Vicor PRM-AL Customer Evaluation Boards User Manual
Prm-al customer evaluation boards, User guide | ug:003
UG:003
vicorpower.com
Applications Engineering: 800 927.9474
Page 1
Introduction
A Factorized Power Architecture offers a fundamentally new and improve d approach
to distributed power. Factorizing DC-DC power conversion into its basic functions
– isolation and transformation on the one hand and output voltage control and
regulation on the other – and arranging those functions in a sequence maximizes
power system performance and cost effectiveness. VTM® modules put isolated
current multiplication and voltage division directly at the Point of Load (POL), and an
upstream PRM®.
non-isolated regulator controls the Factorized Bus voltage supplied to the VTM to
provide line and load regulation. With this architecture, the Factorized Bus voltage
can be relatively high; distribution losses can be minimized with narrower copper
traces; and the PRM may be located at any convenient location, either adjacent to or
remote from the VTM. PRMs operate from a wide variety of input sources to drive
VTMs. VTMs are extremely fast and quiet and provide voltage division ratios as high
as 32. VTMs enable the user to efficiently supply up to 100 A from each full VI Chip®
package at regulated output voltages as low as 0.8 Vdc or higher, as needed.
With FPA, only a VTM is needed at the POL. VTMs, unimpeded by serial inductance,
feature very high bandwidth and extremely fast transient response, allowing
energy to be stored efficiently at the relatively high Factorized Bus voltage. Without
bulkcapacitors at the POL, precious board real estate may be reclaimed for essential
functions. The density, efficiency, performance, cost-effectiveness, and architectural
superiority of FPA make it the least intrusive form of distributed power and facilitate
the development of more advanced, competitive products.
The PRM may be used as a stan dalone non-isolated regulation stage, whereas the VTM
is intended to be used with a PRM.
IMPORTANT NOTICE:
Be sure to read this design guide manual thoroughly before using this product.
Pay attention to all cautions and warnings.
The Customer Evaluation Boards described in this document are intended to acquaint
you with the benefits and features of a Factorized Power Architecture (FPATM). They
are not designed to be installed in end-use equipment.
During operation, the power devices and surrounding structures can be operated safely
at high tem peratures.
n
Remove power and use caution when connecting and disconnecting test probes
and interface lines to avoid inadvertent short circuits and contact with hot surfaces.
n
When testing electronic products always use approved safety glasses. Follow good
laboratory practice and procedures.
PRM-AL Customer Evaluation Boards
USER GUIDE | UG:003
Contents Page
Introduction 1
Recommended 4
Hardware
Baseline Test
Converter Chip Set