Project: Surveillance Radar Equipment
Customer Sector:
Defence
Application:
Power MOSFET
Franchise Technical Partner:
Avon Magnetics
Technical Challenges
The primary challenge was to engineer a solution using transistor technology that would ensure a continuous, uninterrupted voltage output. A critical aspect was the dimension constraints of the final product, necessitating the use of PCB transistors that could be easily soldered onto specific circuit boards. A significant hurdle was the requirement for a 100-Volt operating voltage, a demand that surpassed the capabilities of existing technology, as reliable components for operation above 60 Volts were not available.
The Astute Solution
To overcome these challenges, Astute focused on developing a new type of Power MOSFET transistor capable of functioning at the required high voltage. Collaborating with Transys Electronics Ltd, they pioneered a Silicon N-channel device using advanced drench technology. Ensuring a low RDS(ON) resistance was paramount, as it directly affects power efficiency. The packaging size of the new devices was another critical factor, with the TO-247 package form being selected to fit within the circuit board dimensions, despite procurement difficulties due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
After experimenting with various configurations, the team successfully created prototypes that met the operational requirements. These new MOSFETs were extensively tested and proved to function reliably at elevated voltage levels with the desired low RDS(ON) resistance.
These components have been integrated into the redesigned radar units, delivering the requisite fast-switching action and stable voltage output.
Astute Group Now Distributing Good-Ark Semiconductor
Good-Ark’s extensive range of discrete semiconductors includes 3 Axis MEMS digital accelerometers… find out more here Astute Group is now an official distributor for Good-Ark Semiconductor across EMEA and beyond, offering their comprehensive range of discrete semiconductor products, including diodes, rectifiers, bridge rectifiers, protection devices (TVS, chip fuses, and thermistors), thyristors (SCRs and triacs), transistors, […]
China Bristles as Dutch Export Controls on ASML Chipmaking Tools Tighten Amid Industry Growth
China has expressed its discontent over the Dutch government's decision to tighten export controls on ASML chipmaking equipment, further escalating tensions amidst a global semiconductor landscape already fraught with geopolitical complexities. The Chinese commerce ministry voiced its opposition, labelling the move as an attempt by the United States to maintain its global dominance by coercing allies into restricting China's access to critical semiconductor technologies, reports Reuters.
Semiconductor Sales Rebounding on Growing Demand
The Semiconductor Industry Association (SIA) released new data to show that global semiconductor sales reached $51.3 billion in July 2024, marking an 18.7% increase compared to $43.2 billion in July 2023. This figure also represents a 2.7% rise from the June 2024 total of $50.0 billion, continuing a positive growth trend for the fourth consecutive month.