Power Semiconductor Device - Common Power Devices

Common Power Devices

Some common power devices are the power diode, thyristor, power MOSFET, and IGBT. The power diode and power MOSFET operate on similar principles to their low-power counterparts, but are able to carry a larger amount of current and are typically able to support a larger reverse-bias voltage in the off-state.

Structural changes are often made in a power device in order to accommodate the higher current density, higher power dissipation, and/or higher reverse breakdown voltage. The vast majority of the discrete (i.e., non-integrated) power devices are built using a vertical structure, whereas small-signal devices employ a lateral structure. With the vertical structure, the current rating of the device is proportional to its area, and the voltage blocking capability is achieved in the height of the die. With this structure, one of the connections of the device is located on the bottom of the semiconductor die.

Read more about this topic:  Power Semiconductor Device

Famous quotes containing the words common, power and/or devices:

    “The last Night that She lived
    It was a Common Night
    Except the Dying—this to Us
    Made Nature different”
    —Emily Dickinson (1830–1886)

    “Nature has given women so much power that the law has very wisely given them little.”
    —Samuel Johnson (1709–1784)

    “The gods being always close to men perceive those who afflict others with unjust devices and do not fear the wrath of heaven.”
    —Hesiod (c. 8th century B.C.)