The Lineage of Sanken Electric’s
Power Semiconductor Technologies
Sanken Electric celebrated its 80th anniversary on September 5th, 2026.
Sanken Electric has refined our core power semiconductor technologies in response to diverse paradigm shifts,
and the resulting value and successes have contributed to society.
Foundation -Our Origins-
In 1937, Yasuzaemon Matsunaga, president of Toho Electric Power,
established the Toho Industrial Research Laboratory for conducting new industrial development.
In 1939, he established six research laboratories
(machinery, electricity, metallurgy, inorganic chemistry, organic chemistry, and minerals).
In the laboratory for electricity research, the Company’s future founder, Tetsuji Kotani, worked to research semiconductors.
In 1942, he discovered a manufacturing method for selenium rectifiers.
The laboratory was dissolved after the end of the Second World War,
and in 1946, Kotani established Toho Sanken Electric, aiming to commercialize the development of semiconductors.
Our Technological History
Foundation
Established as a company based on semiconductor research
Started from selenium rectifiers
1950s
Major technological change from selenium and germanium to diffused silicon diodes
1960s
Entry into television, audio, and automotive markets through silicon semiconductors
1970s
Built a foundation for growth in power semiconductors through development of hybrid ICs
1980s
Rapid expansion of business activities together with development of electronic equipment
With the widespread adoption of color televisions, our power ICs captured more than 60 percent of the global market share
1990s
Strengthened global semiconductor business by making Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. a subsidiary
2000s - 2010s
Expansion into eco- and energy-saving markets Significant growth in IPMs for driving motors in room air conditioners, washing machines, and refrigerators
2020 - 2024
Concentrating resources on power semiconductors through structural reform
- Developed the next-generation IPM; SAM2 series and SIM2 series based on the SPP concept
- Developed power modules for EV traction motors to support the future shift toward battery electric vehicles
- Formed a strategic partnership with STMicroelectronics
2025 – Next Decade
Focusing on the commercialization of high-voltage GaN power semiconductors
- Acquired Powdec, which possesses proprietary PSJGaN technology
- Developing PSJGaN-equipped products starting with home appliances and expanding into industrial equipment
- Developing new vertical GaN devices and expanding their use to automotive applications
Beyond 80 Years
The history of Sanken Electric is not only the history of technology, but also the history of human challenge.
Our 80-year journey has not been built by our efforts alone.
We have built it step by step, tackling challenges alongside our customers and refining our products and technologies together.
By carrying forward the technological heritage that has been passed down since our founding,
we will continue to create technologies that contribute to society together with our customers,
and take on new challenges for the future.
Sanken Electric will continue to empower the future
with power semiconductors.
