INTRODUCTION
In power electronics the choice of the switch to be used is always very important for the designer: cost, reliability, ruggedness and easiness to be driven must be permanently kept in mind. This is specially important in automotive where the designer has to optimize the numerous switching devices implemented for a wide field of applications: ignition circuits, various electric motor controls, actuators in security systems, etc... In the large family of electronic switches, the thyristor must be considered as a low cost and powerful device for many functions in a car. This paper reminds the reader of the main characteristics of the thyristors and their advantages in certain automotive applications. Some examples are presented to illustrate how SCR’s and triacs can bring innovative solutions in new
electronic designs.
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