Issue link: https://resources.mouser.com/i/1526800
Foreword Bourns, Inc, is a leading manufacturer and supplier of position and speed sensors, circuit protection solutions, magnetic components, microelectronic modules, panel controls, and resistive products. Headquartered in Riverside, California, USA, Bourns serves a broad range of markets, including automotive, industrial, consumer, communications, low to medium risk medical*, audio, and various other market segments. Additional company and product information is available at www.bourns.com. For over 20 years, the industry waited in anticipation for the breakthrough of wide bandgap (WBG) semiconductors, particularly Gallium Nitride (GaN) and Silicon Carbide (SiC). While at times, it felt as though these technologies would never cross the chasm to commercialization; however, in the past few years they finally made the great leap forward. WBG semiconductors, have emerged as compelling alternatives to traditional silicon-based devices. Among these, GaN High Electron Mobility Transistors (HEMTs) stand out due to their exceptional material properties. At Bourns, we have also adapted to this changing landscape of power conversion due to the increase in switching frequencies and power densities. Magnetic components are expected to match the industry's demand for higher power densities and still shrink in size. It is only through the use of newer materials, innovative designs, and cutting edge production techniques that engineers will be able to design smaller magnetic components that meet the need for increased power density and higher bandwidths. These are exciting times for our industry, and Bourns is especially pleased to be able to contribute to this publication together with industry leaders ADI and Mouser. As part of our close collaboration, ADI has tested a variety of Bourns' magnetic components with their industry leading GaN controllers. This partnership has improved performance both in the controller IC and magnetics. We anticipate these joint efforts will deliver more seamless solutions to our customers that drive the development of their own next generation of products. By Brian Ahearne, VP Product & Technology, Power Division, Bourns, Inc. 6 10 Experts Discuss Gallium Nitride Technology