UModule regulators reduce data centre cooling requirements

Adding the LTM4700 step-down DC/DC power regulator to the Power by Linear uModule regulators, Analog Devices claims that combines the highest power in its class with the energy efficient performance needed to reduce data centre infrastructure cooling requirements.

The module is configured as dual 50A or single 100A configuration to enable an increasing server density and boosts data centre throughout and computational power. All of this is done with minimal impact on system size and cooling costs, assures the company. The LTM4700 µModule’s integrated, component-on-package design includes onboard memory, data conversion circuitry and digital interface, reducing it to nearly half the size of competing devices, says the company.

Applications include cloud computing, high-speed computing and optical networking systems, communication infrastructure, and PCIe boards, as well as medical, industrial, and test and measurement equipment.

The LTM4700 operates at 73 degrees C using heatsink packaging technology, compared to modular solutions from competitors which typically run at 90 degrees C. The LTM4700 can deliver full 100A at 12Vin to 0.8Vout with 200 LFM air flow up to 70 degrees C ambient temperature. Peak conversion efficiency at 12Vin to 0.8Vout reaches 90 per cent. The µModule’s architecture also enables system designers to combine up to eight devices, delivering up to 800A of load current to meet the higher power needs of data centre processors, including FPGAs, ASICs, GPUs and microcontrollers.

The LTM4700 operates from a 4.5 to 16V input range, with output voltages digitally controlled from 0.5 to 1.8V. Integrated ADCs, DACs and EEPROM enable users to digitally monitor, record and control power parameters using an I²C PMBus interface. Switching frequency is synchronised to an external clock from 200kHz to 1MHz for noise-sensitive applications.

The LTM4700 also has self- and load-protection features against fault conditions such as over- and under-voltage, over-current and over-temperature.

According to Chris Mann, vice president of Power Products, Analog Devices, said: “Growing demand for higher-throughput, cloud-based computing services is placing a strain on current data centre infrastructures and requires a new approach to thermal dissipation. The LTM4700 effectively addresses this issue, allowing data centre operators to increase the density – and performance – of their servers.”

http://www.analog.com