Patent ID: 7071503

Claim:
A semiconductor structure for controlling and switching a current, comprising: a) a switch element with: a1) a first semiconductor area of a first conductivity type defining therein a path for the current, an anode electrode and a cathode electrode in contact with said first semiconductor area; a2) a first depletion zone formed at least partially within said first semiconductor area, and a control electrode disposed to influence said first depletion zone by way of a control voltage for the purpose of controlling the current; and a3) an island area of a second conductivity type opposite the first conductivity type, said island area being at least partially buried within said first semiconductor area and contacted by way of said cathode electrode; b) an edge element with: b1) an edge area of the second conductivity type buried at least partially within said first semiconductor area and disposed substantially at a same level as said buried island area; and b2) an edge termination area of the second conductivity type, adjoining said edge area; and b3) an electrically conductive connection between said control electrode and said edge area.