Published online by Cambridge University Press: 15 June 2000
In this paper, a new concept called "Floating Islands diode" (FLI-diode) is proposed: the voltage handling capabilityof this new diode is assumed by the association of several PN junctions in series. This concept can be applied to anypower devices (lateral or vertical). An example of vertical power MOSFET based on this concept is presented here: thisnew structure, called "FLIMOSFET", exhibits improved on-state resistance performance when compared to the conventional VDMOSFET. For instance, for a breakdown voltage of 900 volts, the theoretical performance are strongly improved in term of specific on-resistance (reduction of about 70% relative to the conventional structure and 40% relative to thesilicon limit). Moreover the specific on-resistance theoretical limits of FLIMOSFET family are determined and comparedto those of the "Superjunction" MOS Transistor family: this comparison shows the strong interest of the FLIMOSFET inthe 200 volts-1000 volts breakdown voltage range.