James Cannings
Chairman
QPT
James Cannings studied Computer Science & Cybernetics at Reading University before founding MMT in a bedroom when he graduated in 1999. This grew to become one of the largest digital agencies in the UK before its acquisition in 2016. An investor in deep tech, James was a founding member of QPT in 2019 after meeting Rob Gwynne (founder and CTO) and being impressed by his innovative ideas to blend the worlds of power semiconductors and high-frequency RF to extract the best performance from next-generation power systems using GaN transistors. James became the Executive Chairman of QPT in 2023 and leads the commercial team, focussing on customer engagements and fundraising at a particularly exciting time as the business comes out if its R & D phase and begins to commercialise their products.
Presentations
Breaking the 1MHz Barrier: System-Level Benefits of Ultra High Frequency GaN Motor Drives
Motor drives have stagnated at 4-16 kHz switching frequencies for two decades. QPT has broken the 1 MHz barrier with GaN technology, delivering a 100x frequency leap that simultaneously delivers breakthroughs in efficiency, cost, and performance. By overcoming the fundamental thermal and EMI barriers that have confined the industry, we demonstrate how pure sine wave motor drives unlock system-level transformations: from eliminating screened cables and achieving servo performance from low-cost motors, to cutting emissions equivalent to half of global aviation. This talk reveals the complete IP portfolio that can enable commercial deployment across £60Bn+ industrial, robotics, automotive, and HVAC markets, and why this breakthrough redefines what's possible in motor control.