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227-0156-00L 6 Credits BSC , MSC D-ITET

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Power Semiconductors

Lecturers & Examiners: Dr. Marianne Bathen, Dr. Corinna Martinella, Dr. Piyush Kumar, Manuel Belanche Guadas

VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 16:21:49

Abstract

Power semiconductor devices are the core of today's energy efficient electronics. In this course, an understanding of the functionality of modern power devices is developed. Typical device concepts for power rectifiers and transistors are discussed. In addition to silicon-based devices, wide bandgap semiconductors such as silicon carbide (SiC) and gallium nitride (GaN) are considered.

Objective

The goal of this course is to develop an understanding of modern power device concepts. After following the course, the student will be able to choose a power device for an application, know the basic functionality, and is able to describe the performance and reliability related building blocks of the device design. Furthermore, the student will have an understanding of current and future developments in power devices.

Content

• Basic semiconductor physics concepts • Device design/conceptual thinking • Device simulation (TCAD) • Device processing • Diodes • BJT and JFET • Thyristor • MOSFET and power MOSFET • IGBT and HEMT • Packaging and Applications

Resources

Lecture Notes

Script will be made available via Moodle, printouts of the slides will be distributed during the lectures.

Literature

The course follows a collection of different books; more details are being listed in the script.

General Information

Language: English
Levels: BSC , MSC
Frequency: Yearly recurring

Examination

Type: session examination
Mode: written 180 minutes
Aids: Personal summary (max. 2 A4 pages, single-sided), non-programmable calculator or calculator in exam mode, no communication devices.

In addition to the final grade, a maximum bonus of 0.25 can be obtained as follows:- 0.10 for a quiz on Moodle,- 0.15 for a laboratory report.

Course Components

Type	Title	Time & Place	Hours
lecture with exercise	Power Semiconductors	Tue 14:15-16:00 (CAB G 59) Tue 16:15-18:00 (CAB G 59)	4 h weekly

Offered In

Electrical Engineering and Information Technology Bachelor
- 6th Semester: Third Year Core Courses (Can be freely combined, a list of recommendations is available under )
Electrical Engineering and Information Technology Master
- Master Studies (Programme Regulations 2018)
  - Energy and Power Electronics (The core courses and specialization courses below are a selection for students who wish to specialize in the area of "Energy and Power Electronics", see . The individual study plan is subject to the tutor's approval.)
    - Core Courses (These core courses are particularly recommended for the field of "Energy and Power Electronics". You may choose core courses form other fields in agreement with your tutor. A minimum of 24 credits must be obtained from core courses during the MSc EEIT.)
      - Foundation Core Courses
- Master Studies (Programme Regulations 2008)
  - Major Courses (A total of 42 CP must be achieved form courses during the Master Program. The individual study plan is subject to the tutor's approval.)
    - 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.)