Fundamental semiconductor theory - materials, charge carriers, transport, lifetime, and temperature dependence. Construction, operation, and performance of; Power diodes; Power Transistors; Power MOSFET's; Thyristor's; and IGBT's. Static and dynamic characteristics, driving circuits, loss mechanisms, steady state and transient thermal performance, heat sink design, thermal management, and advanced cooling methods. Interfacing control electronics with power devices. Series and parallel connection of devices.

Week 1 Introduction and background discussion
Week 2 Semiconductor theory
Week 3 Power diodes
Week 4 Series and Parallel connection of power diodes
Week 5 Laboratory Assignment
Week 6 Thyristor
Week 7 Laboratory Assignment
Week 8 Power Transistor (MOSFET)
Week 9 Laboratory Assignment
Week 10 Power Transistors (BJT and IGBT)
Week 11 Next generation devices
Week 12 Revision

This module is taught over one semester with a mixture of taught lectures, tutorials, and laboratory sessions, supported by independent student learning, research, guided reading, and on-line webcast/videos

N. Mohen (2012), Power Electronics - A First Course, Hoboken, N.J.: Wiley, ISBN:9781118074800

M. Rashid (2014), Power Electronics – devices, circuits, and applications, Harlow, Essex, England: Pearson Education Ltd

P. Chappell (2014), Introduction to Power Electronics, Boston, USA: Artech House

Access to standard electrical and electronic laboratory equipment, Multisim, MATLAB/Simulink, PSCAD, Plexim/Plecs

1. Describe the fundamental semiconductor theory relevant to power semiconductor devices, and explain the construction, operation and performance of the main device types. (AHEP 3: SM1b, EA1b, EA2, D3b)

2. Explain the capabilities and limitations of power semiconductor devices, and use them in a variety of power electronic circuits. (AHEP 3: SM1b, EA1b, EA2, D3b)

Examination (2 hours): 70%. Covering LOs 1 and 2. Meeting AHEP 3 Outcomes SM1b, EA1b, EA2, D3b. Coursework: Assignment (1000 words) 30%. Covering LOs 1 and 2, Meeting AHEP 3 Outcomes SM1b, EA1b, EA2, D3b.

Practice formative class tests will be undertaken during the module and formative guidance and feedback will be provided in tutorial sessions within the class.