Advantages of GTO :
- Fast and efficient turn-off.
- High efficiency.
- Exhibits low gate currents.
- Faster turn OFF permitting high switching frequencies.
- High blocking voltage capabilities.
- High over current capabilities.
- High capability of blocking voltage.
- Better for static and dynamic dv/dt capabilities.
- It does not need to require the communication circuit, hence it reduced the size, weight, and cost.
Disadvantages of GTO :
- Holding current and magnitude of latching current is more.
- Gate drive circuit losses are more.
- While GTO on state voltage drop is more.
- Triggering gate current is much higher than that required for normal SCR.