High-temperature silicon carbide (SiC) power switches in multichip power module (MCPM) applications

Arkansas Power Electronics International, Inc, (APEI, Inc.) and University of Arkansas researchers have developed a novel, highly miniaturized motor drive capable of operation in excess of 250 °C. The high-temperature multichip power module (MCPM) integrates silicon carbide (SiC) JFET power transistors with high-temperature MOS silicon-on-insulator (SOI) control electronics into a single, highly miniaturized and compact power package. This paper will outline the design philosophy behind the high-temperature MCPM, illustrate thermal modeling results of the package, and present the results of prototype testing (demonstrating functionality).