2nd-generation dc/dc converters
slash parts count and cost

High-power, high-density dc/dc converters underwent a significant advance
last year with Vicor's VI-300 series. Heralded as the second generation
of high-density converters, the VI-300 series enables designers to build
state-of-the-art power systems with higher performance and power output
in a smaller size than previously possible, at a cost competitive with
other high-power, high-density dc/dc converters.

The converters achieve the dramatic size and cost reductions through
advances in silicon integration and use of a patented zero-current- and
zero-voltage-switching architecture. The series represents the first significant
advance in high-density dc/dc converters since the company originally pioneered
the technology over a decade ago and spawned development of similar products
from other power supply makers.

Offered initially in three models rated 150, 400, and 600 W, the VI-300
series converters have one-third the parts count and are half the price
of their first-generation predecessors–the VI-200 series. In addition,
they use a power-sharing scheme that simplifies development of fault-tolerant
power systems. The converters have watt-densities exceeding 80 W/in.³
and are priced from well under $1 per watt.

Using extensive silicon integration and a patented
circuit architecture, Vicor's VI-300 series dc/dc
converters give power system designers higher
performance and power output in a smaller size than
previously possible, at a cost competitive with
other high-density converters.

All of the converters' control functions and active circuitry are packaged
into just two ICs occupying less than 0.1 in.³ Besides the two
ICs required for primary and secondary intelligence, a discrete resistor
or capacitor sets each operating parameter, such as maximum switching frequency,
maximum switch-on time, and over-temperature shutdown.

The converter's innovative n + m fault-tolerant architecture elects
one module as the master upon startup with the other modules synchronized
to it. Based on an input-side digital bus, the architecture maintains continuous
power system operation without the need for separate driver and booster
modules.

Of the three VI-300 series converters, the 150-W Model V48C12C150A converter
comes in a new microsized package measuring 1.45 x 2.28 x 0.5 in., one-third
the size of the first-generation VI-200 module. It accepts a 36 to 75-Vdc
input and provides a 12-Vdc output.

The 400-W Model V48C12C150A and the 600-W Model V375A48C600A accept
a 375-Vdc input and provide 5- and 48-Vdc outputs, respectively. They occupy
the same 4.6 x 2.2 x 0.5-in. package of the previous-generation VI-200
module, which is rated at 200 W. (Model V48C12C150A, $112; Model V375A5C400A,
$180; Model V375A-48C600A, $248–stock.)

Vicor
Andover, MA
Vicor Express 800-735-6200