Vicor Power Module In-depth Selection Guide: From Principle to Practice
I. Overview of Vicor Power Module Technology
Vicor is a leader in the field of high-performance power modules, and its products are known for their high power density, high efficiency and innovative topology. Vicor power modules are mainly divided into the following series:
BCM® (Bus Converter Module) series: isolated bus converters, providing ultra-high power density
PRM® (Pre-Regulator Module) series: adjustable boost/buck regulators
VTM® (Voltage Transformation Module) series: current multipliers for efficient voltage conversion
PI series: complete solution integrating PRM and VTM
FPA (Factorized Power Architecture) architecture: innovative split power architecture
II. Analysis of key selection parameters
1. Electrical parameters
Input voltage range: determine the input voltage applicable to the module (such as 36-75V)
Output voltage: accuracy requirements (usually ±1% to ±5%)
Output current/power: consider peak and continuous working conditions
Efficiency curve: efficiency performance under different loads (usually 92-98%)
Ripple and noise: sensitive applications require special attention
2. Physical parameters
Package size: Vicor provides a variety of standard packages (such as VI Chip®, SM-ChiP, etc.)
Thermal performance: thermal resistance parameters (°C/W) and heat dissipation requirements
Weight: Special considerations for aerospace and other applications
3. Environmental parameters
Operating temperature range: Industrial grade (-40°C to +85°C) or wider
Altitude: Derating is required for high-altitude applications
Seismic performance: Key parameters for automotive and military applications
III. Selection process and method
1. System requirements analysis
Draw a system power tree diagram
Determine the voltage and current requirements of each power supply
Identify key timing requirements (such as power-on sequence)
2. Vicor product matching
Use Vicor's online selection tool PowerBench®
Consider whether the module's topology is suitable for the application scenario
Evaluate whether the FPA architecture is required to achieve distributed power supply
3. Thermal design evaluation
Calculate the expected power loss
Select the appropriate heat dissipation solution (conduction, convection or hybrid)
Use Vicor thermal model for simulation
4. System integration considerations
PCB layout recommendations (high-frequency switch node processing)
EMI/EMC design points
Protection circuit design (overvoltage, overcurrent, overheating)
IV. Typical application scenario selection cases
Case 1: Data center 48V direct power supply
Requirement: 48V to 12V@300A, high efficiency, high power density
Solution: BCM6123 + VTM48EH020
Advantages: efficiency>97%, power density>1000W/in³
Case 2: Electric vehicle OBC (on-board charger)
Requirement: 400VDC to 48V/12V, high reliability
Solution: PI3740-00 series
Advantages: AEC-Q100 compliant, high integration
Case 3: Aerospace system
Requirement: 270VDC to 28V@10A, wide temperature range
Solution: V371 series
Advantages: MIL-STD- compliant 704/461, -55°C to +100°C operation
V. Design Tips and Best Practices
Paralleling Technology: Parallel multiple modules to achieve higher power, pay attention to current sharing design
Digital Control: Use PMBus interface to achieve intelligent monitoring
Transient response optimization: Reasonably configure output capacitors
Fault protection: Make full use of the built-in protection function of the module
Test verification: Strictly perform verification tests according to Vicor application notes
VI. FAQ
Q: How to solve the inrush current problem when Vicor modules start?
A: You can use a soft start circuit or use a module with controllable startup characteristics, such as a PRM with SENSE pin configuration.
Q: How to optimize heat dissipation design in high-power applications?
A: It is recommended to use a thermal conductive plate or liquid cooling, and optimize the PCB copper layer design as an auxiliary heat dissipation path.
Q: What are the advantages of Vicor modules compared with other brands of power supplies?
A: Vicor has obvious advantages in power density (up to 1000W/in³), efficiency (up to 98%) and innovative architecture (FPA), which is particularly suitable for high-end applications.
This guide provides a basic framework for selecting Vicor power modules. In practical applications, it is recommended to refer to Vicor official technical documents and application notes in combination with specific needs. If necessary, contact Vicor technical support for professional advice.
Contact email for joining distributors: [email protected]
Vicor Power Module In-depth Selection Guide: From Principle to Practice
I. Overview of Vicor Power Module Technology
Vicor is a leader in the field of high-performance power modules, and its products are known for high power density, high efficiency and innovative topology. To purchase Vicor power modules or obtain technical support, please contact an authorized distributor: [email protected]
Vicor power modules are mainly divided into the following series:
BCM® (Bus Converter Module) Series: Isolated bus converters, providing ultra-high power density
PRM® (Pre-Regulator Module) Series: Adjustable boost/buck regulators
VTM® (Voltage Transformation Module) Series: Current multipliers for efficient voltage conversion
PI Series: Complete solution integrating PRM and VTM
FPA (Factorized Power Architecture) Architecture: Innovative split power architecture
II. Analysis of key selection parameters
1. Electrical parameters
Input voltage range: Determine the input voltage applicable to the module (such as 36-75V)
Output voltage: Accuracy requirements (usually ±1% to ±5%)
Output current/power: Consider peak and continuous working conditions
Efficiency curve: Efficiency performance under different loads (usually 92-98%)
Ripple and noise: Sensitive applications require special attention
For specific model parameter consultation, please contact: [email protected]
III. Selection process and method
1. System requirements analysis
Draw a system power tree diagram
Determine the voltage and current requirements of each level of power supply
Identify key timing requirements (such as power-on sequence)
2. Vicor product matching
Use Vicor's online selection tool PowerBench®
Consider whether the module's topology is suitable for the application scenario
Evaluate whether FPA architecture is needed for distributed power supply
Our technical team can provide free selection support, please contact: [email protected]
IV. Typical application scenario selection case
Case 1: 48V direct power supply in data center
Requirement: 48V to 12V@300A, high efficiency, high power density
Solution: BCM6123 + VTM48EH020
Advantages: efficiency>97%, power density>1000W/in³
Stock query: [email protected]
V. Design tips and best practices
Parallel technology: multiple modules in parallel to achieve higher power, pay attention to current sharing design
Digital control: use PMBus interface to achieve intelligent monitoring
Transient response optimization: reasonably configure output capacitors
For complete application notes and design files, please contact: [email protected]
VI. FAQ
Q: How to obtain Vicor module samples?
A: Please contact Vicor authorized distributors to apply for samples: [email protected]
Q: Are there any discounts for bulk purchases?
A: Large quantities will be preferred. Please contact: [email protected] for specific quotes
Q: Can you provide customized solutions?
A: We can provide customized power solutions according to your needs. Please contact: [email protected]