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  • Author Author: rscasny
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How will GaN change the world of electronics design in the next decade?

rscasny

Silicon has been the kingpin of the semiconductor industry for a long time. And it should be: it has an ideal crystal structure for use as a semiconductor, But in today's world where ultra-low power and an extremely small package are two important factors in electronics design, maybe silicon has sort of reached its limits. What's the alternative?

 

As a semiconductor material, gallium nitride (GaN) is getting the attention that silicon once had. GaN works will in high voltage and high temperature applications. Plus it has high switching frequencies than silicon and attractive for its high energy efficiency.

 

So, how will GaN change the world of electronics design in the next decade?

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  • in reply to clem57

      wrote:

     

    Well the cost factor may be a little overrated. This is due to the process not being as mature as silcon manufacturing. But take a look at this article and set me straight,   .

    Clem

    The article is stating costs specific for power applications. They don't specify why they mention lower prices, but it may be because you can use smaller or no heatsinks due to lower switching loss and capacitors and inductors can be smaller due to the higher switch frequency.

     

    Inherently, you can't source the base component GaN cheaper than Silicium. Even with improved processes. The cost of GaN wafers will very likely come down if the technology catches on. But silicon will still be simpler and easier to source - and is abundantly available.