METHOD FOR TURNING OFF A THYRISTOR AND SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICE FOR CARRYING OUT SAID METHOD

摘要

A process for interrupting load current in a thyristor to switch-off current conduction through the thyristor, as well as a semiconductor module for implementation of the process. In the process, a semiconductor diode is connected in parallel to the thyristor and a photocurrent is produced in the diode to switch-off current conduction in the thyristor, the diode then taking over the load current of the thyristor. The photocurrent can be optionally produced by means of an electro-magnetic radiation (light) or by means of a bombardment with electrons. The process permits considerable reduction in the complexity of the cut-off circuit and separation of this circuit in a galvanic fashion from the load circuit. The semiconductor module provided for implementing the process includes a thyristor and a radiation sensitive diode disposed in parallel with the thyristor and commonly integrated into the thyristor semiconductor structure.