SiC power devices with low on-resistance for fast switching applications

Abstract

Silicon carbide switching devices exhibit superior properties compared to silicon devices. Low specific on-resistance for high breakdown voltages is believed to be the most outstanding feature of SiC power switching devices. In this paper, MOSFETs and JFETs capable to block 1800 V with a specific on-resistance of 47 m/spl Omega/ cm/sup 2/ and 14.5 m/spl Omega/ cm/sup 2/, resp., are discussed. However, there are additional advantages making SiC devices attractive for the system designer. The authors present fast recovery of the 6H-SiC MOSFET reverse diode (Q/sub rr/ 30 nC, t/sub rr/ 20 ns) and fast switching as well as short circuit capability (1 ms) of vertical VJFETs. Finally, a short outlook to future SiC switching devices is given.