Podcast4Engineers

In this episode, host Kelsey Markl welcomes Head of Systems at Infineon’s Green Industrial Power Division Mehrdad Baghaie Yazdi back to the show, where they discuss the massive power demands of gigawatt-scale AI data centers and the necessary shift toward efficient DC grid architectures. They explore how solid-state transformers and advanced semiconductors are replacing traditional infrastructure to reduce energy losses and improve grid resilience.

In this episode of the Podcast4Engineers, host Kelsey Markl sits down with Valerio Zerillo, Global Application Manager for Solid-State Transformers at Infineon Technologies, to explore how SST technology is revolutionizing modern power infrastructure and enabling smarter, more efficient, and more compact power distribution for AI data centers, modern factories, Megawatt EV charging, and renewable energy integration. Tune in to discover how SST is going to help us meet the energy demands of tomorrow’s technologies!

In this episode, host Kelsey Markl welcomes Global Application Manager Jonathan Schmitt to the show, where they discuss the latest trends and innovations in photovoltaic technology, including the adoption of wide bandgap technologies such as silicon carbide and gallium nitride. As the industry continues to evolve, what role will these emerging technologies play in shaping the future of the solar energy market?

In this episode, host Kelsey Markl welcomes Global Application Manager Marco Werr back to discuss the evolving energy landscape and its impact on semiconductors. They explore the transition from fossil fuels to renewables, the rise of battery energy storage systems, and the challenges of ensuring grid stability. Marco highlights key topics like grid-forming vs. grid-following inverters, the role of silicon carbide technology, and innovations in power density and efficiency. How can semiconductor advancements help address the demands of an increasingly renewable and unstable grid? Find it out in this episode!

In this episode, host Kelsey Markl welcomes Global Application Marketer Giovanni Parrino to the show, where they discuss new opportunities in HVAC with wide bandgap technologies. What challenges are driving HVAC trends, how to counter cost pressure and grid challenges, and what role do topology design changes play? For more, attend the Giovanni’s webinar, visit our HVAC application page, or discover our evaluation board EVAL-2EDGAN-INV-1KW mentioned in the episode.

Join host Peter Balint on this episode of Podcast4Engineers as he delves into the fascinating world of home appliances, where the boundaries of innovation are constantly being pushed. Alongside guest expert, Walter Bell, they take a journey through the evolution of automation in home appliances, from humble beginnings to the cutting-edge technologies of today. Discover how the convergence of AI and semiconductors has revolutionized the way we live, making our daily lives more convenient, efficient, and connected. Tune in to find out how the perfect blend of human ingenuity and technological prowess is transforming the home appliance market, and what it means for the world of tomorrow.

In this episode of Podcast4Engineers, the host Kelsey Markl welcomes Global Application Manager Lara Kremer, who explains the factors influencing the heat pump market, including cost efficiency, environmental concerns, and policy impacts. Tune in as they discuss recent technological advancements in heat pumps, such as improved inverters, smart features, and the shift toward eco-friendly refrigerants to reduce environmental impact.

In this episode of Podcast4Engineers, our guest, Richard Kunčič, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Power System division, discusses how AI’s increasing power requirements will drive a substantial change in rack power distribution architecture. He will dive into the pros and cons of transitioning to a 400 V architecture, and the evolution of the server power supply. Lastly, he will give an overview of Infineon’s investment in quantum computing; a technology which has the potential to unlock new possibilities in the AI space and boost efficiency to unprecedented levels, especially for specific types of AI model training. Learn more about Infineon's data center solutions.

Advancements in GPUs and the transition to higher voltage architectures in AI servers are driving the need for robust protection integrated circuits (ICs). In this episode of Podcast4Engineers, our application expert, Nitish Agarwal, explores the critical role of hot swap controllers in managing inrush currents and ensuring the reliability and efficiency of AI data centers. Additionally, he will address future trends and challenges within the semiconductor industry. Have a question or topic suggestion for our next episode? Email us at wepowerai@infineon.com

Today, we will examine the critical role played by battery backup units in keeping AI servers running smoothly, even in the event of power outages. Our guest, Filippo Rosetti, Application Marketing Manager at Infineon, shares his expertise on effective battery backup hardware strategies that ensure uninterrupted power supply to AI systems. From process continuity to seamless power switchover, we'll explore the importance of reliable battery systems in powering AI. Learn more about Infineon's battery management systems. Do you have a question or topic suggestion for our next episode? Email us at wepowerai@infineon.com

How can we make sure our chips work reliably for decades without having decades to test them? In this episode, we dive deep into the topic of silicon carbide (SiC) reliability testing with our expert guest Paul Salmen. Be sure to check out the training Paul mentions to learn more about gate oxide reliability for CoolSiC™ devices.

We’ve been nominated for the prestigious Deutsche Zukunftspreis, the German Federal President‘s Award for Technology and Innovation! In this episode, we talk to Konrad Schraml and Caspar Leendertz about their submission: the world's first 3.3 kV SiC MOSFET with a vertical channel and innovative copper contacting. Listen in to learn how it can cut losses by 90%, saving energy in rail, solar, and wind applications, and is already making an impact worthy of the Deutsche Zukunftspreis.

How do USB connectors help machines 'see' and work smarter? In industrial automation, machine vision plays a crucial role in enabling machines to 'see' and interact with their environment. High-speed USB data transfer is the backbone of this technology, facilitating the rapid transmission of image data from cameras to processing units and allowing real-time analysis, precise quality control, and efficient decision-making. In this episode, our expert Jimmy will guide you through the advantages of USB as a connector and give you a first look into the future of USB data transfer, introducing peripheral controllers for USB 10 and 20Gbps.