ROHM boosts GaN power device supply with TSMC tech

ROHM is strengthening its gallium nitride (GaN) power device strategy by integrating its in-house development and manufacturing capabilities with TSMC’s GaN process technology. This move aims to establish an end-to-end production system within the ROHM Group, enhancing supply capacity for high-growth markets like AI servers and electric vehicles (EVs).

For readers following the evolution of wide bandgap semiconductors, this development signifies a significant shift in how GaN capacity is secured and scaled. It highlights the strategic importance of manufacturing control as demand rises in high-voltage and high-frequency applications.

Building an In-Group GaN Production System

ROHM has chosen to license TSMC’s GaN process technology and transfer it to ROHM Hamamatsu. The goal is to establish a fully integrated production system by 2027, positioning the company to meet the increasing demand in AI server power units and EV on-board chargers.

GaN power devices are prized for their high-voltage and high-frequency performance, leading to enhanced efficiency and reduced system size. While GaN has gained traction in consumer products like AC adapters, its adoption is expanding into higher-power domains such as AI infrastructure and automotive systems. Demand is projected to rise as system designers strive for greater efficiency and power density.

ROHM initiated early development of GaN devices and commenced mass production of 150V GaN at ROHM Hamamatsu in March 2022. In the mid-power segment, the company has engaged in external collaborations. It has embraced a 650V GaN process since 2023 through its partnership with TSMC. In December 2024, the two companies entered into a strategic automotive collaboration, further strengthening their ties.

The recently finalized license agreement marks a progression of that partnership. After the technology transfer is completed, ROHM and TSMC will amicably conclude their automotive GaN partnership. Nevertheless, both companies will persist in collaborating to enhance the efficiency and compactness of power supply systems.

EcoGaN Brand Expands Market Reach

ROHM markets its GaN devices under the EcoGaN brand, positioned to enable lower power consumption, smaller peripheral components, and simplified designs with fewer parts. EcoGaN devices have found applications in products like Innergie’s 45W AC adapter “C4 Duo” in 2023 and power supplies for AI servers from Murata Power Solutions in 2024.

By bringing more of the production flow in-house while leveraging TSMC’s process technology, ROHM aims to secure both supply resilience and competitive differentiation in a market increasingly defined by scale and performance.