Podcast4Engineers

As AI data centers push server power to unprecedented levels - reaching 600 kilowatts by 2027 and potentially megawatt-scale by the 2030s - the challenge of keeping these systems cool has never been more critical. In this episode of "We Power AI" on Podcast4Engineers, host Kelsey Markl sits down with Muzaffer Albayrak, Application Marketing Manager at Infineon, to explore the evolving world of data center cooling technologies. Together, they break down the shift from traditional air cooling to advanced liquid cooling methods, including direct-to-chip cooling, rear door heat exchangers, and immersion cooling, while examining the crucial role of Power Usage Efficiency (PUE) in measuring data center performance. The conversation dives into the semiconductor solutions - from silicon to wide-bandgap materials like silicon carbide and GaN - that power the fans, pumps, and inverters keeping these massive systems from overheating. Whether you're curious about cooling distribution units, centralized cooling architectures, or the future of AI infrastructure, this episode offers essential insights into one of the most pressing engineering challenges in the AI revolution.

AI data centers are driving power demands to levels that are forcing engineers to rethink how electricity is distributed and protected. In this episode of Podcast4Engineers, Peter Balint talks with Infineon distinguished engineer Leo Aichriedler about the shift from traditional AC systems toward high-voltage DC distribution and the role of solid-state circuit breakers. They explore why semiconductor-based breakers can isolate faults up to 1,000 times faster, how higher voltages and increasingly complex power grids affect protection systems, and why speed, reliability, selectivity and power density matter. The conversation also looks ahead to commercialization, standardization and the rapidly evolving role of solid-state protection as AI data centers accelerate the adoption of DC power.

In this episode of Podcast4Engineers, host Peter Balint speaks with Nancy Wang, Director of Application Marketing for UPS at Infineon, about why backup power is becoming a critical enabler of AI infrastructure. They explore how AI data centers are driving new approaches to uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), distributed battery backup, high-voltage DC architectures, and layered energy storage to meet increasingly dynamic power demands. The discussion also looks ahead to how future data centers will evolve from passive energy consumers into active participants in the power grid, making intelligent power management just as important as computing performance.

In this episode of Podcast4Engineers, host Peter Balint speaks with Valerio Zerillo about the growing role of Solid-State Transformers (SSTs) in powering AI-driven data centers. The discussion explores how traditional low-frequency transformers are reaching their limits due to increasing power demands, space constraints, and scalability challenges. Valerio explains how SSTs leverage advanced power semiconductors, silicon carbide, gallium nitride technologies, and intelligent control systems to deliver higher efficiency, flexibility, and reduced footprint. The episode also looks ahead to the future of power infrastructure, including medium-voltage DC grids and the integration of renewable energy sources to support next-generation AI and high-power applications.

In this episode of Podcast4Engineers' "We Power AI" series, host Kelsey Markl sits down with Dr. Diogo Varajao, Head of Power Supply and Battery Backup Systems Group at Infineon, to explore how power supply design is rapidly evolving to keep pace with the soaring energy demands of AI infrastructure. The conversation dives deep into the dramatic rise in GPU and server rack power consumption, from under 1 kilowatt per GPU just a few years ago to projections exceeding 600 kilowatts per rack in the near future, and what that means for data center architecture. Diogo walks through the generational shift in rack design, as well as novel energy buffer concepts, advanced PFC topologies, and the strategic use of WBG technologies to maximize efficiency and help hyperscalers drive down their Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE). 

In this episode, host Kelsey Markl welcomes Head of Systems at Infineon’s Green Industrial Power Division Mehrdad Baghaie Yazdi back to the show, where they discuss the massive power demands of gigawatt-scale AI data centers and the necessary shift toward efficient DC grid architectures. They explore how solid-state transformers and advanced semiconductors are replacing traditional infrastructure to reduce energy losses and improve grid resilience. 

AI is pushing our energy grid to its limits, but keeping up requires a sustainable approach, backed by the latest advancements in semiconductor technology. In this episode of our We Power AI series, Kelsey talks with Peter Wawer, Division President of the Green Industrial Power Division at Infineon, about what it really means to power AI sustainably, from the grid down to the server rack. They cover why battery energy storage, HVDC, and DC-powered data centers matter, and look ahead to what “physical AI” could mean for industry, robotics, and society. Learn more about how Infineon is powering AI.

In this episode of the Podcast4Engineers, host Kelsey Markl sits down with Valerio Zerillo, Global Application Manager for Solid-State Transformers at Infineon Technologies, to explore how SST technology is revolutionizing modern power infrastructure and enabling smarter, more efficient, and more compact power distribution for AI data centers, modern factories, Megawatt EV charging, and renewable energy integration. Tune in to discover how SST is going to help us meet the energy demands of tomorrow’s technologies!

