DC-DC Converters For Efficient Power Delivery

The 48V to 12V DC-DC converters support power delivery networks, reduce weight, and simplify the transition from legacy 12V systems.

Vicor has launched a new family of regulated 48V to 12V DCM DC-DC converters, offering power levels from 750W to 2kW with a peak power density of 5kW/in³. The DCM3717 and DCM3735 modules support the shift toward 48V power delivery networks (PDNs), which improve efficiency and power density and reduce weight compared to 12V PDNs.

These non-isolated, regulated converters operate from a 40–60V input and provide an adjustable output from 10V to 12.5V. Multiple DCM modules can be paralleled to scale system power as needed.

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With a power density of 5kW/in³, these DCM modules help power system designers implement high-performance 48V power delivery networks for legacy 12V loads, reducing size and weight and improving efficiency. The 5.2mm low-profile SM-ChiP™ surface-mount package enhances thermal performance, simplifying thermal management design.

Power delivery networks (PDNs) are shifting from 12V to 48V architectures to improve efficiency, a trend seen in high-performance computing, automotive, and other industries. However, adapting legacy systems designed around 12V presents challenges.

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Vicor, a 48V DC-DC power conversion leader, simplifies this transition with a 48V-centric power module approach. The new non-isolated DCM products work alongside Vicor’s BCM high-voltage fixed-ratio bus converters, which step down from 800V or 400V to 48V. Once a 48V bus is established, Vicor DCM modules efficiently convert 48V to a regulated 12V.

Industries like battery formation and test (BFT) and semiconductor automated test equipment (ATE) are moving toward 48V PDNs for a competitive edge but face challenges due to existing 12V power systems. Many BFT setups, for example, are designed around 12V conversion and cannot be easily adapted to 48V.

The modules help bridge this gap, allowing engineers to integrate 48V PDNs while maintaining their 12V investments. Vicor’s ecosystem of 48V power modules provides scalability and flexibility, enabling efficient conversion from high voltage to point-of-load across various applications.