Abstract: The impact of potential barrier distribution on the transient performance of a static induction thyristor (SITH) in a channel determined by geometrical parameters and applied bias voltage is studied theoretically and experimentally. The analytical expressions of potential barrier height and the I-V characteristics of the SITH are also derived. The main factors that influence the transient performance of the SITH between the blocking and conducting states, as well as the mechanism underlying the transient process, is thoroughly investigated. This is useful in designing, fabricating, optimizing and applying SITHs properly.

Key words: static induction thyristor, potential barrier, transient performance, blocking state, conducting state