GaN transistors enable amplification into the multiple GHz range
Cutting new ground for power transistors, the third generation devices have switching transition speeds in the sub nano-second range, making them capable of hard switching applications above 10 MHz. Even beyond the 10 MHz for which they were designed, the products exhibit good small signal RF performance with high gain well into the low GHz range, making them a competitive choice for RF applications.
Products in the family are available with on-resistance values from 125 mOhms through 530 mOhms, and three blocking voltage capabilities, 40 V, 65 V and 100 V. The transistors have several new features that further enable designers to take full advantage of the high performance gallium nitride FETs have to offer. The features include reduction in QGD thereby reducing voltage transient switching losses, improved Miller ratio providing high dv/dt immunity, low inductance pads for improved connection to both gate and drain circuits, orthogonal current flow between the gate and drain circuits for enhanced CSI reduction, and a separate gate return connection also for enhanced CSI reduction.
Examples of applications benefiting from the low power, compact, high frequency EPC8000 family of devices include hard-switching power converters operating in the multi-megahertz range, envelope tracking in RF power amplifiers, highly resonant wireless power transfer systems for wireless charging of mobile devices.
The EPC9027 development board, featuring the EPC8007 devices and the LM5113 gate driver IC in a half bridge configuration, is available now. Additional development boards will be available to support designers in evaluating and incorporating other EPC8000 family products into their power conversion systems.
Evaluation units of the EPC8000 family of products are immediately available in 10-piece packs starting at $430 through Digi-Key Corporation at https://digikey.com/Suppliers/us/Efficient-Power-Conversion.page?lang=en
More information about the eGaN FETs at https://epc-co.com/epc/Products.aspx
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