In this paper, an analytical model is developed to optimize the charge prof
ile in an IGBT for the trade-off between the on-state performance and turn-
off losses. It is found that, in contrast to a typical IGBT design, the opt
imum carrier distribution has a significantly higher carrier concentration
at the cathode end of the device than that at the anode end. The results, w
hich are supported by 2-D numerical simulations and experiments, provide an
interesting guideline for optimizing the IGBT. Practical considerations of
the predicted optimum design are discussed. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd.
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