Vicor develops vertically mounted BCM array

This is a high-efficiency (typically 95 per cent), high-power (up to 650W), vertically mounted BCM array, which provides isolation and conversion from 380V to 12V or 48V for low-voltage distribution near the point of load (POL).

It incorporates the technical attributes of VI Chip technology in a robust package that facilitates thermal management.

It also combines a high-voltage bus converter with an integrated heat sink, simplifying thermal management and minimising board space.

The VI Brick BCM Array is suitable for PFC front-end applications, providing the capability of a high-voltage bus with minimal distribution losses.

This is a highly efficient solution for applications using POL and is available with 384V and 352V nominal input voltages and output voltages of 11VDC, 12VDC, 44VDC and 48VDC.

The efficiency and compact size of these modules yields power density up to 290W/in3 and a fast transient response.

Models with an output power of up to 650W in a board space of less than 2in2 will also be available in a 1U high package.

The vertical package orientation also provides better exposure of the heat sink to system airflow.

The VI Brick BCM Array is suitable for server applications using a PFC front end requiring relatively high power levels with challenging thermal issues.

The offline power can be bussed to the motherboard and converted to either 48V or 12V, which minimises distribution losses, reduces conversion steps, improves efficiency and lowers overall cost.

In addition, the fact that less capacitance is required for energy storage near the load returns further space and cost savings.

These products can be used in a variety of applications that require high efficiency, high power density, improved thermal management, low noise, fast transient response and overall design flexibility.

The 384V input modules are available from stock in sample size quantities.

The standard lead time for higher quantities is four to six weeks.