Power

DC/DC converter module supplies RF power amplifiers

16th February 2015
Barney Scott
0

Designed to supply the voltage to power transistors that are used in integrated Radio-Frequency Power Amplifier (RFPA) applications, Ericsson has launched a 200W DC/DC converter module in an eighth-brick format. The PKB4216C series module offers flexibility with its adjustable output voltage of 15-33V, which makes it possible to power a wide range of power transistors.

The module also reduces voltages when the RF power amplifier has been in sleep mode, thereby decreasing power consumption. Delivering power up to 200W and an output current up to 6.67A, the new PKB4216C is also suitable for powering RFPA applications that use semiconductor technologies such as Laterally Diffused Metal Oxide Semiconductor (LDMOS).

In addition to powering RFPA applications, the output voltage range meets specifications as defined by the Antenna Interface Standards Group (AISG), which mandates a 10-30V input voltage range to power active RF antennas. The module’s voltage range also covers 24 and 28V, making it suitable for its use in industrial applications interconnected to ICT equipment that requires either a sub-24 or 28V supply from the mains rectifier.

A key feature of the PKB4216C series is that it has been designed for deployment in environments where only natural convection will be available. The series’ mechanical design has been optimised to reduce thermal resistance to an absolute minimum between power dissipating components and the cold-wall conduction-cooling element, thereby delivering outstanding thermal performance for applications that have limited airflow such as integrated antennas.

Available in an industry-standard eighth-brick footprint with dimensions of 58.4x22.7x8.6mm, the module delivers 95% typical efficiency at 30V output half load, guaranteeing low power dissipation and reduced energy consumption. Operating over a 36-75V input voltage range, the PKB4216C series meets requirements for normal input-voltages ranges in 48 and 60VDC systems.

“In many integrated applications such as the latest integrated radio power amplifiers, there is limited opportunity for cooling via ventilation, therefore it becomes more necessary to employ thermal conduction via ‘cold wall’ techniques, exchanging heat with the external environment,” commented Patrick Le Fèvre, Marketing and Communication Director, Ericsson Power Modules. “The 200W PKB4216C employs advanced techniques developed by Ericsson and has been especially optimised for conduction cooling, quickly transporting heat away from system components in applications such as RFPAs.”

Offering an MTBF of 3.53m hours, the PKB4216C series meets safety requirements according to IEC/EN/UL 60950-1 and offers input/output isolation of 1500VDC. The series also includes many protection features including output over voltage protection, input under voltage shutdown, over temperature protection, output short-circuit protection and pre-bias start-up capability.

The PKB4216C series is available for both through-hole (PI version) and surface-mount (SI version) assembly.

Product Spotlight

Upcoming Events

View all events
Newsletter
Latest global electronics news
© Copyright 2024 Electronic Specifier