
EPC, Microchip team on thin 48V GaN DC-DC converter designs
GaN power device developer EPC has launched two demonstration boards for high efficiency 48 V DC-DC conversion in a thin form factor.
The EPC9153 is an extremely thin 250W, power module using a simple, low-cost synchronous buck configuration delivering a 98.2 per cent peak efficiency with a maximum component height of 6.5 mm. The EPC9148 uses a multilevel topology to achieve a maximum component height less than 4 mm, while maintaining a 98 percent peak efficiency.
Both solutions integrate Microchip Technology’s dsPIC33CK digital signal controller (DSC) with the latest generation 100 volt eGaN FETs from EPC. These solutions achieve greater than 98% efficiency at 12.5 A in an ultra-thin footprint. The flexibility of the Microchip digital controller allows the input voltage of these boards to be adjusted from 44 V – 60 V and the output voltage from 5 V – 20 V.
The EPC9148 multilevel converter reducing the size of modules supporting magnetic components, while achieving high efficiency in a compact design. One of the highlights on the EPC9148 board is a custom extremely thin power inductor from Würth Elektronik, which helps to enable the ultra-high power density of this design.
The EPC9153 offers a simple, low-cost synchronous buck configuration that keeps the maximum component height low with less than 40°C temperature rise at 20 V output. The eGaN FETs from EPC improve the overall efficiency with their fast switching capability and their chip-scale footprint make it easy to cool in an effort to achieve the low temperature rise required for these compact designs.
“Computers, displays, smart phones, and other consumer electronics systems continue to become thinner and more powerful,” said Michael de Rooij, EPC’s Vice President of Applications Engineering. “We are thrilled to work with partners such as Microchip Technology and Würth Elektronik to develop ultra-thin and highly efficient solutions to address the challenge of getting more power out of limited space and volume.”
The EPC9148 is priced at $281.25, while the EPC9153 is priced at $309.96.
Both demonstration boards are available for immediate delivery from Digi-Key
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