VPT Introduces First 100K Rad Hard Point-of-Load DC-DC Converter

VPT, Inc. announced the availability of a new point-of-load power converter designed and manufactured for the extreme environment of space. The new SVGA Series point-of-load dc-dc converter is the latest addition to VPT’s existing line of space dc-dc converters, steps down the voltage at the point of use in a distributed power system and is optimized for today’s digital electronics.

Characterized to 100krad (Si) total dose radiation under VPT’s radiation program per MIL-PRF-38534, Appendix G, the SVGA Series is optimized for reliable performance in deep space missions, satellite applications, space station initiatives, and any ultra reliability application in a space environment.

"These modules are ultra light weight, have a tiny footprint, and offer incredible high efficiency to provide designers with a smaller point-of-of use power converter option over the standard size dc-dc converters. This saves both board space and weight and critical issues when designing spacecraft," explained Michael J. Bosmann, Senior Vice President of Marketing and Sales. "Affordability and reliable operation ensure that the SVGA Series is an optimum choice for tomorrow’s space programs."

Operating at a nominal frequency of 250 kHz, these regulated non-isolated converters serve low voltage point-of-load applications such as ASICs, processors, and other digital electronics. The SVGA point-of-load converters are designed and manufactured in facilities qualified to ISO9001 and certified to MIL-PRF-38534 Class H and Class K and MIL-STD-883.

Specific product features include: high power density, >100W/in3; operation from a wide 5V input; adjustable output voltage from 0.8 to 3.4V; up to 10A or 33W output power; up to 94% efficiency; output inhibit control; low output noise; no use of optoisolators; short circuit protection; precision projection welded hermetic package; MIL-PRF-38534 element evaluated components; characterization and assurance to 100krads (Si), per VPT’s RHA plan specified per MIL-PRF-38534, Appendix G, Level R (100krads) – after radiation exposure, converter testing is performed at 25°C per standard datasheet limits; characterization to 85.4 MeV-cm2/mg with minor transients only; no dropouts, shutdowns, latch up or burn out; and critical semiconductor component piece-parts and assured converter products

VPT’s certified radiation program per MIL-PRF-38534, appendix G, is currently under review by the Defense Supply Center Columbus (DSCC).

The radiation hardened SVGA modules are available with pricing beginning at US $2,100.00 in OEM quantities.