Embedded Computing Design Tear Down: Spigen ArcStation™ Pro GaN-based Charger

Spigen’s ArcStation™ Pro 20W Wall Charger is engineered with Navitas’ GaNFast™ technology that allows the ArcStation to be 30% smaller than the standard 18W iPhone charger.

The charger is based on Gallium Nitride (GaN) technology, which is a big step forward from previous silicon-based chargers. The model that I took apart was based on a European adapter. I picked it up when in Germany, so I got to use it briefly and did realize the stated feature set. But once I got back to the U.S., it was time to dissect it.

The key component, and the one that is a difference maker in this application, is the Navitas NV6113 power IC. It’s part of the company’s GaNFast family that is optimized for high frequency, soft-switching topologies.’