Test solution speeds up validation of WBG devices

Tektronix, Inc. has launched a new release of its double pulse test (DPT) software solution for testing wide bandgap (WBG) switching devices used in a range of applications including electric vehicles, solar energy and industrial controls. The WBG-DPT solution delivers automated and repeatable measurements on WBG devices such as SiC and GaN MOSFETs.

The WBG-DPT Solution will simplify debugging, deliver a faster learning curve and provide repeatable measurements, said Tektronix, which aligns with JEDEC and IEC standards for double pulse testing and diode reverse recovery.

Double pulse testing software on the Tektronix 5 Series MSO automates key validation measurements on GaN and SiC power converters.

Aimed at optimizing next-generation power converter designs, the WBG-DPT solution runs on Tektronix 4, 5 and 6 Series MSO oscilloscopes. The solution claims several industry-first measurement capabilities, such as an automatic WBG deskew technique and reverse recovery timing plots.

The WBG deskew technique eliminates the need for rewiring the test setup to correct for delays introduced by test fixtures and probes and can be performed after double pulse measurements have been taken. This new technique reduces the deskew time from an hour or more to five to 10 minutes, according to Tektronix.

How it works: The software generates an alignment waveform to simulate the effects of delays in the test setup. Settings are adjusted to match the alignment waveform with the measured waveform, with the software correcting any differences in delays.

The reverse recovery timing plots make it easy for engineers to see reverse recovery details for multiple pulses overlaid on a single display, said Tektronix. Measurements can be configured to query results on every first or second pulse, or all pulses of a double pulse set. This approach provides visual and measurement results on each set and the ability to zoom in on the reverse recovery region and debug reverse recovery parameters of the system.

The solution provides instantaneous measurements of key parameters, like E_ON, E_OFF and Q_RR. It also delivers fast and accurate Q_OSS measurements, which benefits power converter designers as the need grows to measure output charge (Q_OSS) at different junction temperatures, according to the company.

The WBG-DPT solution is available now.