International Rectifier Debuts iP2001 Building Block for DC/DC Converter, Part of New iPOWIR Technology
International Rectifier (IR, El Segundo, CA) introduced iPOWIR technology, which the company claims is a completely new way to design on-board dc/dc converters for computing and communications equipment. With iPOWIR technology, all layout-critical power semiconductor and passive components of the circuit are integrated to form complete functional building blocks, reducing converter size as well as simplifying and reducing power system design time. Typical iP2001 applications include power supply circuits for desktop, server and workstation CPUs, as well as network processing unit and application-specific ICs used in networking, telecom switchers and routers.
The iP2001 is the first iPOWIR component, a high-current, multiphase dc/dc converter power building block, housed in an 11mm square package. IR claims that the iPOWIR architecture can increase dc/dc conversion efficiency by as much six percent, reduce power loss as much as 25 percent and shrink size from 44 to 58 percent, when compared to some circuits using discrete components or modules.
“The new generation of power-hungry ICs are forcing the use of more complex power conversion circuits than ever before. This means the interaction between the analog ICs with power components is critical. The integration of the layout-critical ICs and power components with iPOWIR technology offers the designer a layout-independent solution that is small, quick and easy to design with," said Chris Bull, IR's senior product marketing manager.
IR is currently alpha sampling this new technology with mass sample availability due in June or July of 2001. Production is scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2001.
