The object
Bantval Jayant Baliga invented the insulated-gate bipolar transistor, a fast, efficient power switch embodied in a tiny semiconductor chip. IGBTs control power in appliances, vehicles, medical equipment, lighting and renewable-energy systems; the National Inventors Hall of Fame documents major reductions in electricity use and gasoline consumption from the device.
What Bantval did
Invented the insulated-gate bipolar transistor, a high-voltage power-switching semiconductor device.
Why it matters
The IGBT is manufactured worldwide and is a core power-control component across transportation, renewable generation, lighting and household equipment.
Living-status check
NC State's 2026 expert directory lists Baliga as its Distinguished University Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering.