MPU-controlled IBCs raise power efficiency

Intermediate bus convertors are capable of delivering exceptionally high levels of usable output power with a conversion efficiency of 97%.

Emerson Network Power has launched two intermediate bus convertors (IBCs) that are capable of delivering exceptionally high levels of usable output power with a conversion efficiency of 97%.

Forming the latest additions to the Artesyn family of high power density IBCs, the products comprise a 300W eighth-brick and a 642W quarter-brick.

Both IBCs are targeted at the telecommunications, networking, computing and industrial electronics markets.

They are intended primarily for powering multiple downstream nonisolated point-of-load (POL) convertors in distributed power systems with 9.6V intermediate bus architectures, where their superior performance makes them ideal low-cost replacements for larger form factor convertors.

The IBCs are especially cost-effective solutions for applications with well regulated 48V input voltages, or for feeding general purpose wide input POL convertors which can tolerate some supply variation.

The new IBC60 quarter-brick and IBC32 eighth-brick IBCs are designed to operate from a 38 to 55V DC supply, have a fixed 5:1 conversion ratio and generate an isolated, unregulated DC output.

When fed with a 48V DC supply, the convertors generate a 9.6V DC output.

The IBC60 can deliver up to 60A - achieving a power density of 24.9W/cm3 - and a typical load regulation figure of 2.5% for all load conditions; the IBC32 has a 32A output capability, and a typical load regulation figure of 2.3%.

Both IBCs use an advanced full bridge conversion topology, with a primary side microprocessor to simplify the convertor's housekeeping needs.

This proprietary technology is a result of an ongoing research and development programme in high efficiency DC/DC convertors.

The topology also employs a "driven synchronous system", in which all power switches are directly controlled by the PWM controller.

compared with the traditional self-driven synchronous rectifier approach, this provides much tighter timing control of the secondary side switches, resulting in higher efficiency.

The new IBCs have industry-standard pinouts and footprints, and are based on a single-board package designed for through-hole board mounting.

The eighth-brick IBC32 measures 58 x 23mm, whereas the quarter-brick IBC60 has a 58 x 37mm footprint and uses dual output pins to facilitate high current transfer.

Designed for fully automated assembly to help reduce manufacturing costs, the modules are constructed entirely from surface-mount components, using planar, in-the-board transformer structures to minimise profile.

They have an installed height of just 12mm, making them ideal for system racks with very tight card pitches.

The IBCs use advanced component layout and thermal design techniques to maximise efficiency, power density and reliability.

Based on a thermally efficient open-frame design, they are designed for operation over a wide ambient temperature range of -40 to +85C without a heatsink, and are suitable for both convection cooled and forced air environments.

The convertors are comprehensively protected against overtemperature and overcurrent conditions and also feature undervoltage lockout, nonlatching overvoltage protection, and remote on/off control.

They comply with the rigorous EMC requirements of ETS 300 386-1, feature EN60950-1 and UL/cUL60950-1 safety approvals, and are Pb-free (RoHS 6/6 compliant) products.

They also feature 2250V DC basic insulation and require no minimum load capacitance for stable operation.

These new IBCs are available for immediate delivery.

In OEM quantities of 1000, unit prices are US $45 for the eighth-brick IBC32, and US $60 for the quarter-brick IBC60.

Standard lead-time on all both products is stock to 8 weeks ARO.

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