Modular DC-DC system design done right
You will learn topics such as input and output filtering, protections, compatibility with the source and load dynamics
The need for 48V to support 12V
The need for 48V to support 12V
Data center, automotive and advanced industrial markets are deploying 48V power delivery networks (PDNs) as system power levels continue to increase; 48V based architectures maximize power network efficiency while maintaining Safety Extra Low Voltage (SELV) levels. The growing use of 48V PDNs requires compatibility for powering legacy 12V systems and infrastructure. Conventional 1/8 and 1/4 open frame brick converters are large and bulky and do not meet the power density needs of advanced systems. In addition, conventional converter topologies have inefficiencies that can reduce the 48V distribution gains.
Applications transitioning to 48V
Computing
As rack power increases to meet the demands of cloud and AI computing workloads the move to 48V has begun and is being supported by the Open Compute Project (OCP) consortium with its Open Rack Standard V2.2 for distributed 48V server backplane architectures and a 48V standard operating voltage for AI Open Accelerator Modules (OAM). These new standards require 48V to 12V and 12V to 48V compatibility to support 12V legacy backplanes and 12V multiphase VRs for processors. Learn more
Automotive
The need to meet new CO2 emissions standards while also increasing vehicle performance and adding new features has brought about the era of electrification and a new 48V standard LV148. Providing power to conventional 12V electric and the growing number of advanced 48V loads requires high-density module usage versus larger and bulkier discrete type solutions automotive uses today. Learn more
Advanced industrial
This broad and expanding set of applications has high power requirements but have some form of human contact for operation or maintenance reasons. Maintaining Safety Extra Low Voltage (SELV) levels is important. Applications such as large scale LED displays, Robots and ATE (Automatic Test Equipment) take advantage of 48V power delivery but have multiple lower power 12V based loads. Providing power systems engineers with a high density, easy to use 48V to 12V power module simplifies their design and power system footprint.
Higher performance 48V to 12V conversion that rivals conventional solutions
Vicor has introduced new high-density and high-efficiency module solutions for bridging 48V to 12V and 12V to 48V systems. These regulated and fixed-ratio converters are enabling 48V PDN deployment with its inherent efficiency advantages while alleviating the burden of re-designing 12V legacy systems. These converters establish new power conversion performance standards along with options for various application needs.
Benefits of Vicor modules
Benefits of Vicor modules
High density
Modular and scalable
Efficiency up to 98%
Lightweight
Vicor power modules for bridging 48V and 12V
The new standard for 48V to 12V conversion
6x reduction in density vs. conventional 1/4 brick-sized products
The DCM3717 has established a new power density benchmark for regulated 48V to 12V conversion with a 6x reduction in size over a conventional 1/4 brick converter. The compact size of the DCM3717 allows for easy board placement on existing 12V boards eliminating the need for a major redesign. Parallel operation is also possible to attain higher power levels above the 750W capability of one module. The DCM3717 is a complete converter solution requiring minimal external components adding to its high-density, low-impact design capability.
Buck regulators for lower power downstream loads
For lower power applications, the PI3526 ZVS Buck delivers 200W from a 10 x 14 x 2.5mm packaged LGA SiP and the PI3546 ZVS Buck delivers 100W from a 10 x 10 x 2.5mm LGA SiP; both devices have 96% peak efficiency. Parallel operation is also possible to attain higher power levels. ZVS Bucks require an external inductor and input/output ceramic capacitors.
Highest performance for 48V to 12V and 12V to 48V conversion
Fixed ratio converters offer an alternative to regulated converters providing higher power density and efficiency. The NBM2317 is inherently bidirectional with a K:1/4 in step-down operation and K:4/1 in step-up mode offering the same efficiency processing power in either direction. The NBM2317 requires minimal external components and can be easily paralleled to attain higher power levels.
Fixed ratio conversion: 1/4
Input: 38 – 60V step-down, 9.5 – 15V step-up
Output: 9.5 – 15V step-down, 38 – 60V step-up
Power: 800W continuous, 1kW peak
23 x 17 x 7.4mm
Resources
Resources for the design engineer
Power modules offer new possibilities for uncharted EV power challenges
Economically, there is a lot hanging in the balance with automotive electrification. It may be the most important power challenge of our time
Vertical power delivery enables cutting-edge processing
New developments are challenging power system designers with managing PDN impedance voltage drops, transient performance specifications and power loss
Aerospace and defense power FAQs
A compilation of commonly asked questions about Vicor power solutions in aerospace and defense applications