News: Microelectronics
29 September 2023
GaN Systems launches Gen4 GaN power platform
GaN Systems Inc of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada (a fabless developer of gallium nitride-based power switching semiconductors for power conversion and control applications) has introduced its 4th generation GaN power platform, targeting markets including consumer electronics, data centers, solar energy, industrial applications, and automotive.
The technology is claimed to set a new power efficiency and compactness standard, delivering a performance boost and industry-leading figures of merit. For example, with Gen4 in an artificial intelligence (AI) server rack, 3.2kW power supplies at 100W/in3 in 2022 are now achieving 120W/in3 with efficiencies above Titanium levels.
The Gen4 platform is also claimed to deliver more total bill-of-material cost savings compared with traditional silicon and silicon carbide solutions.
“Our lead customers have already realized the benefits of our Gen4 platform,” says CEO Jim Witham. “GaN Systems, in strategic collaboration with industry leaders like TSMC, has invested significantly to meet the ever-evolving demands of our customers,” he adds. “We are pioneering a transformation in product offerings, packaging innovations, enriched functionalities, and unparalleled performance across our markets.”
The Gen4 power platform is said to have the following benefits:
- >20% improvement in input and output figures-of-merit translates into reduced losses, enhanced efficiency, and more cost-effective solutions.
- Increased granularity in device specification, combined with a wide range of packaging options, including PDFN, TOLL, TOLT, and Embedded – allowing the correct Rds resistance and package combination for each application, consequently optimizing electrical and thermal system performance.
- 700V E-mode with what is claimed to be the industry’s highest transient voltage rating (850V), significantly enhancing total system reliability and robustness. This rating enables the semiconductor components to withstand user environment anomalies, such as voltage spikes, ensuring uninterrupted and dependable performance.
- On-state resistance ranges enable power systems from 20W to 25,000W.
