DC/DC converters suit low-power RF power amplifier design
Two isolated DC/DC converters are suitable for low-power radio frequency power amplifier (RFPA) requirements within small cell radios and microwave applications. The PKU4611A and PKU4617A are isolated DC/DC converters in the 1/16 brick form factor from Flex Power Modules.
The converters offer a wide output trim range, which is optimised for the needs of low-power radio designs that require a 5.0 to 7.0V supply.
For cost-sensitive and high-volume applications, the converters offer an excellent price-performance ratio, claims Flex Power Modules. The design facilitates easy cooling within sealed box environments using thermal pads and also makes manufacturing simpler, to contribute to lower overall system cost.
The converters’ efficiency is high, at typically 94 per cent at half load and 5.0V output voltage. Input voltage range is 36 to 60V, with both variants providing up to 60W output – the PKU4611A at up to 5V/12A, and the PKU4617A at up to 6V/10A.
The PKU4611A and PKU4617A devices are aimed at small cell and microwave applications requiring a 5.0 to 7.0V bus at up to 60W and 2250V isolation, in a sealed box environment. They are particularly well suited to small cell applications for in-building wireless access, and outdoor microwave equipment supporting mobile broadband such as 3G, 4G and 5G.
The low-profile 1/16th brick form factor measures 33.02 x 22.86 x 8.4mm (1.30 x 0.90 x 0.33in).
The PKU4611A and PKU4617A provide 2250V DC input-to-output isolation and meet safety requirements according to IEC/EN/UL 62368-1. Flex Power Modules’ automated manufacturing processes, with certification to ISO 9001/14001, ensure consistent quality, and the converters offer a mean time between failures (MTBF) of 5.2 million hours. The PKU-A series is available in OEM quantities.
Flex Power Modules is a division of Flex. The company designs and manufactures scalable power supplies for advanced data centre, IT information and communications networks. Flex Power Modules also offers a wide product range for the industrial and transportation sector. The company’s products provide a complete on-board system solution for cloud, storage and server applications and address customer challenges while delivering superior quality, cost and performance at scale.
