The rapid development of the RF power electronics requires the introduction of wide bandgap material due to its potential in high output power density, high operation voltage and high input impedance. GaN-based RF power devices have made substantial progresses in the last decade. This paper attempts to review the latest developments of the GaN HEMT technologies, including material growth, processing technologies, device epitaxial structures and MMIC designs, to achieve the state-of-the-art microwave and millimeter-wave performance. The reliability and manufacturing challenges are also discussed.

Wide bandgap semiconductors are extremely attractive for the gamut of power electronics applications from power conditioning to microwave transmitters for communications and radar. Of the various materials and device technologies, the AlGaN/GaN high-electron mobility transistor seems the most promising. This paper attempts to present the status of the technology and the market with a view of highlighting both the progress and the remaining problems.