Cost Comparison of Power Semiconductor Switches: Thyristors, GTOs, BJTs, IGBTs, and MOSFETs

The cost of power semiconductor switches can vary significantly based on the type of device, its specifications, manufacturing processes, and market demand. This article provides a detailed analysis of the cost comparison among thyristors, GTOs (Gate Turn-Off Thyristors), BJTs (Bipolar Junction Transistors), IGBTs (Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistors), and MOSFETs (Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor Field-Effect Transistors).

1. Thyristors

Cost: Generally low-cost for high-power applications.

Use Case: Commonly used in high-voltage and high-current applications such as motor drives and power conversion systems.

Advantages: Robustness and ability to handle high power.

2. GTOs (Gate Turn-Off Thyristors)

Cost: Typically more expensive than standard thyristors due to their complex gate control.

Use Case: Used in applications requiring fast switching and control such as inverters and converters.

Advantages: Can be turned off by a gate signal making them more versatile than traditional thyristors.

3. BJTs (Bipolar Junction Transistors)

Cost: Moderate cost but generally less favored for high-power applications compared to newer technologies.

Use Case: Used in linear amplifiers and some switching applications.

Advantages: High current capability but they require more complex drive circuits.

4. IGBTs (Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistors)

Cost: Generally higher than BJTs and thyristors but lower than GTOs for similar power ratings.

Use Case: Widely used in applications like motor drives, induction heating, and renewable energy systems, such as solar inverters.

Advantages: Combine the high current and voltage handling of BJTs with the easy drive of MOSFETs.

5. MOSFETs (Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor Field-Effect Transistors)

Cost: The cost can vary widely based on voltage and current ratings. Generally, they are more expensive than BJTs but cheaper than IGBTs for low to medium power applications.

Use Case: Common in low-voltage and high-frequency applications such as power supplies and DC-DC converters.

Advantages: Fast switching speeds and ease of drive make them popular in many electronic designs.

Summary: Cost Ranking from Lowest to Highest

Thyristors BJTs MOSFETs IGBTs GTOs

Market Trends

Prices fluctuate based on technological advancements, supply chain conditions, and demand for electric vehicles and renewable energy sources, which favor the use of IGBTs and MOSFETs.

Overall: The choice of power semiconductor switch should be based on the specific application requirements including voltage, current, switching speed, and thermal management, rather than solely on cost.

Keywords: Power Semiconductor Switches, Thyristors, IGBTs, GTOs, BJTs