The digitally controlled, 40-A BMR451 non-isolated voltage regulator from Ericsson Power Modules offers a 7.9-A/cm3 (129 A/in.3) current density (see the figure). With this density, its embedded features, and its ability to monitor vital parameters through the open-standard PMBus interface, it suits a broad range of applications in information communication and technologies (ICT).
The BMR451 also suits new applications and applications that are being upgraded to reduce energy consumption or are migrating from passive energy monitoring to active energy management and control. The intermediate bus architecture isn’t limited to ICT applications, so the BMR451’s high power density and 8.5-mm profile suit it for applications where board space and good thermal performance are crucial, such as process control in industrial environments, sealed boxes, test equipment, and even transportation.
Smaller voltage regulators are easier to locate close to FPGAs, DSPs, and other processors, reducing power losses and parasitic inductance issues. Designers who need to reduce energy consumption by improving product efficiency can take advantage of these qualities. So can designers who need to permanently access strategic data from all of the power chain, from the front-end rectifier to the point of load.
According to Ericsson, the BMR451 offers an unprecedented level of monitoring functions (read-back data) through the PMBus open-standard interface compared to existing products. Access to strategic information such as load current, load status, temperature, and voltage deviations via PMBus makes it possible for designers and system architects to monitor down to the core functions level without adding external components or circuitry.
The BMR451 measures 30.85 by 20 by 8.2 mm (1.215 by 0.787 by 0.323 in). It offers a 4.5- to 14-V input voltage range, a 0.6- to 3.6-V output voltage range, and a mean time before failure (MTBF) figure of 2.6 million hours. Through-hole and surface-mount versions are available. Standard functions include remote on/off, overtemperature protection, output overcurrent/overvoltage protection, and input undervoltage protection. Its remote-control monitoring can be used for redundancy control.
The BMR451 has a unique serial number that relates to its chipset. In addition to offering traceability, this simplifies on-board part identification when performing board diagnostics during the full lifetime of the final equipment. The device also features a new layout concept, Digital Point of Load interconnect (DiPOL connect), which reduces power losses within the unit and in interconnections to end-users’ boards.
An available evaluation kit comprises an evaluation board, operating manual, a CD with a graphic user interface (GUI), and cables. The BMR451 costs $22.50 in OEM quantities.
Ericsson Power Modules
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