GaN and SiC devices power AI notebook family

Navitas Semiconductor has announced the adoption of its GaNFast and GeneSiC power technologies into Dell's family of notebook adapters, from 60W to 360W.

With over 20 years of SiC technology leadership, GeneSiC leads on performance of SiC MOSFETs with patented 'trench-assisted planar' technology and 5th-gen GeneSiC SiC diodes to deliver high-speed, high-efficiency performance with proprietary 'low-knee' technology for cool operation.

The company's GaNFast power ICs facilitate high-frequency, high-efficiency power conversion, achieving 3x more power and 3x faster charging in half the size and weight compared to prior designs with legacy silicon power devices.

The company's GaN and SiC technology allows Dell to provide high-speed charging with the highest efficiency, coolest temperature, smallest size, and lowest material count. Dell's latest AI notebook line-up includes NPUs and dedicated AI engines to manage sustained AI and AI offload. This builds on its portfolio as the widest GaN adapter offering for notebooks available.

The new adapters will also help Dell achieve its advanced sustainability goals, with a focus on CO2 reduction and energy reduction. The adapter cases need up to 50% less plastic and are made with post-recycled materials, greatly reducing energy waste, and improving resource utilisation. Navitas' GaNFast and GeneSiC technologies increase the level of system integration and switching frequency, which decreases the number of components and the size, resulting in a 'dematerialisation' that lowers carbon footprint throughout the production, packaging, and logistics processes. Each GaNFast power IC shipped saves 4kg CO2, and every SiC MOSFET shipped saves 25kg CO2 versus legacy silicon power chips.

"Since Dell's first GaN adapter was enabled by Navitas back in 2020, we've worked closely with Dell engineering to further improve charging speed, efficiency, size, weight, and now environmental footprint", said Gene Sheridan, CEO and co-founder of Navitas. "Dell's new adapters are an optimal solution for speed, portability, and sustainability. Our clients achieve a win-win for both the market and environment by deploying Navitas GaNFast power ICs and GeneSiC power devices."