New Ericsson power interface modules integrate digital communication abilities to simplify energy monitoring

New I2C- and PMBus-compliant Power Interface Modules optimized for AdvancedTCA Blade and embedded computing systems
Integrated input-current monitoring negates need for additional components
PIM delivers output power up to 648W
Optimized for high efficiency – typically 98.7% at 10A output load

Ericsson has announced an extension of its 3E digital power module family with two new digital-communication-bus-enabled 540-648W low-profile quarter-brick Power Interface Modules (PIMs). Compliant with the 300W de facto industry-standard footprint and offering both I2C- and PMBus-based serial bus communications, the PIM4328PD and PIM4328PDA modules simplify board power monitoring and operational functionality without the need for additional external components, thereby shortening time-to-market and reducing development costs.

Based on the company’s high-efficiency PIM4328P analog platform, the addition of bus communication to the modules increases the level of flexibility offered by digital monitoring, including voltage/current input parameters, making it possible for systems architects to evaluate the power consumption at board level – an important parameter to accurately monitor efficiency and also aid system compliance with energy efficiency legislation, where necessary.

“The addition of the PMBus digital interface to a PIM module is a major step forward simplifying energy management and system monitoring,” said Patrick Le Fèvre, Marketing and Communication Director, Ericsson Power Modules. “Combined with the 3E Advanced Bus Converters and digital Point-of-Load DC-DC regulators, Ericsson is delivering the most advanced digital power portfolio to help systems architects reduce energy consumption.”

Originally designed for Advanced Telecom Computing Architecture (ATCA) applications – because of the huge benefits delivered by a standalone module in terms of board space and time-to-market – the Information and Communications Technology industry is rapidly adopting PIM technology, which is becoming an increasingly important component for system designers in the migration to new platforms. However, the new PIMs are also suitable for industrial, telecommunications or data communications applications employing distributed power architectures.

Communication Capabilities

The PIM4328PD embeds an industry-standard I2C /PMBus digital interface, which enables users to monitor the input and hold-up voltages, output current and device temperature. The product can be used with any standard two-wire I2C or SMBus host device. The PMBus-version of the module is compatible with PMBus version 1.2 and the product supports bus clock frequencies from 10 to 400kHz.

Via the PMBus interface, the module can monitor various different parameters and status/fault flags, in addition to continuously monitoring: Feed A voltage, Feed B voltage, output current, hold-up voltage, internal junction temperature, and status/fault flags such as feed under voltage, Output 1 under voltage and hot swap off. Via the I2C interface the PIM4328PDA can monitor six status bits and five analog measurements including hold-up capacitor voltage, Output 1 current, Feed A input voltage, Feed B input voltage and module temperature.

Electrical Performance

Offering 99% typical efficiency at 300W output, the PIM4328PD and PIM4328PDA maintain the high standards of the dynamic and load step performance required in ATCA equipment, while limiting power losses across the filtering unit to a very low level.

The modules operate over an input range of 36V to 75V and are able to sustain a permanent output current of 10A without forced airflow up to +70°C and up to +90°C with only 2.0m/s (400LFM) airflow. Output power is 390W 39V input (minimum) and up to 540W when the input is 54V (minimum). Due to excellent thermal design and use of high-performance components, when used in conjunction with a front-end power supply, output current can be extended up to 12A. This results in output power of 648W, allowing headroom when there is a requirement to upgrade boards with new processors or additional memory.

Protection and More…

The 2250V DC I/O-isolated 12W dual-power-management output voltages are 3.3V/3.6A and 5V/0.15A. Other features of the PIM4328PD and PIM4328PDA include protection against input transients, reverse polarity, over-temperature, over-current, input under-voltage and inrush current. The modules comply with RoHS requirements and have integral hot-swap functionality and hold-up charge and discharge management. The inputs include dual power feeds with ORing functionality and ‘enable’ signaling. The modules’ MTBF is 1.5 million hours (Telcordia SR-332 Issue 2, Method 1) and meets safety requirements according to IEC/EN/UL 60950-1.

Prices of the PIM4328PD and PIM4328PDA start at $47.50 and $48.50, respectively, in OEM quantities.

* Enhanced Performance, Energy Management, and End-user Value are the key benefits delivered by Ericsson’s range of 3E digitally controlled DC/DC converters.