Ultra-compact, High-Frequency Power Integrated Circuits Based on GaN-on-Si Schottky Barrier Diodes

Gallium nitride (GaN) transistors are being employed in an increasing number of applications thanks to their excellent performance and competitive price. Yet, GaN diodes are not commercially available, and little is known about their performance and potential impact on power circuit design. In this article, we demonstrate scaled-up GaN-on-Si Tri-Anode Schottky barrier diodes (SBDs), whose excellent dc and switching performance are compared to commercial Si fast-recovery diodes and SiC SBDs. Moreover, the advantageous lateral GaN-on-Si architecture enables the integration of several devices on the same chip, paving the way for power integrated circuits (ICs). This is demonstrated by realizing a diode-multiplier IC, which includes up to eight monolithically integrated SBDs on the same chip. The IC was integrated on a dc-dc magnetic-less boost converter able to operate at a frequency of 1 MHz. The IC performance and footprint are compared to the same circuit realized with discrete Si and SiC vertical devices, showing the potential of GaN power ICs for efficient and compact power converters.

Automated summary

This article introduces the performance and potential of gallium nitride diodes, demonstrating the advantages of the gallium nitride-on-silicon structure and its application in power integrated circuits. By developing a new type of SBD, the pathway is paved for efficient and compact power converters.