Optimization of a 96% efficient 12–1 V Gallium Nitride based point of load converter

A 12-1 V Gallium Nitride based POL converter demonstrates over 96% efficiency and under 4 ns switching time. This is accomplished through a layout technique that does not require costly microvias but still minimizes parasitic inductance to support fast switching. A single-sided synchronous buck converter phase operates up to 30 A in a 5.6 cm² (0.87 in²) package that outperforms other commercially available and published POL converters, and size could be reduced by over 40% in a similar double-sided design. Part selection and layout techniques are explored among three POL versions with incremental improvements. Expansion to multiple phases is explored, and experimental data illustrates that switching losses are remarkably low. This work shows how to properly employ modern wide bandgap semiconductor technology in power supply design for highly efficient DC-DC conversion.