Vicor™ Corporation announced the VI BRICK® AC Front End module for high density, high efficiency AC to DC power conversion. This new module is a complete AC-DC converter which operates over the universal AC input range of 85-264V to deliver a fully isolated and PFC regulated 48V output. In a low profile package measuring 3.75 x1.91 inches (95.3mm x 48.6mm) and only 0.38 inches (9.55 mm) in height, the AC Front End module provides a power conversion density of 121 W/in.3 (7.5W/cm3) or 54 W/in.3 for a complete supply that includes all necessary components including hold-up capacitance.
Every electronic product or system that operates off of an AC utility line must incorporate an AC-DC front-end to convert the AC utility voltage into the smooth DC voltage required by electronic circuitry. As the "firewall" between the utility and the customer's electronics, a contemporary front-end must perform complex tasks - such as power factor correction and noise reduction - to meet the stringent requirements of international regulatory agencies. The Vicor AC Front End module, with its integrated rectification, filtering and transient protection, enables customers to configure a complete front end system that meets IEC 61000-3-2 harmonic noise and Class B EMI conducted emission limits supplying 330W to external output storage capacitance. Its comprehensive performance features give customers the ability to simplify their regulatory certification processes and streamline their power system designs.
With its proprietary Double-Clamp ZVS high switching frequency topology, the AC Front End module achieves consistently high efficiency - up to 92% - across its entire AC input voltage range, including operation down to 85VAC and cuts power losses by more than 50% compared to competing offerings. The AC Front End also simplifies the customers' cooling requirements, reducing both the size and cost of cooling components.
The new VI BRICK® AC Front End module is compatible with a wide variety of downstream DC-DC power conversion components including Vicor's comprehensive portfolio of high-density, high efficiency, VI Chip and VI BRICK converters. When used with downstream DC-DC converters which support secondary-side energy storage and efficient power distribution, the AC Front End module provides superior power system performance and connectivity from the wall plug to the point of load and enables customers to design reliable and cost-effective power systems.
Vicor (COTS)
Part Number: VI Brick