Vicor PI3101 cool-power high-density isolated DC-DC converter

Vicor has released the PI3101 cool-power high-density isolated DC-DC converter that is suitable for end systems such as telecom and wireless infrastructure, networking and communications, power-over-ethernet applications and high-speed server platforms.

Delivering a regulated 3.3 V at up to 18 A, from an input voltage range of 36 to 75 V DC, the device achieves 25 W/cm³ - said to be three to four times the power density of other units - and optimises board area by providing 16.5 W/cm².

The converter combines isolation, voltage transformation and output regulation in a surface-mount, power-system-in-package platform with a 3.6 cm² footprint and 6.7 mm profile. The range is built on a ZVS topology using control silicon integration, planar magnetics and power semiconductor technology, enabling switching frequencies of more than 1 MHz with up to 87% efficiency.

Fast transient response to dynamic loads limits the requirement for output bulk capacitance, and EMI performance is improved due to its inherent low-noise and high-frequency characteristics.

The device is equipped with a variety of programmable features, including: +/-10% output voltage trimming, programmable soft-start capability, remote on/off enable and an accurate temperature-monitor function that provides an analog output voltage proportional to the internal temperature of the product, serving also as a fault alarm.