Summary
- ROHM has partnered with TSMC to develop and produce gallium nitride (GaN) power devices for electric vehicles (EVs)
- The partnership integrates ROHM’s device development technology with TSMC’s GaN-on-silicon process technology
- GaN power devices are currently used in various applications, including consumer and industrial devices like AC adapters and server power supplies
- ROHM and TSMC previously collaborated on GaN power devices in 2023, with ROHM adopting TSMC’s 650 V GaN HEMTs for its EcoGaN series
- ROHM had partnered with GaN Systems in 2018 before they were acquired by Infineon to develop power electronics and research new automotive applications
Article
Japanese electronic parts manufacturer ROHM has recently partnered with Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) to develop and mass-produce gallium nitride (GaN) power devices for electric vehicles (EVs). This strategic partnership combines ROHM’s device development technology with TSMC’s GaN-on-silicon process technology, aiming to leverage the potential benefits of GaN technology in automotive applications, particularly in EV onboard chargers and inverters. GaN power devices are currently utilized in consumer and industrial applications such as AC adapters and server power supplies, showcasing their versatility and efficiency.
The collaboration between ROHM and TSMC is an extension of their previous joint efforts in the GaN power device space. In 2023, ROHM incorporated TSMC’s 650 V GaN high-electron mobility transistors (HEMT) into its EcoGaN series, featuring products like the 45 W AC adapter C4 Duo. This move highlights the increasing adoption of GaN technology in various devices and underlines the companies’ commitment to advancing GaN technology for different applications, including in the automotive sector. The partnership with TSMC builds upon ROHM’s focus on GaN technology and its potential impact on the EV market.
In addition to its collaboration with TSMC, ROHM previously partnered with GaN Systems to explore power electronics and research new automotive applications. GaN Systems, a specialist in GaN technology, was later acquired by German semiconductor manufacturer Infineon. These partnerships and collaborations underscore the growing interest in GaN technology for its ability to enable high-frequency operation, contribute to device miniaturization, and deliver energy savings. The integration of TSMC’s semiconductor manufacturing expertise and ROHM’s power device design proficiency aims to further enhance GaN technology’s capabilities and expand its implementation in EVs.
In light of the partnership with TSMC and ongoing collaborations within the industry, ROHM’s Member of the Board and Senior Managing Executive Officer Katsumi Azuma expressed optimism about the potential of GaN devices for high-frequency operation. These devices are highly anticipated for their ability to drive miniaturization and energy efficiency in various applications, including EVs. Chien-Hsin Lee, Senior Director of Specialty Technology Business Development at TSMC, echoed this sentiment by highlighting the combined expertise of TSMC and ROHM in pushing the boundaries of GaN technology and its integration into the rapidly evolving EV market. By leveraging their respective strengths, the companies aim to drive innovation and enhance the performance of GaN power devices for future automotive applications.
As the automotive industry transitions towards electrification and the adoption of advanced technologies, partnerships like the one between ROHM and TSMC play a crucial role in driving innovation and accelerating the development of next-generation power devices for EVs. The collaboration underscores the importance of leveraging expertise across different sectors to enhance the capabilities of GaN technology and address the growing demand for efficient and compact power solutions in the automotive sector. With a focus on high-frequency operation, energy savings, and miniaturization, GaN power devices have the potential to revolutionize the EV market and pave the way for sustainable transportation solutions in the future. By combining their knowledge and resources, ROHM and TSMC are well-positioned to advance GaN technology and contribute to the ongoing evolution of the automotive industry towards a cleaner and more efficient future.
Read the full article here
