Two eGaN FET demo boards demonstrate efficiency in thin electronic formats
Two demonstration boards released by EPC (Efficient Power Conversion) use the company’s eGaN FETs and enable highly efficient solutions for computing density in ultra-thin laptops, displays, high-end gaming systems and other physically thin consumer electronics.
The EPC9148 and EPC9153 demonstration boards for 48V DC/DC conversion are available now. The EPC9153 is a 250W, extremely thin, power module using a simple, low-cost synchronous buck configuration delivering a 98.2 per cent peak efficiency. It has a maximum component height of 6.5mm.
The EPC9148 uses a multi-level topology and realises a maximum component height of less than 4mm, while maintaining a 98 per cent peak efficiency.
Both solutions integrate Microchip Technology’s dsPIC33CK digital signal controller (DSC) with the latest generation 100V eGaN FETs from EPC. The FETs achieve greater than 98 per cent efficiency at 12.5A. The flexibility of the Microchip digital controller allows the input voltage of these boards to be adjusted from 44 to 60V and the output voltage from 5.0 to 20V.
The EPC9148 multi-level converter reduces the size of modules supporting magnetic components. It includes a custom, thin power inductor from Würth Elektronik, which helps to enable the high power density of the design.
The EPC9153 offers a simple, low-cost synchronous buck configuration that achieves 98.2 per cent peak efficiency, with less than 40 degrees C temperature rise at 20V output. The eGaN FETs improve the overall efficiency, says EPC, with fast switching and chip-scale footprint for cool operation even in 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.”
Both demonstration boards are available for immediate delivery from distributor, Digi-Key.
EPC specialises in enhancement-mode gallium nitride-based power management devices. EPC was the first to introduce enhancement-mode gallium-nitride-on-silicon (eGaN) FETs to replace power MOSFETs in applications such as DC/DC converters, wireless power transfer, envelope tracking, RF transmission, power inverters, remote sensing technology (Lidar), and class-D audio amplifiers. Device performance is many times greater than the best silicon power MOSFETs, says EPC. The company also has a growing portfolio of eGaN-based integrated circuits that provide even greater space, energy, and cost efficiency.
