PowerGaN devices by ST deliver slimmer, cooler and more efficient power products
STMicroelectronics has begun volume production of e-mode PowerGaN HEMT (high-electron-mobility transistor) devices that are claimed to simplify the design of high efficiency power conversion systems. Gallium nitride (GaN)-based products deliver better energy efficiency and enable more compact system designs in consumer, industrial, and automotive applications, added the company.
The STPOWER GaN transistors raise performance in applications such as wall adapters, chargers, lighting systems, industrial power supplies, renewable energy applications and in automotive electrification, claimed ST.
It has introduced the SGT120R65AL and SGT65R65AL as the first two products in the family. The industrial-qualified 650V normally-off G-HEMTs are in a PowerFLAT 5.0 x 6.0mm HV surface-mount package. They have current ratings of 15 and 25A, respectively, with typical on-resistance (RDSon) of 75mOhm and 49mOhm at 25 degrees C. Other characteristics are 3nC and 5.4nC total gate charge and low parasitic capacitances which ensure minimal turn on / turn off energy losses. A Kelvin source connection allows optimised gate driving. According to ST, in addition to the reduced size and weight of the power supplies and adapters, the two GaN transistors provide higher efficiency, lower operating temperature and extended lifetime.
The company will introduce new PowerGaN variants, i.e. automotive-qualified devices, as well as additional power-package options including PowerFLAT 8×8 DSC and LFPAK 12×12 for high power applications.
ST’s G-HEMT devices facilitate the transition to GaN wide-bandgap technology in power conversion. GaN transistors with the same breakdown voltage and RDS(on) as silicon alternatives can achieve lower total gate charge and parasitic capacitances, with zero reverse-recovery charge. These properties raise efficiency and enhance switching performance, allowing higher switching frequency that permits smaller passive components thereby increasing power density to result in smaller applications with higher performance.
The SGT120R65AL and SGT65R65AL in PowerFLAT 5.0 x 6.0mm HV are available now.
