ROHM Co., Ltd. has announced plans to integrate its proprietary GaN power device development and manufacturing technologies with process technology from TSMC, establishing an end-to-end GaN production system within the ROHM Group.

Under a newly signed license agreement, TSMC’s GaN process technology will be transferred to ROHM’s Hamamatsu facility, enabling the company to strengthen its supply capabilities in response to rapidly growing demand for GaN in applications such as AI servers and electric vehicles (EVs).

Gallium nitride (GaN) power devices offer superior high-voltage and high-frequency performance, enabling higher efficiency and reduced system size. While already widely adopted in consumer applications such as AC adapters, GaN is increasingly being used in high-voltage systems including:

  • Power units for AI servers
  • On-board chargers (OBCs) for EVs

Demand in these segments is expected to accelerate further as electrification and AI infrastructure continue to expand.

ROHM has been active in GaN development for years. The company established mass production of 150V GaN devices at ROHM Hamamatsu in March 2022. In the mid-power range, ROHM strengthened its supply structure through external collaborations — with TSMC as a key partner.

Key milestones in the collaboration include:

  • Adoption of a 650V GaN process from TSMC beginning in 2023
  • A December 2024 partnership agreement focused on automotive GaN

The newly announced technology integration represents a deeper evolution of this collaboration.

ROHM aims to complete the technology transfer and establish the new production system in 2027, positioning the company to meet expanding demand in AI server and automotive applications.

Upon completion of the transfer, ROHM and TSMC will amicably conclude their automotive GaN partnership. However, both companies stated they will continue working together to advance higher-efficiency and more compact power supply systems.

By bringing GaN production capabilities fully in-house while leveraging TSMC’s advanced process technology, ROHM is strengthening its long-term competitiveness in next-generation power semiconductors.

Original – ROHM