Franco Bertotti

Title: Innovations by Franco Bertotti in the Field of Integrated Circuits

Introduction

Franco Bertotti is a distinguished inventor based in Milan, Italy, well-known for his significant contributions to the field of integrated circuits. With a remarkable portfolio of 20 patents, Bertotti has been instrumental in advancing technologies related to DMOS (Double-Diffused Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) power transistors.

Latest Patents

Among Franco Bertotti's latest innovations are two notable patents:

1. **Method of Testing the Gate Oxide in Integrated DMOS Power Transistors**: This method involves a systematic approach to testing DMOS power transistors. It includes arranging a switch between low-voltage circuitry and the gate terminal of the transistor, maintaining this switch in an open condition, applying a stress voltage to the gate terminal, and then testing the functionality of the transistor. If the test outcome is positive, the switch is short-circuited through zapping by fusing a normally-open fusible link.

2. **Integrated Device Comprising a DMOS Power Transistor**: The invention relates to an integrated circuit device that includes a DMOS transistor with a gate terminal coupled to a control element. A normally-open switch element is placed in series between the gate terminal and the control element. This switch features two metallic regions with an insulating layer in between. This arrangement enhances the functionality and reliability of the DMOS power transistor.

3. **Circuital Arrangement for Preventing Latchup in Transistors**: This innovative circuital arrangement includes a vertical PNP transistor with an insulated collector. It is designed to prevent latch-ups of the parasitic SCR formed by the vertical transistor structure, while also allowing voltage levels to remain above intrinsic breakdown values. The setup includes an auxiliary PNP transistor that operates as a switch to maintain optimal voltages within the circuit.

Career Highlights

Franco Bertotti has worked with several notable companies, including SGS Microelettronica S.p.A. and SGSATES Componenti Elettronici S.p.A. His career is marked by his dedication to exploring and enhancing integrated circuit technologies, specifically focusing on power transistors.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Bertotti has collaborated with esteemed colleagues, including Paolo Ferrari and Mario Foroni. These collaborations have significantly contributed to his research and development efforts, resulting in groundbreaking innovations in the semiconductor industry.

Conclusion

Franco Bertotti's innovations are vital to the evolution of integrated circuits, particularly in the realm of DMOS power transistors. His contributions through his numerous patents continue to shape the future of electronic devices and systems, fostering advancements that impact various sectors.