DC/DC converters for high-volume microwave applications

Two new isolated DC/DC converters, the PKU4611A and PKU4617A, have been introduced by Flex Power Modules in the sixteenth-brick form factor. The new converters are ideal for low-power radio frequency power amplifier (RFPA) requirements within small cell radios and microwave applications. They offer a wide output trim range, which is optimized for the needs of low-power radio designs that require a five to seven volt supply.

For cost-sensitive and high-volume applications, the converters offer an excellent price-performance ratio. The converters’ design provides a relatively flat component landscape, which facilitates easy cooling within sealed box environments using thermal pads, and also makes manufacturing simpler, thus further contributing to lower overall system cost.

The converters’ efficiency is high, at typically 94% at half load and five volt output voltage. With an input voltage range of 36 to 60V, both variants provide up to 60W output power: the PKU4611A at up to 5V/12A, and the PKU4617A at up to 6V/10A.

The new devices are aimed at small cell and microwave applications requiring a five to seven volt bus at up to 60W and 2,250V isolation, in a sealed box environment. In particular, they are well suited to small cell applications for in-building wireless access, and outdoor microwave equipment supporting mobile broadband such as 3G, 4G and 5G.

Olle Hellgren, Director of Product Management and Business Development at Flex Power Modules, said: “With these new converters, Flex Power Modules has focused our attention on optimizing cost wherever possible, delivering a cost-efficient solution, without any compromise on quality, thermal performance or reliability.”

The converters are provided in a low-profile sixteenth-brick form factor, measuring 33.02×22.86×8.4mm.

They provide 2250V DC input-to-output isolation, and meet safety requirements according to IEC/EN/UL 62368-1. Flex Power Modules’ highly automated manufacturing processes, with certification to ISO 9001/14001, ensure consistent quality, and the converters offer a mean time between failures (MTBF) of 5.2 million hours. The PKU-A series is available in OEM quantities.