onsemi opens systems application lab for EVs in Europe

The state-of-the-art systems applications lab provides specialised equipment to develop and test next-generation silicon (Si) and silicon carbide (SiC) semiconductor solutions in collaboration with automotive OEMs, Tier 1s and EI providers.

Why it matters: Modern semiconductor devices are essential for highly efficient power conversion in xEV powertrains and charging, as well as applications in renewable energy. The new lab will play a central role in ensuring that the development of future power products results in highly differentiated, value-add solutions tailored to customers’ specific requirements.

About the lab: The new facility consists of two high-voltage power labs that focus on systems and device level development as well as evaluation of SiC/Si traction inverters and ACDC/DCDC power converters. Laser welding facilities, mechanical clean rooms and workshops further enable fast prototyping and testing of next-generation system solutions.  

Evaluation capabilities for the next-generation system solutions include:

• Continuous 24/7 testing
• Internally developed and patented software and hardware solutions to support high-voltage power cycling via space vector modulation (SVM) and sinusoidal pulse width modulation (SPWM)
• High-accuracy logging devices for assessing SiC and Si health and reliability
• Simulation of the harsh conditions faced by inverters during operation, testing liquid-cooled devices at temperatures as low as minus 50°C and up to 220°C
• Wider range of industry-recognised software allows for the programming of FPGAs and ARM microcontrollers on site, as well as qualification testing, data analysis and 3D modelling