A novel optically controlled semiconductor switch for power applications

The objective of this paper is to design and test an optically controlled semiconductor switch for use in high-power applications. The switch is gated through the use of a laser. This switch has been used previously in microwave applications and is now being tested under high-power and long on-time conditions. Among other advantages, the use of this switch eliminates the grounding problems associated with triggering conventional power semiconductor in high voltage series connections.