Discrete semiconductors are individual electronic components with single semiconductor functions, distinct from integrated circuits (ICs). They serve as fundamental building blocks in electronic systems, enabling core operations such as switching, amplification, and voltage regulation. Their reliability, efficiency, and scalability make them critical in power electronics, signal processing, and industrial automation.
| Type | Functional Characteristics | Application Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Diodes | Unidirectional current flow, rectification, voltage clamping | Power supplies, radio demodulation, LED drivers |
| Bipolar Junction Transistors (BJTs) | Current-controlled amplification, switching | Audio amplifiers, analog switches, motor drivers |
| Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor FETs (MOSFETs) | Voltage-controlled high-speed switching, low on-resistance | Power converters, electric vehicles, RF transmitters |
| Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistors (IGBTs) | Combines BJT and MOSFET advantages for high-voltage switching | Traction inverters, renewable energy systems, industrial welding |
| Thyristors/SCRs | Latching current flow after triggering, high-current handling | AC power control, dimmers, HVDC transmission |
Discrete semiconductors typically consist of:
Advanced packaging solutions (e.g., TO-247, D2PAK) optimize thermal dissipation and electrical performance.
| Parameter | Importance |
|---|---|
| Max Operating Voltage (Vmax) | Determines breakdown resistance and safety margin |
| Continuous Current (Ic) | Defines load capacity and thermal stability |
| Power Dissipation (Pd) | Impacts efficiency and heatsink requirements |
| Switching Frequency (fsw) | Limits high-speed operation performance |
| On-State Resistance (Rds(on)) | Affects conduction losses in MOSFETs/IGBTs |
| Forward Voltage Drop (Vf) | Crucial for diode efficiency in power systems |
Key industries and equipment:
| Manufacturer | Representative Product |
|---|---|
| Infineon Technologies | CoolMOS C7 series (650V SiC MOSFETs) |
| STMicroelectronics | STPOWER IGBTs (AGBT2 series for EVs) |
| ON Semiconductor | NVMFS5C471N (80V trench MOSFET) |
| ROHM Semiconductor | SCS220AH (1200V SiC Schottky diode) |
| Toshiba Electronic Devices | TK15A60D (600V super junction MOSFET) |
Key factors for component selection:
Case Study: For a 3.6kW DC-DC converter, select SiC MOSFETs with Rds(on) < 40m and Vmax > 650V to achieve >97% efficiency.
Emerging developments include:
Market growth projected at 6.2% CAGR (2023-2030), driven by 5G infrastructure and renewable energy integration.