In this episode, host Kelsey Markl welcomes Principal Engineer for Power Electronics Paul Sochor to the show, where they discuss the latest developments in simulation technology, including the new IPOSIM SPICE tool, and how it's accelerating the design process for power electronics engineers. Paul shares his expertise on how simulation is transforming the industry, enabling faster and more accurate design while reducing the need for physical prototypes. How will the increased use of simulation tools like IPOSIM SPICE change the face of power electronics design in the future?

In this episode, host Kelsey Markl welcomes Global Application Manager Jonathan Schmitt to the show, where they discuss the latest trends and innovations in photovoltaic technology, including the adoption of wide bandgap technologies such as silicon carbide and gallium nitride. As the industry continues to evolve, what role will these emerging technologies play in shaping the future of the solar energy market?

In this episode, host Kelsey Markl welcomes Global System Architect Dr. Manuel Strugholtz to explore the differences between grid-forming and grid-following technologies in stabilizing renewable energy grids. They discuss the challenges of transitioning to distributed energy systems, the technical demands of grid-forming inverters, and how semiconductor innovations like silicon carbide play a crucial role. Will grid-forming become the new standard for future energy grids? Tune in to find out!

In this episode, host Kelsey Markl welcomes Global Application Manager Marco Werr back to discuss the evolving energy landscape and its impact on semiconductors. They explore the transition from fossil fuels to renewables, the rise of battery energy storage systems, and the challenges of ensuring grid stability. Marco highlights key topics like grid-forming vs. grid-following inverters, the role of silicon carbide technology, and innovations in power density and efficiency. How can semiconductor advancements help address the demands of an increasingly renewable and unstable grid? Find it out in this episode!

In this episode, host Kelsey Markl welcomes Global Application Manager Rodrigo Marquina to the show, where they discuss the fundamentals and future of EV charging with a focus on megawatt charging. They delve into the use cases for high-power megawatt systems, and how these advancements are shaping the electrification of transportation, from passenger vehicles to long-haul trucks.

In this episode, host Kelsey Markl welcomes Global Application Marketer Giovanni Parrino to the show, where they discuss new opportunities in HVAC with wide bandgap technologies. What challenges are driving HVAC trends, how to counter cost pressure and grid challenges, and what role do topology design changes play? For more, attend the Giovanni’s webinar, visit our HVAC application page, or discover our evaluation board EVAL-2EDGAN-INV-1KW mentioned in the episode.

In this episode of Podcast4Engineers, host Peter Balint is joined by Walter Bell, Director of Application Marketing for Home Appliances at Infineon, to discuss the latest trends and innovations in induction cooktops. They explore the benefits of induction cooking, including its energy efficiency and flexibility, and how semiconductors are playing a crucial role in improving the technology. Read the whitepaper.

Join host Peter Balint on this episode of Podcast4Engineers as he delves into the fascinating world of home appliances, where the boundaries of innovation are constantly being pushed. Alongside guest expert, Walter Bell, they take a journey through the evolution of automation in home appliances, from humble beginnings to the cutting-edge technologies of today. Discover how the convergence of AI and semiconductors has revolutionized the way we live, making our daily lives more convenient, efficient, and connected. Tune in to find out how the perfect blend of human ingenuity and technological prowess is transforming the home appliance market, and what it means for the world of tomorrow.

In this episode, host Kelsey Markl welcomes Global Director of Application Management Wolf-Dieter Baehre back to the show, where they discuss the adoption of silicon carbide (SiC) in industrial drives applications. What factors still make IGBT an interesting choice today, and when should engineers start designing the future-ready systems of tomorrow with SiC?   Find out more about industrial drives solutions here. Download our latest whitepaper "SiC technology - A cost-effective enabler of highly efficient power drive systems" here. Or watch our webinar "Quantifying the benefits of SiC technology in Electric Motor Drive Systems" here.

In this episode of Podcast4Engineers, the host Kelsey Markl welcomes Global Application Manager Lara Kremer, who explains the factors influencing the heat pump market, including cost efficiency, environmental concerns, and policy impacts. Tune in as they discuss recent technological advancements in heat pumps, such as improved inverters, smart features, and the shift toward eco-friendly refrigerants to reduce environmental impact.

In this episode of the Podcast4Engineers, host Kelsey Markl invites Marijana Vukicevic, MCU Product Marketing Director at Infineon, to explore how microcontrollers are transitioning power from analog to digital. They discuss the benefits of digital scalability, faster processing, and how digital MCUs like the PSOC™ Control family are ideal for GaN-based systems, enabling smaller designs and groundbreaking energy efficiency in data centers.

