Miniature LLC converter powers AI with power density of 5130W/in3
A compact LLC converter based on GaN FeTs has been developed by EPC to power emerging applications such as AI and advanced computing. The EPC9159 has a benchmark power density of 5130W/in3.
The EPC9159 is a 1 kW, 48 V/ 12 V, LLC converter in a tiny 17.5 mm x 22.8 mm footprint, designed for high density 48V server power and DC/DC converters. This reference design can deliver 1kW of power in a tiny 17.5 x 22.8mm footprint which achieves its power density by employing GaN power switches operating at high switching frequencies in both the primary and secondary circuits, explained EPC.
The implemented LLC power supply topology consists of a primary side full bridge, a fixed ratio planar transformer, with a centre tab synchronous rectifier for the secondary side. The primary full bridge uses four EPC2619, 80V rated, 3.3 mOhm GaN transistors and the secondary uses six EPC2067, 40V rated, 1.3 mOhm GaN transistors.
The EPC9159 achieves a power stage efficiency of 98 per cent at 25 A and a full-load efficiency of 96.2 per cent at 83A into 12V. This design is suitable for high density computing applications such as AI and advanced gaming, said EPC.
The company said that its eGaN FETs and ICs provide the fast switching, small size, and high efficiency needed to provide the highest power density solutions for advanced computing applications. According to CEO, Alex Lidow, the EPC9159 addresses the growing power needs of artificial intelligence and supports the industry’s transition to 48V input for the new high density and high efficiency servers required for advanced computing applications.
The EPC9159 evaluation board is available for immediate delivery from Digi-Key Electronics.
EPC produces enhancement mode gallium nitride (eGaN) -based power management. It claims that its eGaN FETs and ICs provide performance many times greater than the best silicon power MOSFETs in applications such as DC/DC converters, remote sensing technology (lidar), motor drives for eMobility, robotics, and drones, and low cost satellites.
