Chapter 10 - Power Integrated Circuits, Power Hybrids, and Intelligent Power Modules

Abstract

From their humble beginnings as audio amplifiers, Power Integrated Circuits (PIC) are now moving towards a more prominent role in many power electronic systems. Today an increasing number of applications make use of these devices. Usually power integrated circuits are designed for specialized applications in the lower power range. Their concept represents the natural continuation of IC evolution, realizing a complete system on one chip. The power limit arises from the amount of heat that can be dissipated by a silicon surface of approximately one square centimeter in size. When most of the silicon real estate is devoted to power devices, the chips are usually called “smart power.” However, the terminology applied is more often based upon institutional rather than technical reasons. What constitutes a power integrated circuit varies from manufacturer to manufacturer, depending on their product portfolios and point of view; that is, whether they approach the market from a discrete-transistor or an IC perspective. Some define power ICs by their functions—whether the IC actually includes the power transistor itself; others, by the IC's voltage and current levels, and still others by the IC's general involvement in controlling power.