In this episode of Podcast4Engineers, our guest, Richard Kunčič, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Power System division, discusses how AI’s increasing power requirements will drive a substantial change in rack power distribution architecture. He will dive into the pros and cons of transitioning to a 400 V architecture, and the evolution of the server power supply. Lastly, he will give an overview of Infineon’s investment in quantum computing; a technology which has the potential to unlock new possibilities in the AI space and boost efficiency to unprecedented levels, especially for specific types of AI model training.  Learn more about Infineon's data center solutions.

In this episode of Podcast4Engineers, host Peter Balint sits down with Davide Chiola, VP of Systems Solutions at Infineon, to explore the critical role of thermal management in AI data centers. They discuss innovative cooling techniques, design challenges, and emerging trends like liquid cooling and superconductivity, shaping the future of high-performance computing. Learn more about Infineon's data center solutions here. Have a question or topic suggestion for our next episode? Email us at [email protected]. 

Advancements in GPUs and the transition to higher voltage architectures in AI servers are driving the need for robust protection integrated circuits (ICs). In this episode of Podcast4Engineers, our application expert, Nitish Agarwal, explores the critical role of hot swap controllers in managing inrush currents and ensuring the reliability and efficiency of AI data centers. Additionally, he will address future trends and challenges within the semiconductor industry. Have a question or topic suggestion for our next episode? Email us at [email protected]  

In this episode of Podcast4Engineers, host Peter Balint explores the intricate demands of powering AI with guest, Fanny Bjoerk, Director Global Application Marketing for Datacenter Power Distribution. They discuss the exponential rise in power requirements of hyperscale data centers driven by the AI revolution, and the critical role of renewable energy in meeting these demands sustainably. The episode delves into the challenges and solutions for integrating renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind, and the importance of energy efficiency and reliable power delivery for the future of AI infrastructure. Learn more about Infineon's solutions for renewable energy. Do you have a question or topic suggestion for our next episode? Email us at [email protected]

Today, we will examine the critical role played by battery backup units in keeping AI servers running smoothly, even in the event of power outages. Our guest, Filippo Rosetti, Application Marketing Manager at Infineon, shares his expertise on effective battery backup hardware strategies that ensure uninterrupted power supply to AI systems. From process continuity to seamless power switchover, we'll explore the importance of reliable battery systems in powering AI. Learn more about Infineon's battery management systems. Do you have a question or topic suggestion for our next episode? Email us at [email protected]

In this episode of Podcast4Engineers, we look at the role of predictive failure in the AI data center arena. How can we accurately predict which components will fail and when? Our conversation with Infineon System Architect, Christian Bernhardt will shed some new light on trimming the costs of ownership for hyperscale data centers. Learn more about Infineon's power system reliability solutions or email us with your questions or topic suggestions for our next episodes at [email protected]

How can we make sure our chips work reliably for decades without having decades to test them? In this episode, we dive deep into the topic of silicon carbide (SiC) reliability testing with our expert guest Paul Salmen.  Be sure to check out the training Paul mentions to learn more about gate oxide reliability for CoolSiC™ devices.

In this episode, we talk to Konrad Schraml and Caspar Leendertz again about their nomination for the Deutsche Zukunftspreis. Listen to learn about the technical challenges the team from Infineon and TU Chemnitz overcame to create the world's first 3.3 kV SiC MOSFET with a vertical channel and innovative copper contacting.

We’ve been nominated for the prestigious Deutsche Zukunftspreis, the German Federal President‘s Award for Technology and Innovation! In this episode, we talk to Konrad Schraml and Caspar Leendertz about their submission: the world's first 3.3 kV SiC MOSFET with a vertical channel and innovative copper contacting. Listen in to learn how it can cut losses by 90%, saving energy in rail, solar, and wind applications, and is already making an impact worthy of the Deutsche Zukunftspreis.

The sun doesn’t always shine, and the wind doesn’t always blow. So how can we save our green energy for the times we can’t produce it? In this episode, our expert Marco Werr explains how battery energy storage systems (BESS) help harness the energy from renewables, so it is there when we need it.

How do USB connectors help machines 'see' and work smarter? In industrial automation, machine vision plays a crucial role in enabling machines to 'see' and interact with their environment. High-speed USB data transfer is the backbone of this technology, facilitating the rapid transmission of image data from cameras to processing units and allowing real-time analysis, precise quality control, and efficient decision-making. In this episode, our expert Jimmy will guide you through the advantages of USB as a connector and give you a first look into the future of USB data transfer, introducing peripheral controllers for USB 10 and 20Gbps.

To solve some of the industry’s biggest challenges, it takes players both big and small. In this episode, our Julian Haslberger and special guest Jack Herring from Jiva Materials explain how they came together to address electronic waste with recyclable PCBs as part of Infineon’s Co-Innovation Program.

Electronic waste is rapidly growing, but is there a more sustainable option to just throwing away electrical components? In this episode, our expert Andreas Kopp and special guest Jack Herring from Jiva Materials dive into how both companies are coming together to make recyclable PCBs that not only reduce waste but also withstand the demands of the semiconductor industry.

