Apple Inc.
Deterministic shutdown of power module

Abstract:

Power semiconductor devices according to embodiments of the present technology may be operated to protect components of the semiconductor device. Methods for operation of the devices may include measuring a temperature within a source region of the semiconductor device. The methods may include measuring at the semiconductor device an amount of current associated with a short circuit external to the semiconductor device. The methods may include predicting a temperature effect within two regions of the semiconductor device based on a range of distribution of the amount of current between the two regions of the semiconductor device. The methods may include determining a particular distribution of the amount of current between the two regions of the semiconductor device. The methods may also include shutting off the semiconductor device to cause the particular distribution of current between the two regions of the semiconductor device.