New Industry Products

new family of dc/dc power modules

October 17, 1999 by Jeff Shepard

Ericsson Energy Systems (Sweden) recently launched a new family of dc/dc power modules, the PKN Series. According to Ericsson, the PKN Series utilizes patented techniques with synchronous rectification to achieve more than 90 percent efficiency between 30 percent and 100 percent of full load. The PKN can deliver full power without a heatsink up to 80 degrees C ambient with only 1m/s airflow. Ericsson claims the ceramic substrate, thick-film technology and planar magnetics achieve profile height of 8.5mm, a weight of 40 grams, and reliability of more than 200 years MTBF at 75 degrees C case temperature. The first model in the 48V/60V input PKN Series is the PKN 4501 PI, which offers 3.3V at 15A. One hundred percent testing and automated laser adjustment provides accurate voltage setting within +/-20mV, with 2mV line regulation and 10mV load regulation from one percent to 100 percent of full load ensuring that voltages are tightly controlled under the worst case conditions. The module includes input undervoltage and over-temperature shut-down, and remote on-off control, which is open collector TTL compatible. An alarm signal is available for remote monitoring, and can source up to 70mA. The PKN is packaged in 56mm x 61mm x 8.5mm, and features multiple output pins to simplify PCB layout, and enhance thermal performance. The isolated converter requires no additional filters or heatsinking to deliver only 50mV peak to peak ripple at full power. The PKN complies with environmental standards, such as IEC 68-2, and EMC specifications including EN 61000 and EN 55022. In quantities of 500, pricing for the PKN 4510 PI will be $76 each. Stock samples are currently available.