Menlo Micro and Microchip Technology validate the first MEMS-based hot-switched power panel
Menlo Microsystems has announced in partnership with Microchip Technology that it has successfully completed the hot switching validation of a MEMS-based 1000V/500A (0.5 megawatt) relay panel that is the basis platform for future development of advanced circuit protection systems for the U.S. Navy.
This accomplishment marks the first-ever validation of a MEMS-based 0.5 megawatt hot-switched relay panel for naval applications in the United States and is a critical step in the Navy’s 10-megawatt Advanced Circuit Breaker program.
Menlo Micro has successfully advanced through the program’s multiple phases of advancing complexity, demonstrating the performance and scalability of its Ideal Switch technology for power applications. Validation testing of the latest phase was completed at Microchip Technology’s advanced power test facilities.
Menlo Micro’s Ideal Switch technology is fundamentally different from traditional semiconductor-based power switches. Rather than relying on semiconductor junctions, Menlo’s solution is a materials-science-driven, full metal-to-metal switching architecture, enabling true physical conduction when closed.
This metal-to-metal conduction dramatically reduces resistive losses and heat generation, significantly reducing or eliminating the need for heat sinks or complex thermal management systems. As a result, power control, protection and distribution systems can achieve higher power density, improved efficiency, and lower overall system complexity compared to conventional mechanical and solid-state alternatives.
Menlo switches will be part of the Microchip demonstrations at CES 2026, located at the Venetian Campus, Venetian Expo, Level 3 Meeting Rooms – Murano 3202, 3203 and 3204.
