Gating off refers to removing the drive signal or applying a reverse bias to the gate of a semiconductor switch, such as a MOSFET, IGBT, or GTO. This action forces the device to stop conducting current between its main terminals. It requires overcoming the internal capacitance of the gate structure quickly to minimize switching losses.
Make sure the driver can source enough reverse current to gate off the IGBT before the next switching cycle.
Related terms
MOSFET
A metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor is a voltage-controlled switch used to amplify or switch electronic signals.
IGBT
A power semiconductor device that combines a simple gate drive with high-current capability.
Thyristor
A four-layer semiconductor device that acts as a bistable switch for high-power applications.
Turn-off time
The duration required for a switching semiconductor to transition from fully conducting to fully blocking.