Podcast4Engineers

Liquid cooling of AI data centers

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.

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Protecting AI power with solid-state circuit breakers

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.

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UPS: rethinking backup power for AI

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.

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Facility level power conversion: SST

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.

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The server rack evolution toward 3-phase PSUs

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).

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Powering the gigawatt era: The shift to DC grids and solid-state infrastructure in AI data centers

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.

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Powering AI at scale: grids, HVDC, and what comes next

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.

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Meeting increasing energy demands with solid-state transformers

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!

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IPOSIM SPICE: power simulation with real-world accuracy

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?

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WBG trends in photovoltaic technology

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?

Deep dive into power conversion systems for battery energy storage systems

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!

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Intro to power conversion systems for battery energy storage systems

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!

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Megawatt EV charging

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.

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New opportunities in HVAC with wide bandgap technologies

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.

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Semiconductors and Al in home appliances: Focus on induction cooktops

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.

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Semiconductors and AI in Home appliances: Critical and future relevant use cases

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.

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Silicon carbide adoption in industrial drives

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.

The changing heat pump market

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.

The digitalization of power

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.

Powering AI’s future across 400 V, 3-phase PSUs and quantum computing

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.

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