ROHM’s New SiC Schottky Barrier Diodes for High Voltage xEV Systems: Featuring a Unique Package Design for Improved Insulation Resistance

Achieves approx. 1.3 times the creepage distance compared to standard products.

Willich-Münchheide, Germany, November 12, 2024 – ROHM has developed surface mount SiC Schottky barrier diodes (SBDs) that improve insulation resistance by increasing the creepage distance between terminals. The initial lineup includes eight models - SCS2xxxNHR - for automotive applications such as onboard chargers (OBCs), with plans to  deploy eight models - SCS2xxxN - for industrial equipment such as FA devices and PV inverters in December 2024. (Fig. 1) The rapidly expanding xEV market is driving the demand for power semiconductors, among them SiC SBDs, that provide low heat generation along with high-speed switching and high-voltage capabilities in applications such as onboard chargers. Additionally, manufacturers increasingly rely on compact surface mount devices (SMDs) compatible with automated assembly equipment to boost manufacturing efficiency. Compact SMDs tend to typically feature smaller creepage distances, fact that makes high-voltage tracking prevention a critical design challenge. As leading SiC supplier, ROHM has been working to develop high-performance SiC SBDs that offer breakdown voltages suitable for high-voltage applications with ease of mounting. Adopting an optimized package shape, it achieves a minimum creepage distance of 5.1mm, improving insulation performance when contrasted with standard products. The new products utilize an original design that removes the center pin previously located at the bottom of the package, extending the creepage distance to a minimum of 5.1mm, approx. 1.3 times greater than standard products. This minimizes the possibility of tracking (creepage discharge) between terminals, eliminating the need for insulation treatment through resin potting when surface mounting the device on circuit boards in high voltage applications. Additionally, the devices can be mounted on the same land pattern as standard and conventional TO-263 package products, allowing an easy replacement on existing circuit boards. (Fig. 2) Two voltage ratings are offered, 650V and 1200V, supporting 400V systems commonly used in xEVs as well as higher voltage systems expected to gain wider adoption in the future. The automotive-grade SCS2xxxNHR are AEC-Q101 qualified, ensuring they meet the high reliability standards this application sector demands. Going forward, ROHM will continue to develop high-voltage SBDs using SiC, contributing to low energy consumption and high efficiency requirements in automotive and industrial equipment by providing optimal power devices that meet market needs. Product Lineup (Fig. 3) Application Examples Automotive applications: Onboard chargers (OBCs), DC-DC converters, etc. Industrial Equipment: AC servo motors for industrial robots, PV inverters, power conditioners, uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), and more Online Sales Information Availability: The SCS2xxxNHR for automotive applications are available now. The SCS2xxxN for industrial equipment are scheduled in December 2024. Online Distributors: DigiKey™, Mouser™ and Farnell™ The products will be offered at other online distributors as they become available. EcoSiC™ Brand EcoSiC™ is a brand of devices that leverage silicon carbide, which is attracting attention in the power device field for performance that surpasses silicon. ROHM independently develops technologies essential for the advancement of SiC, from wafer fabrication and production processes to packaging, and quality control methods. At the same time, we have established an integrated production system throughout the manufacturing process, solidifying our position as a leading SiC supplier. (Fig. 4) EcoSiC™ is a trademark or registered trademark of ROHM Co., Ltd. Visit ROHM’s Website for More Information https://www.rohm.com/news-detail?news-title=2024-11-12_news_SBD&defaultGroupId=false Find out about the latest products and technologies via ROHM’s Newsletter https://pages.rohm.com/newsletter-subscription-center.html DigiKey™, Mouser™ and Farnell™ are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies.

About ROHM Semiconductor ROHM Semiconductor is a global company of 467.7 billion yen (3.2 billion US dollars) per March 31st, 2024, with over 23,300 employees. The company develops and manufactures a very large product range from SiC Diodes and MOSFETs, Analog ICs such as Gate Drivers and Power Management ICs to Power Transistors and Diodes to Passive Components. The production of ROHM’s high performing products is taking place in state-of-the-art manufacturing plants in Japan, Germany, Korea, Malaysia, Thailand, the Philippines, and China. ROHM Semiconductor Europe has its Head Office near Dusseldorf serving the EMEA region (Europe, Middle East, and Africa). For further information, please contact www.rohm.com