Quarter brick DC-DC converter takes power densities to new levels

Flex Power Modules has introduced a new device to its range of quarter brick non-isolated DC-DC converters that take power densities to new levels. The BMR351 has a 40-60V input range and delivers a non-isolated but fully regulated output of 12.2V nominal. The rated output current is 136A continuous (1600W max) and 200A peak for up to 500ms (2320W max). The converter features outstanding efficiency levels, peaking at over 98% and with a typical value of 97.8% at 54 Vin and half load.

These converters can be paralleled by utilising the droop load sharing technique for higher power and incorporating a PMBus interface for configuration, monitoring and control, with the output adjustable over the range of 8V to 13.2V. Hardware pins are provided for remote sense, power good and remote control. The company's innovative 'black box' event data recorder is also implemented for diagnostics after fault occurrences.

The device targets baseplate cooling and is characterised by a component hotspot temperature of 125C. Comprehensive thermal management enables safe peak power operation with fast and timed over-temperature protection, with an ALERT signal to indicate impending thermal shutdown. As with other company DC-DC products, the data sheet now characterises the parts power delivery with '3D' derating graphs defining allowable output powers at specified maximum baseplate and pin temperatures. The converter also incorporates input under-voltage lockout and output short-circuit, over-voltage, and over-current protection.

The Flex Power Designer Tool supports the converter for electrical and thermal simulation in the end application.

Olle Hellgren, director Product Management and Marketing of Flex Power Modules, comments: "Our BMR351 is ideal when maximum power density is needed along with high peak power rating, such as in server and cloud applications."