Implementation of a Gate Drive Circuit for Reducing Switching Loss and Surge Voltage

Abstract

This paper discusses the influences of common source inductance in power converter circuits. Common source inductance is the source-side inductance inside a power module, and it shares common circuit parameters with both the gate drive and power circuit. Therefore, common source inductance will influence the switching characteristics of the module. No paper has yet addressed the relationship between common source inductance and switching characteristics such as surge voltage and switching loss. In order to improve the switching characteristics during turn-off operations, this paper presents a design procedure with respect to common source inductance. In addition, experimental results rated at 500V, 40A are shown.