Emerson Launches New Intermediate Bus Converters
Emerson Network Power has launched two intermediate bus converters (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 non-isolated point-of-load (POL) converters in distributed power systems with 9.6V intermediate bus architectures, making them well-suited low-cost replacements for larger form factor converters. The IBCs are claimed to be cost-effective solutions for applications with well regulated 48V input voltages, or for feeding general purpose wide input POL converters which can tolerate some supply variation.
The new IBC60 quarter-brick and IBC32 eighth-brick IBCs are designed to operate from a 38 to 55Vdc supply, have a fixed 5:1 conversion ratio and generate an isolated, unregulated dc output. When fed with a 48Vdc supply, the converters generate a 9.6Vdc output. The IBC60 can deliver up to 60A - achieving a power density in excess of 400 Watts per cubic inch - and a typical load regulation figure of 2.5% for all load conditions; the IBC32 has a 32 A 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 converter’s house-keeping needs. This proprietary technology is a result of an ongoing research and development program in high efficiency dc-dc converters. The topology also employs a ’driven synchronous system’, in which all power switches are directly controlled by the PWM controller. Compared to 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 pin-outs and footprints, and are based on a single-board package designed for through-hole board mounting. The eighth-brick IBC32 measures 2.3 x 0.9," while the quarter-brick IBC60 has a 2.3 x 1.45" 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 minimize profile. They have an installed height of just 0.48", making them well-suited for system racks with very tight card pitches.
The IBCs use advanced component layout and thermal design techniques to maximize 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 +85 °C without a heatsink, and are suitable for both convection cooled and forced air environments. The converters are comprehensively protected against overtemperature and overcurrent conditions and also feature undervoltage lockout, non-latching 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 2250Vdc 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.
