November 2013

Doc ID 023670 Rev 1

1/24

UM1575

User manual

Spice model tutorial for Power MOSFETs

Introduction

This document describes ST’s Spice model versions available for Power MOSFETs. This is

a guide designed to support user choosing the best model for his goals. In fact, it explains

the features of different model versions both in terms of static and dynamic characteristics

and simulation performance, in order to find the right compromise between the computation

time and accuracy. For example, the self-heating model (V3 version), which accurately

reproduces the thermal response of all electrical parameters, requires a considerable

simulation effort.

Finally, an example shows how the self-heating model works.

Spice models describe the characteristics of typical devices and don't guarantee the

absolute representation of product specifications and operating characteristics; the

datasheet is the only document providing product specifications.

Although simulation is a very important tool to evaluate the device’s performance, the exact

device’s behavior in all situations is not predictable, therefore the final laboratory test is

necessary.

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