Patent ID: 6687106
Filing Date: 2004-02-03
Classification: H01L,H03K

Abstract:
A power module comprising: a self arc-extinguishing type semiconductor having a current detecting emitter; and a short-circuit current suppressing circuit for turning OFF said self arc-extinguishing type semiconductor when a short-circuit current flows through the collector-emitter of said self arc-extinguishing type semiconductor,wherein said short-circuit current suppressing circuit includes: detection means for detecting said short-circuit current by detecting a current to flow through said current detecting emitter when the short-circuit current flows through the collector-emitter of said self arc-extinguishing type semiconductor; and a series member having a semiconductor switch and a capacitor and connected at its one terminal with the gate of said self arc-extinguishing type semiconductor and at its other terminal with the negative electrode of a power source connected at its positive electrode with the emitter of said self arc-extinguishing type semiconductor, and wherein said semiconductor switch is turned ON when said short-circuit current is detected by said detection means.