International Rectifier (IR), a pioneer in power management technology, has been a cornerstone in the semiconductor industry, specializing in power semiconductors, integrated circuits (ICs), and power management solutions. Founded in 1947, IR played a pivotal role in advancing power electronics before being acquired by Infineon Technologies in 2015, merging its expertise with Infineon’s global reach.
-
Power MOSFETs: IR revolutionized power switching with its proprietary HEXFET® MOSFETs, known for high efficiency and ruggedness. These devices are widely used in power supplies, motor drives, and automotive systems, enabling precise control of electrical power.
-
IGBTs (Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistors): Combining the advantages of MOSFETs and bipolar transistors, IR’s IGBTs deliver high voltage and current handling, critical for industrial motor drives, renewable energy inverters, and electric vehicle (EV) powertrains.
-
Power Management ICs (PMICs): Integrated solutions for voltage regulation, motor control, and thermal management, optimized for energy efficiency in consumer electronics, automotive systems, and industrial equipment.
-
Rectifiers and Diodes: High-performance rectifiers, including Schottky and fast-recovery diodes, used in power conversion, battery charging, and DC-DC conversion applications.
-
Automotive: IR components power EV/hybrid vehicle systems, including traction inverters, battery management, and on-board chargers, supporting the shift to electrified transportation.
-
Industrial: Motor drives, robotics, and factory automation rely on IR’s IGBTs and MOSFETs for efficient power control, reducing energy consumption and improving system reliability.
-
Renewable Energy: Solar inverters and wind turbine systems use IR’s power semiconductors to convert DC power from renewable sources to grid-compatible AC, enhancing energy conversion efficiency.
-
Consumer Electronics: Power supplies in laptops, smartphones, and home appliances integrate IR’s PMICs for compact design and extended battery life.
IR’s innovations, such as the HEXFET® technology, set industry standards for power efficiency and reliability. Its focus on sustainability and energy-saving solutions aligned with global trends toward green technology, making it a trusted partner for engineers and manufacturers worldwide. Post-acquisition, Infineon continues to leverage IR’s technology portfolio to advance power electronics for a more energy-efficient future.
Keywords: International Rectifier, IR semiconductors, HEXFET MOSFET, IGBTs, power management ICs, automotive power electronics, Infineon IR, power semiconductors.
International Rectifier’s legacy endures as a driving force in power semiconductor innovation, enabling progress in electrification, renewable energy, and efficient power management across industries.
