The Quest for Power Density

In recent days, power density has become an important and increasingly universal figure of merit of power supply and power system innovation and performance. Achieving high power density implies the utilization of the latest topological advances in power conversion, employing state−of−the−art control methods and using the best semiconductor technology available for the designer. This paper outlines the reasons designers should consider high power density as a general goal and the fundamental principles high power density designs are based on, including topology and semiconductor selections. A closer look at GaN power devices, their key characteristics, drive and layout requirements, impact on topology selection and their best application areas will also be discussed.