TDK-Lambda has been busy recently with new product releases in the category of DC-DC converters — electronic circuits designed to convert a direct current source from one voltage to another. Depending on the intended application, either of two new series from the company — the PXD series and the RGA series — may be worth a closer look.
PXD series
Applications for the 40 W- and 60 W-rated models in the PXD series, released in August, include industrial control, telecom/datacom, test, measurement and battery-operated equipment.
Featuring a 2 inch x 1 inch footprint, these DC-DC converters are designed with a copper case providing six-sided shielding for reduced electromagnetic interference (EMI). They can operate from a wide 4:1 input range (9 V DC to 36 V DC or 18 V DC to 75 V DC) that can be valuable in inventory reduction programs in which one part number covers multiple nominal voltages.
A selection of single-output models (ranging from 3.3 V DC to 48 V DC) and dual-output models (±12 V DC to ±48 V DC) is available. A trim function allows single-output models to be adjusted to compensate for voltage drops or to accommodate non-standard system voltages. All models feature a negative logic remote on/off function as standard, which can be used to reduce the input current to a low 3 mA to prolong battery life for portable equipment in stand-by mode. No minimum loading is required.
TDK-Lambda pegs converter efficiency at up to 93%, which minimizes power losses and allows the products to operate with a case temperature from -40° C to 105° C. Output power derating can be reduced using optional heatsinks or system airflow.
RGA series
The 250 W-rated RGA series released in June are ruggedized, non-isolated DC-DC converters designed for use in harsh environment applications including robotics, automated guided vehicles (AGVs) and portable battery-powered equipment.
In a 1/16th brick form factor, measuring 35.6 mm x 25.6 mm x 13 mm, these converters are encapsulated to provide shock and vibration resistance. A five-sided aluminum case reduces radiated EMI and enables conduction cooling to a cold plate for fanless operation. Like their PXD cousins, the RGA series can operate from a wide input range (9 V DC to 40 V DC or 9 V DC to 53 V DC) that can be leveraged in inventory reduction.
As a step-down converter (also known as a buck converters), the RGA models deliver adjustable output ranging from 3.3 V DC to 15 V DC, 24 V DC or 40 V DC, with a maximum output current of 20 A. Features such as an output voltage adjustment pin and negative logic remote on/off are standard; optional features include output sequencing and frequency synchronization.
TDK-Lambda rates converter efficiency at a whopping 98%, with case temperature operating ranges from -40° C to 110° C. Optimized dynamic voltage response reduces the need for external output capacitance and, as a result, reduces board space requirements as well.
