What is the effect of dv/dt and di/dt on a power semiconductor?
The terms dv/dt and di/dt reflect a time rate of change of voltage (dv/dt) or current (di/dt); they may be considered a transient, but they aren’t because turning on or off a reactive load generates these conditions. These problems can occur in power semiconductor switches because all sections of the device do not behave in an identical manner when subjected to very high rates of change. It is not only important to look at the dv/dt and di/dt values generated within a circuit, but turn on and turn off times as well. Switching power on and off at a rapid rate can cause electromagnetic interference (EMI) that can affect nearby electronic systems. Domestic and international standards define the amount of EMI that can be emitted.
