Infineon Technologies AG has launched a groundbreaking series of gallium nitride (GaN) power transistors featuring an integrated Schottky diode—marking the first time such a product has been introduced for industrial applications. The new CoolGaN™ Transistor G5 series brings enhanced efficiency to power systems by minimizing deadtime losses, simplifying circuit design, and cutting down on overall component costs.
In traditional hard-switching power setups, GaN transistors often face efficiency setbacks due to higher reverse conduction voltages, especially when controller deadtimes are long. Engineers usually resort to external Schottky diodes or intricate controller adjustments to mitigate these effects—adding complexity and cost. Infineon’s latest innovation eliminates that need by integrating the diode directly into the GaN transistor, streamlining power stage design and boosting overall performance. This new GaN solution is ideally suited for use in server and telecom intermediate bus converters, DC-DC converters, USB-C battery charger rectifiers, high-power power supply units, and motor drive applications.
“As GaN becomes more central to modern power system designs, we’re committed to pushing its capabilities further,” said Antoine Jalabert, Vice President of Infineon’s Medium-Voltage GaN Product Line. “With the CoolGaN G5 series, we’re offering designers a more efficient, flexible, and compact solution that supports the demands of next-generation electronics.”
GaN transistors typically lack a true body diode, which leads to limitations during reverse conduction. The integrated Schottky diode in the CoolGaN G5 series addresses this by reducing reverse conduction losses and improving compatibility with a wider range of high-side gate drivers. It also enables easier controller integration, thanks to relaxed deadtime requirements. The first device in this new product line is a 100V, 1.5mΩ transistor housed in a compact 3×5 mm PQFN package.
Infineon Technologies AG is a leading global semiconductor manufacturer, advancing technologies that support both decarbonization and digital transformation. The company employs over 58,000 people and reported revenues of approximately €15 billion for the 2024 fiscal year. Infineon shares are traded on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange (IFX) and the U.S. OTCQX market (IFNNY).
