3rd Generation SiC Schottky Barrier Diode：SCS3 SeriesNew Structure in 3rd-Generation Devices for Enhanced Surge Current Robustness, Further Improved VF Characteristics

ROHM’s SiC Schottky barrier diodes (hereafter “SiC-SBDs”) have advanced to the third generation with the recently announced “SCS3 series”. With each generation, ROHM’s SiC-SBDs have marked further improvements in various characteristics, chief among them lower forward voltages. The second-generation SiC-SBDs that are currently in volume production have achieved a forward voltage V_F of 1.35 V at 25°C. Moreover, the third-generation SCS3 series has further improved the V_F characteristic, while dramatically improving the surge current rating I_FSM.

High I_FSM, Low V_F, Low I_R Achieved through Adoption of JBS Structure

In order to improve the surge current rating I_FSM, the SCS3 series, as the third generation of SiC-SBDs, adopts a JBS (Junction Barrier Schottky) structure. In addition, the low-V_F characteristic achieved in the second generation was further improved, to reduce losses. As a result, the ability to withstand the surge currents that occur in irregular equipment operation and the like is further improved, so that clients can use the SBDs in their applications with even greater confidence than before.

In its second-generation SiC-SBD lineup, ROHM achieved what was at the time the industry’s lowest forward voltage, V_F = 1.35 V at 25°C, and 1.55 V at 150°C. The third-generation devices that have been newly developed offer the same V_F of 1.35 V at 25°C, but ROHM succeeded in lowering V_F at 150°C to 1.44 V. As a result, it is possible to further reduce conduction losses under high-temperature conditions, for even higher efficiency.

In general, when an attempt is made to lower the forward voltage, the reverse leakage current I_R increases. In these third-generation SiC-SBDs, the JBS structure was adopted to overcome this difficulty and successfully lower the forward voltage while simultaneously keeping leakage currents small. Compared with the second generation, the leakage current was cut to about 1/15 its former value at a rated voltage of 650 V and Tj = 150°C.