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227-0618-00L 6 Credits MSC D-ITET

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Modeling, Characterization and Reliability of Power Semiconductors

Does not take place this semester.

VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:34:31

Abstract

This lecture provides theoretical and experimental knowledge on the techniques for the characterization and numerical modeling of power semiconductors, as well on the related built-in reliability strategies.

Objective

The students shall get acquainted with the most important concepts and techniques for characterization, numerical modeling and built-in reliability of modern power semiconductor devices. This knowledge is intended to provide the future engineer with the theoretical background and tools for the design of dependable power devices and systems.

Content

This lecture consists of a theoretical part (50%) and of laboratory exercises and demonstrations (50%). The theoretical part covers the basic techniques and procedures for characterization, modeling and built-in reliability of modern power semiconductor devices with special attention to MOS and IGBT. The starting part on technology provides an overview on the main device families and includes a review of the most relevant application-oriented aspects of the device physics, thermal management, and packaging. The second section deals with the basic experimental characterization techniques for the definition of the semiconductor material properties, electrical characteristics, safe operating area, and junction temperature of the devices. The following section introduces the basic principles for electrical, thermal, and electro-thermal simulation of power semiconductors by Technology Computed Aided Design (TCAD) and compact modeling. Finally, procedures are methods are presented to implement efficient built-in reliability programs targeted on power semiconductors. They include failure physics, dedicated failure analysis techniques, accelerated testing, defect screening, and lifetime modeling. During the laboratory activities, selections of the experimental techniques presented in the lecture are demonstrated on the base of realistic examples. Furthermore, schematic power devices will be simulated by the students with advanced TCAD tools and circuit simulators.

Resources

Lecture Notes

Handouts to the lecture (approx. 250 pp.)

Literature

Eiichi Ohno: "Introduction to Power Electronics" B. Murari et al.: "Smart Power ICs" B. J. Baliga: "Physics Modern Power Devices" S. K. Ghandi: "Semiconductor Power Devices"

Learning Materials (Links)

Main link
Information

General Information

Language: English
Levels: MSC
Frequency: Yearly recurring

Examination

Type: session examination
Mode: oral 30 minutes

Course Components

Type	Title	Time & Place	Hours
lecture with exercise	Modeling, Characterization and Reliability of Power Semiconductors Does not take place this semester.	No time listed	4 h weekly

Offered In

Electrical Engineering and Information Technology Master
- Master Studies (Programme Regulations 2018)
  - Electronics and Photonics (The core courses and specialisation courses below are a selection for students who wish to specialise in the area of "Electronics and Photonics", see . The individual study plan is subject to the tutor's approval.)
    - Specialisation Courses (These specialisation courses are particularly recommended for the area of "Electronics and Photonics", but you are free to choose courses from any other field in agreement with your tutor. A minimum of 40 credits must be obtained from specialisation courses during the Master's Programme.)
  - Energy and Power Electronics (The core courses and specialisation courses below are a selection for students who wish to specialise in the area of "Energy and Power Electronics", see . The individual study plan is subject to the tutor's approval.)
    - Specialisation Courses (These specialisation courses are particularly recommended for the area of "Energy and Power Electronics", but you are free to choose courses from any other field in agreement with your tutor. A minimum of 40 credits must be obtained from specialisation courses during the Master's Programme.)
- Master Studies (Programme Regulations 2008)
  - Major Courses (A total of 42 CP must be achieved during the Master Programme. The individual study plan is subject to the tutor's approval.)
    - Electronics and Photonics
      - Recommended Subjects (These courses are recommended, but you are free to choose courses from any other special field. Please consult your tutor.)
    - Energy and Power Electronics
      - Recommended Subjects (These courses are recommended, but you are free to choose courses from any other special field. Please consult your tutor.)