High Performance Isolated DC/DC Converters

DC/DC bus converters are specialized power electronic devices that convert a source of direct current (DC) from one voltage level to another. These are particularly useful in various industrial and consumer applications where different components within a system require different voltage levels to operate effectively.

In 2007, FDK Corporation introduced the Sensei Series of isolated DC/DC converters with the announcement of a 330W bus converter in the industry-standard quarter brick format. The Sensei Series converters were designed for Intermediate Bus Architecture and Distributed Power Architecture applications that required high efficiency and high reliability in elevated temperature environments. In combination with its Senpai Series of non-isolated point of load converters, FDK provided a complete board-mounted power package for these architectures. The first product in the Sensei Series was an IBA bus converter that operates from a 36V DC to 55V DC input. Protection features included input under-voltage lockout, output over-current protection, output over-voltage protection, and over-temperature protection. Built-in current sharing enabled parallel operation without the need for external circuitry.

A bus converter is designed to provide a regulated DC output voltage from an unregulated DC input voltage. The "bus" in the term typically refers to the main supply voltage that powers the various subsystems or components within a device or piece of equipment, often referred to as the "bus voltage".

These converters are particularly important in situations where the input voltage can fluctuate. For example, the battery in an electric vehicle may discharge unevenly, causing the voltage it supplies to change over time. A DC/DC bus converter can help ensure that the electronic components of the vehicle continue to receive a stable and appropriate voltage despite these changes.

DC/DC bus converters typically use switching technology, where the converter rapidly switches the input voltage on and off, and uses inductors and capacitors to smooth and control the output voltage. This can be more efficient than linear voltage conversion, which dissipates excess power as heat.

They can be used in many applications, including computers, telecommunications equipment, industrial machinery, and vehicles. They are an essential part of power electronic systems, enabling the safe and efficient operation of a wide range of devices.