Lidow gives switching devices a GaN boost

3/12/2010 10:21 AM EST

Lidow's company is shipping enhancement-mode switches using this technology; depletion-mode switches, though easier to develop, are harder to use effectively, while enhancement-mode looks more like a standard MOSFET. The devices are targeting power supplies in server, data switches, hub, and even higher-power audio applications. Key to the cost-effective development is that these GaN-based devices, which are grown on top of silicon, can be built in standard CMOS fabs, and are thus priced like MOSFETs, not like GaN RF-signal transistors.

Packaging, also a key cost determinant for power devices, is also low cost with GaN, notes Lidow. Any heat sink (if needed) attaches directly to the die, since the process is self-isolating. Lack of a special package reduces thermal resistance, electrical resistance, and cost, of course.

Third-order Spice models are available for the GaN-based switching devices, along with reference designs and application notes, and are available via distributors. Lidow added that there are a few design-in differences when using this technology, which offers f_T of 2 GHz for the larger units and f_T of 5 GHz for the smaller ones: the GaN-based devices are fully enhanced at just 5 V, so you have to be careful you do not exceed 6 V at their gate. Noise and overshoot can therefore inadvertently trigger and turn on the switches, so it's the same design caution, once again: layout and attention to detail are critical. ♦