Preliminary Considerations Using Power MOSFET (Average) Data Sheet Information

Before starting a device characterization, study the manufacturer's data sheet for the power MOSFET you want to characterize. Each manufacturer has a unique design and naming convention for their data sheets. Different manufacturers also measure device characteristics differently.

• First, determine the nominal conditions for the device. Ideally, these are the conditions at which the device will be operated. Practically, these conditions should be those for which you have the most information closest to the desired operating conditions. Search the data sheet and look at all available data to decide on the nominal point. The measurement conditions for switching energies (Eon, Eoff) are generally good choices.
• DC characteristics are parameterized using the transfer and output characteristics, which can be found as plots in the sheet.
• Dynamic behavior is characterized using the switching energies at multiple working conditions, found either in a table or read from a plot. Switching energies of average model is estimated through interpolation/extrapolation based on known data. It is important to provide switching energies at multiple working points during characterization.

Related Topics 

Using the Device Characterization Wizard for a Power MOSFET (Average)