundred MHz)
• No DC current transfer – blocks DC, passes pulses

Applications:

• Digital isolators in power electronics (e.g., gate drivers for MOSFETs/IGBTs)
• Signal isolation in communication interfaces (RS-485, CAN, Ethernet)
• Pulse shaping and coupling in radar and industrial controls
• Medical equipment requiring patient isolation

Core Types: Ferrite cores (NiZn or MnZn) for high-frequency performance.

Turns Ratio: Typically 1:1, but can be customized (e.g., 1:2 for level shifting).

Important Parameters:

• Pulse fidelity (minimal overshoot/ringing)
• Isolation rating
• Maximum pulse repetition rate
• Common-mode transient immunity (CMTI)