Field controlled thyristor (FCT) - A new electronic component

The Field Controlled Thyristor is a new medium power (650V, 20A) switching element. In the on condition the FCT operates as a p-i-n rectifier with a correspondingly low forward voltage drop. Conductivity modulation of the FCT\´s base region allows it to handle higher current densities than a power transistor with a comparable voltage rating. The device owes its uniqueness to its planar grid structure which gives it both current interrupt and forward blocking capability. The FCT is not a regenerative device and is not "fired" into the on state. This results in both higher dv/dt and di/dt ratings than a conventional thyristor.