The Importance Of Thermal Management In Discrete Semiconductor Design

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There are several factors and parameters that are considered when designing discrete semiconductors. One of the important factors is thermal management.  The design should take care of any heat-related issue that is likely to emerge during the working and operation of the discrete semiconductor.

Since discrete semiconductors are directly connected to electric circuits, they are likely to generate some heat energy when operating. If this heat is not properly managed, then we are likely to witness physical and electrical damage to the component. This may end up affecting the reliability of a device.

Discrete semiconductor manufacturers deploy various techniques for achieving proper thermal management. Most of the techniques are centered around the designs of these semiconductor objects. Other methods are based on the relations between discrete semiconductors and other devices in electric circuits. Keep reading as we discuss the importance of thermal management in discrete semiconductor design.

Thermal issue in discrete semiconductors

In recent years, semiconductor temperatures have been on an upward trend. They have been going up and this is attributed to several factors. First, electric circuits are more complex than before. The complexity is mainly because manufacturers desire to achieve more from a single device. Such complexities are likely to be an issue when it comes to the thermal management of a device.

Secondly, discrete semiconductors have been getting smaller over the years. We can say that this is done in line with Moore’s law. With the small size of electronic components, heat management will definitely be a major issue. While it is easy to implement various thermal solutions on larger semiconductors, small devices may prove to be quite a challenge. So, the design process should also take care of the small size of the semiconductors.

Why thermal management in discrete semiconductors?

Here are the top reasons why thermal management is important when it comes to designing discrete semiconductors.

• Better performance: Would you like your electronic appliance to perform to its optimum levels? You should take care of its thermal management. Excess heat is likely to lead to poor performance of the device. Proper thermal management will lead to consistent performance.
• Enhanced reliability: Thermal management in discrete semiconductor design will guarantee stable operation of the device or application. There will be minimal cases of physical and electric damage. This also improves the lifespan of the device.
• Improved safety: When the temperatures are managed through a proper semiconductor design, you can be sure about the safety of the device. Excess temperature can easily cause fire incidences in electrical devices and applications. High temperatures can also make devices blow up hence sparking flames.
• Cost effectiveness: There are various ways in which thermal management of discrete semiconductors can lead to the cost-effectiveness of a device and application. First, enhanced reliability means a lower cost of maintaining the device. Also, thermal management reduces the energy consumption of an electronic application. This directly translates to lower energy cost.

Design measures for thermal management

Here are some design techniques and solutions that are used for managing temperatures in discrete semiconductors.

Using copper trace layers

This is one of the most effective ways that discrete semiconductor manufacturers are using for thermal management in discrete semiconductors. Copper trace layers work by increasing the surface layer for heat dissipation. This means that even if the device generates a significant amount of heat, much of it will be dissipated away by the trace layers. The overall result will be proper thermal management by the discrete semiconductor device.

When do we use copper trace layers for thermal management?  This design technique is used when multiple heat-generating devices are placed close to each other. Such an arrangement can cause thermal problems as it will be hard to drive the generated heat away.

Use of Thermal Interface Material (TIMs) and Vias

When designing discrete semiconductors, some manufacturers opt to use Thermal Interface Material as well as Vias. TIM comprises elements that absorb heat away from conductors and at the same time loos it fast hence dissipating from the discrete semiconductors. On the other hand, Vias are holes that are included on PCBs. The main function of these holes is to dissipate heat away from the semiconductor and its circuit.

Use of heat sinks

Incorporating heat sinks is another design technique that is used for thermal management in semiconductor design. Heat sinks also comprise of materials that have excellent thermal conductivity. This means that they can easily absorb heat away from the semiconductor component when needed.

Semiconductor packaging

Packaging is also part of the discrete semiconductor design and it can be used to determine the effectiveness of the thermal management. When it comes to discrete semiconductor packaging, we always tend to think of two major options. These are through-hole packages and surface mount packages. Which of the two is better when it comes to heat management?

Surface mount is always chosen due to its ability to minimize parasitic thermal resistance in discrete semiconductors.

Other than implementing design solutions for thermal management, discrete semiconductor manufacturers may opt to go for advanced cooling solutions to minimize the impacts of heat on their applications. One of the most common solutions is liquid cooling.

So, which thermal management solution are you planning to implement on your discrete semiconductor?

Conclusion

Overall thermal management is a critical aspect of the discrete semiconductor design process. We have discussed the benefits of thermal management and how it will affect the performance and operation of discrete semiconductor components.

Whichever thermal management technique you choose, ensure that it will deliver the best results. It should ensure that the discrete semiconductors and or components in electric circuits are shielded from the impact of heat.

Additionally, when buying discrete semiconductors, ensure that their designs meet the minimum requirements for thermal management.  The surest way of getting such discrete semiconductors is by buying from reputable discrete semiconductor suppliers and sourcing agents. The best sourcing agent will verify the design element of discrete semiconductors and determine whether they meet the minimum thermal requirements.

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