英伟达抢进SiC？什么情况

Core Viewpoint - NVIDIA is initiating a "power revolution" by increasing the output voltage of AI server chips from 54V to 800V, utilizing Silicon Carbide (SiC) components to enhance power efficiency and performance in server cabinets [1][2]. Group 1: Silicon Carbide (SiC) Overview - Silicon Carbide (SiC) is a compound semiconductor material made from silicon and carbon, offering a wider bandgap than silicon, high-temperature resistance over 200 degrees Celsius, and excellent heat dissipation, making it suitable for high-power applications [1]. - SiC has been used in various applications such as 5G communications, electric vehicles (EVs), charging stations, and renewable energy systems, enhancing energy efficiency and performance [1]. Group 2: NVIDIA's Power Revolution - NVIDIA's new generation processor plans to upgrade the silicon intermediary layer to SiC, aiming for full-scale production of the 800V high-voltage direct current (HVDC) data center architecture by 2027 [2]. - The power consumption of AI servers is expected to increase from kilowatt (KW) levels to 1 million watts (MW), indicating a nearly 100-fold rise in future power demand [2]. - The traditional 54V architecture is nearing its limits in terms of copper loss, space, and conversion efficiency, necessitating the shift to SiC for improved efficiency and power density [2]. Group 3: Challenges and Considerations - While SiC offers significant advantages for high-performance server cabinets, it does not completely replace silicon in chip design and manufacturing, as silicon remains essential for CPU and GPU designs [3]. - The adoption of SiC is hindered by its high cost and the previous low voltage requirements of data centers, which limited the realization of SiC's benefits [4]. - Implementing SiC components requires careful design and wiring, complicating the control and safety verification of power systems, and necessitating an upgrade of the entire supply chain to accommodate the new architecture [4]. Group 4: Industry Implications - SiC is becoming a key material upgrade for power supply manufacturers, who are integrating SiC power components into server power supply units (PSUs) and HVDC distribution modules, highlighting the importance of technical expertise in this transition [5].