Why gallium nitride is the next big thing in semiconductors

EEworldonline.com Editor-in Chief Aimee Kalnoskas on why these wide bandgap semis are exploding in popularity.

Wide band gap semiconductors like gallium nitride appear to be a case where you can have your cake and eat it too. With a high breakdown voltage, and a higher switching frequency compared to silicon, the technology would lend itself to multiple applications, but GaN devices also offer higher power density and high thermal conductivity, making them uniquely adaptable to both power and signal applications.

EEworldonline.com editor-in-chief Aimee Kalnoskas explains how and why it works in conversation with engineering.com’s Jim Anderton. 

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Written by

James Anderton

Jim Anderton is the Director of Content for ENGINEERING.com. Mr. Anderton was formerly editor of Canadian Metalworking Magazine and has contributed to a wide range of print and on-line publications, including Design Engineering, Canadian Plastics, Service Station and Garage Management, Autovision, and the National Post. He also brings prior industry experience in quality and part design for a Tier One automotive supplier.