SiC power semiconductor devices getting into mainstream

Power semiconductor usage in cars undergoing a major shift, silicon MOSFETs and IGBTs are replaced by Silicon Carbide power semiconductor devices. In EV and hybrid cars, the use of such devices is more relevant due to the power efficiency improvements. Not only the power efficiency and also size of the SiC semiconductor device is also smaller, and due to higher switching frequency ability, the power supply system built out of silicon carbide devices requires smaller inductors and capacitors saving space significantly. SiC does not require freewheeling diodes which are required in case of IGBT Power circuits. Due to lower switching losses, SiC devices generate lesser heat saving heatsinks. SiC also withstand higher voltages. So there are plenty of benefits except for the cost of the device, which tend to go down with volumes demand going up. The best solar PV inverters in the market have already using SiC or semiconductors. To tell you some of the latest new-product announcements, STMicroelectronics is offering a range of SiC devices. ST started SiC device offering in the year 2014, Which were fabricated on a 4 inch wafers. ST plans to make by end of 2016 SiC diodes and MOSFETs on a 6 inch wafer. STMicroelectronics sampling now STPSC10H12D 1200V SiC in diode in TO-220AC package to some of its customers with volume production planned in the fourth quarter of 2016. T...