Leveraging what the company says is silicon carbide’s unique advantages over silicon to virtually eliminate diode switching losses, these diodes are targeted at high-voltage power-conversion applications in motor-drive, wind-energy and traction systems.

Initial products in the 1700V series include 10 and 25A JBS diodes in die form, ready for integration into 1700V power modules ranging from 50 to 600A. According to Cree, the new 1700V JBS series can increase the efficiency, reliability and longevity of power systems while also reducing the overall system size, weight and cost.

"The 1700-V diodes extend our leadership in energy-efficient power systems for data-center and solar-power markets to new markets such as wind-energy, train, tram and electric-vehicle power converters," said Cengiz Balkas, Cree, Vice President and General Manager, Power and RF. "Cree has the diodes of choice when high-efficiency power systems are a must. The advantages of silicon carbide are clear, and for high-voltage, high-frequency systems, you can’t afford not to use SiC."