Vicor 2317 NBM bidirectional 48/12 V converter

Vicor has released a bidirectional non-isolated fixed-ratio converter for hybrid 48/12 V power systems in data centre and automotive applications. The 2317 NBM is capable of providing up to 750 W continuously at 48 V from 12 V, or at 12 V from 48 V, with over 98% peak efficiency.

With up to 1 kW of peak power capability (for up to 2 ms) in a 23 x 17 x 7 mm surface-mount package, the product provides a complete solution with no external circuitry needed. By switching at 2 MHz, it provides low output impedance and fast transient response to dynamic loads. The unit incorporates hot-swap and inrush current limiting, increasing power system density and saving valuable board space.

In data centres that are still relying on legacy 12 V distribution, the converter supports 48 V input GPUs using Power-on-Package (PoP) modular current multipliers (MCMs) driven from a 48 V node sourcing a small fraction (1/48) of the GPU current. Current multiplication overcomes the power delivery boundaries imposed by traditional 12 V systems that limit higher bandwidth and connectivity.

In data centres that have been upgraded to a 48 V infrastructure, the converter can be used to support legacy 12 V loads. In mild hybrid and autonomous vehicles using 48 V, the product supports legacy 12 V subsystems from efficient power distribution at 48 V with or without dual batteries.