Thursday 15 October 2020

All about power semiconductor devices

 Since semiconductors share properties of a conductor as well as an insulator, they are extensively used in the manufacture of electronic equipment and devices. Ranging from high power devices to power modules components, semiconductors can be found everywhere. Power semiconductor devices include mobile phones, TFT-LCDs, computers, etc. All AC and DC drives use power semiconductor devices, which helps them control and convert electrical power. Here are some of the advantages of using power semiconductor devices.


Advantages

  • Power semiconductors are highly efficient devices as they act as a switch in most applications and in both on and off modes, the loss of power is very less.
  • Power semiconductor devices have no mechanical moving parts, which means that there are fewer chances of failure, promising a long lifespan of the device (provided that it is operated under proper conditions)
  • Again, as there are no moving parts in power semiconductor devices, they require very little maintenance, thereby also helping reduce running costs and offering longer and better lifespans than other devices.
  • One of the reasons as to why semiconductors are used so extensively is because they possess the properties of conductors as well as insulators. These properties can be regulated with the changing temperature. Therefore, there is flexibility in the operation of these devices.
  • As compared to electromechanical converter systems, power semiconductor devices have a faster and more dynamic response.
  • The installation cost of power semiconductor devices is low because of their small size and lesser weight.

Application of Power Semiconductor Devices

These devices are used in electronic ballasts, UPS systems, power conditioners, high voltage DC transmission (HVDC system), rectifiers, power factor correction, and many more. Power semiconductor devices have become an integral part of today’s electronics’ ecosystem.

It is evident that power semiconductor devices are a better option for the long run. The advantages they offer are the reasons that have been steering people towards using these devices more than any other in the market.