Feb 14, 2007 
Vishay�s new ThermaSim (available from http://www.vishay.com/mosfets/thermasim) is a free tool that helps designers speed time to market by allowing detailed thermal simulations to be performed before prototyping. ThermaSim is powered by Rebecca 3D software from Epsilon Ingenierie. Applicable to any power MOSFET application, ThermaSim will be especially useful in high-current, high-temperature applications such as automotive, fixed telecom, desktop and laptop computer, and industrial systems.
In a first for online MOSFET simulation, ThermaSim uses structurally detailed models of Vishay Siliconix power MOSFETs created using finite element analysis (FEA) techniques to increase the simulation�s accuracy. Designers also may define other heat-dissipating components and simulate their effect on the MOSFET�s thermal operation. Simulating these components ensures optimum device selection for application specifications and eliminates fallouts during thermal-performance line testing.
The tool is rich in features, and the setup is comprehensive. The designer constructs PCB size, layers, material, and copper spreading; sets pad size and solder quality; defines the heat sink size, material, and attachment methodology; and selects the power-dissipation profile, system temperature, air flow, and assembly orientation with respect to gravity to correctly account for the effect of convection. Designers also have a choice between steady-state and transient simulation.
Simulation results are emailed directly to the designer and can be downloaded into Microsoft Excel. Multiple results with varying product, package, or other input data can be merged within Excel to compare and examine trends. Thermal images are provided, and an MPEG video clip of the thermal image with transient simulation also is available. Simulations can be saved for modifications at a later date.
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Vishay Intertechnology, Inc., a Fortune 1,000 Company listed on the NYSE (VSH), is one of the world's largest manufacturers of discrete semiconductors (diodes, rectifiers, transistors, and optoelectronics and selected ICs) and passive electronic components (resistors, capacitors, inductors, sensors, and transducers). These components are used in virtually all types of electronic devices and equipment in the industrial, computing, automotive, consumer, telecommunications, military, aerospace, and medical markets. Its product innovations, successful acquisition strategy, and ability to provide "one-stop shop" service have made Vishay a global industry leader. Vishay can be found on the Internet at http://www.vishay.com.
