Power

Pulsiv reveals remarkably cool 65-70W USB-C modules at PCIM 2025

7th May 2025
Harry Fowle
0

At this year’s PCIM expo in Nürnberg, Pulsiv caught lots of attention with what could be a transformative step forward in USB-C fast charging for installed applications.

The UK-based power electronics specialist unveiled a new line of fully assembled 65W–70W USB-C modules that deliver impressively high efficiency, extremely low temperatures, and compact form factors – targeted at integration into wall sockets, desks, and furniture. To learn more, I sat down and spoke with Nick Theodoris, Director of Global Sales & Distribution at Pulsiv, about the core features of this exciting new solution.

Addressing the critical problem

The standout feature by far? These modules operate at just 32°C above ambient at full load – reportedly the lowest operating temperature for any module in this class – while achieving peak efficiency of 97.34%. That’s a significant achievement in a category that typically wrestles with heat dissipation and size constraints, especially as demand for higher-power USB-C charging in fixed installations continues to rise.

The challenge Pulsiv addressed is well-known: most embedded USB-C ports deliver only 15–30W, which falls short for laptops and other high-power devices. When power levels rise to 45W–65W, traditional designs often overheat due to constrained airflow and tight installation spaces, with some cutting output back to 15W – or shutting down entirely.

Pulsiv’s solution integrates its proprietary OSMIUM-optimised PFC with a standard QR flyback in an ultra-compact cube (36mm x 36mm x 40mm) or flat (55mm x 37mm x 25mm) module. Notably, it uses GaN technology to sustain continuous full-load operation for more than eight hours without exceeding the 32°C thermal threshold.

Not just a one trick pony

Another unique advantage lies in its patented switching method, which eliminates inrush current. This is particularly beneficial in environments with multiple installed USB-C outlets, where simultaneous power restoration could otherwise trip protection circuits.

These modules support a wide range of charging protocols (PD3.1, QC4.0, BC1.2, PPS), include 1C or 2C USB-C connectors, and offer an input voltage range of 210–264VAC (with 110V available on request). They are suitable for low-volume prototyping, mass production, and customers with limited in-house design capability. For those wanting to develop their own implementations, reference designs and BOMs are available on the Pulsiv website.

A notable long-term benefit comes from the lower 200V HVDC stage – unlike conventional 400V topologies – which enables the use of dry polymer capacitors instead of wet aluminium ones, extending operational lifespans up to 25 years.

Pulsiv is accepting pre-orders through distribution partners including DigiKey and Farnell, and hinted at more to come. A 240W version is planned for release by the end of 2025, with 100W and 140W variants also under consideration.

For companies exploring custom options, Pulsiv is open to developing bespoke modules with minimal or no NRE, depending on order quantities.

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