What are the main trade-offs to consider when designing a server power supply? When is it better to use unregulated topologies over the regulated ones? Find the answer and delve into the different 48 V topologies and applications with the expert guidance of our Principal Engineer Roberto Rizzolatti in the sixth episode of the "We Power AI" podcast series.

Why are robustness and quality so important when it comes to data centers? In this fifth episode of the “We Power AI” podcast series, our expert Danny Clavette, Distinguished System Architecture Engineer, will provide some very interesting insights and examples on the server rack structure and failure rates in data center components, highlighting how Infineon solutions can support a better reliability in the GenAI world. Learn more about Infineon’s offering for data center and computing here. Request a topic for our next episodes or drop any questions at [email protected] Stay tuned and don't miss our next episode on July 30th!

How can we improve power conversion efficiency, especially at the AC-DC stage? In this fourth episode of our “We Power AI” podcast series, Gerald Deboy, Fellow and Head of the PSS Innovation Lab at Infineon, dives into the different stages of power conversion and explains why data centers should embrace a combination of Si, SiC and GaN semiconductors to support GenAI requirements.

How is genAI impacting power design? In this third episode of our “We power AI” podcast series, Carl Smith, Senior Director of Information & Communication Technologies application explains how data centers’ infrastructures are shifting from the traditional 12 V power distribution architecture and lateral core rail power delivery to more efficient and high-density 48 V architecture and vertical power delivery.

Is power becoming a bottleneck in AI servers? In this second episode of our “We power AI” podcast series, Athar Zaidi, Senior Vice President and Business Line Head of Power ICs and Connectivity Systems at Infineon’s Power & Sensor Systems Division, explains how data centers’ infrastructures shall adapt to sustain the increasing power requirements of GenAI, outlining different strategies to boost efficiency.  

Everybody talks about AI, but what are the consequences of such data generation and processing surge? Our expert Adam will dive into what GenAI means in terms of power requirements and environmental impact, introducing possible solutions. Learn more on Infineon solutions for data centers here.

Edge devices are rapidly evolving to take on more complex tasks, which require more compute power. Machine learning offers a solution. Our expert Omar Cruz explains how PSOC™ Edge, Infineon’s machine learning (ML)-enhanced sensing, low-power, secured, and advanced HMI high-performance microcontroller (MCU) family, enables designers to deliver unmatched end-user experiences for next generation devices. For more information on PSOC™ Edge, please click here.

Insulated-gate bipolar transistors (IGBTs) have been around for decades, but the 7th generation finally brings a much-awaited revolution. Our expert Blaž explains what the new IGBT7 technology means for silicon-based designs and what five “values” make it unique.

In this episode, our expert guests Dirk and Christoph explain “10 kWh for 100 km” and discuss how semiconductors not only enable decarbonization in eMobility, but also ensure the “fun-to-drive” factor.

The industry no longer looks at silicon carbide (SiC) as it did just a few short years ago. In this episode, EBV’s Milan Ivkovic and Infineon’s Peter Friedrichs discuss how the two companies have been working together to accelerate the adoption of SiC in a variety of applications.

Over the past three years, EBV and Infineon have been working closely together to make the transition to silicon carbide (SiC) smoother for our customers. In this episode, EBV’s Slobodan Puljarevic and Infineon’s Pierre-Yves Ferrard discuss how their partnership has evolved to achieve success – even in turbulent times.

Silicon carbide (SiC) is a precious resource, so how do we make the most of it? Join us as Vice President SiC Peter Friedrichs explains how a new technology called Cold Split is helping us get nearly double the number of wafers out of a SiC boule.

Our world is controlled by industrial drives – from the simple pump that brings water to your faucet to the advanced robotic arm that assembles your new car. Our experts Wolf-Dieter and Andreas discuss the role semiconductors play in making these industrial drives more efficient.

Energy regulations and air quality concerns are driving the demand for smart commercial HVAC. Listen as our expert Lara explains what makes these systems smart and how they are becoming even smarter with semiconductors.

Solar power is essential for decarbonization, but what happens when the sun isn’t out? Listen as our expert Suresh explains how hybrid inverters bridge this gap by combining energy generation and energy storage.

How is industrial automation, fueled by data and advanced semiconductors, revolutionizing the manufacturing landscape? Listen as our expert Ingo delves into the transformative impact of automation on factories and the power of semiconductors behind it.

We’re pulling out the crystal ball for silicon carbide! Join Vice President SiC Peter Friedrichs as he looks ahead to explain what the future holds for SiC and what trends are driving us there.

With great power comes great responsibility – or perhaps just great designs! Listen as our expert Ainhoa talks about how SiC in power modules has evolved over the years and what considerations are important when choosing a module for your power electronics design.