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[FAQ-PACK-1] What is the benefits of the Kelvin source connection on discrete packages or modules ?

SiC_Power_Admin
SiC_Power_Admin Wolfspeed Admin - Contributor Level 4
edited November 2022 in Packaging

The Kelvin source connection is a dedicated small signal connection directly from the source of the MOSFET and is dedicated for controlling the MOSFET. This mitigates the inductive voltage changes that can occur in the main current carrying path since the connection is decoupled from the power path. As devices like silicon carbide switch at high di/dt, these voltage changes can be significant. Use of kelvin source eliminates common source inductance that could otherwise act like a negative feedback on the gate signal. This feedback resists the action of the gate driver and results in increased switching losses and oscilltions

A comparison of a traditional package with (TO-247-4L and 7LD2PAK) and without (TO-247-3) Kelvin source are shown below . The same concept and results would apply to a power module as well.


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