A GaN compound semiconductor device can be capable of free process design and
can
have optimum device characteristics. The device can include a group III nitride
compound semiconductor laminate structure including an n-type GaN compound semiconductor
layer and a p-type GaN compound semiconductor layer. An n electrode can be formed
on the n-type GaN compound semiconductor layer, and a p electrode can be formed
on the p-type GaN compound semiconductor layer. The n electrode preferably includes
an Al layer of 1 to 10 nm, in contact with the n-type GaN compound semiconductor
layer, and any metal layer of Rh, Ir, Pt, and Pd formed on the Al layer. The p
electrode can be made of a 200 nm or less layer of of Pd, Pt, Rh, Pt/Rh, Pt/Ag,
Rh/Ag, Pd/Rh, or Pd/Ag, in contact with the p-type GaN compound semiconductor layer.
Both electrodes can make ohmic contact with respective n-type/p-type GaN semiconductors
without application of active annealing.