Cambridge GaN Devices Expands GaN-based 140-240W USB-PD Development

Cambridge GaN Devices (CGD), the British fabless semiconductor company, dedicated to develop energy-efficient GaN-based power devices that make greener electronics possible, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI) of Taiwan to develop high performance GaN solutions for USB-Power Delivery (USB-PD) adaptors. The MoU also covers the sharing of domestic and international market information, joint visits to potential customers and promotion.

GaN power semiconductors pioneer GaN Systems has once again teamed up with Dutch company Axign to unveil an even more powerful, 1000W Class-D GaN audio amplifier board at CES 2023. The new reference design merges best-in-class technologies from GaN Systems and Axign to enable unique audio systems that are smaller, more efficient, and offer better audio quality. The design is ideal for automotive, professional, and prosumer audio applications.

Efficient Power Conversion (EPC) introduced the first of a new integrated circuit (IC) product family offering higher performance and smaller solution size for high power density applications including DC-DC conversion, motor drive, and Class-D audio amplifiers. EPC announced an 80 V, 12.5 A power stage integrated circuit designed for 48 V DC-DC conversion. The EPC2152 is a single-chip driver plus eGaN FET half-bridge power stage using EPC’s proprietary GaN IC technology.

Infineon Technologies broadened its CoolGaN series with two new devices: the CoolGaN 400 V and the CoolGaN 600 V. Gallium nitride (GaN) offers fundamental advantages over silicon, with outstanding specific dynamic on-state resistance and smaller capacitances compared to silicon MOSFETs. The new CoolGaN 400 V device will appeal to audio product designers looking for a premium solution for home or professional Class D amplifiers.

There is a very interesting new audio project being promoted on Kickstarter. Coming from Orchard Audio, the BOSC is a well engineered hi-fi monoblock audio amplifier that explores the latest gallium nitride (GaN) semiconductor technology to achieve ultra-high performance in a small package. This compact and affordable 150 watt amplifier shows a lot of potential, with an impressive circuit design and high-quality sound, and is available in 3-4Ω (13.8dB gain) or 6-8Ω (16.8dB gain) versions.