RPM

Podcast Transcript

Jeff: Welcome to RECOM's Powerful Podcast, where we discuss new topics and products. I'm Jeff Deutschman, your product moderator. From a quarter watt up to 1,000 watts, whether the power is required for an industrial setting, a new IoT gadget, or a high-end medical-grade device, RECOM has you covered.

In this episode, we are covering the RPM. So, Peter, these are non-isolated DC/DC converters. Does this make them similar to our R-78 family?

Peter: You got that right, Jeff. The RPM series are non-isolated supplies. However, they shouldn't be thought of as a replacement for the R-78s. They are a premium solution for more demanding applications.

Jeff: Okay, what are some of the target applications that we should be looking at for these RPMs?

Peter: That's an excellent question, Jeff. These are for customers that may need surface mount, higher power and temperature, maybe for your multi-cell battery systems, or for IT applications, just to mention a few.

Jeff: So, what are some of the advantages of the RPMs?

Peter: The RPMs have an extremely high efficiency, with some models reaching up to 99%. Like most RECOM solutions, there is no need for external components. They also come with some extra features, such as a control pin, a voltage sense pin, a sequence option, as well as a power good function.

Jeff: Wow, very impressive. What's the footprint for these, Peter?

Peter: Well, we designed these to fit within a very compact package. These converters come in a DOSA compatible footprint. They are 12x12mm and have a 4mm height.

Jeff: That makes the overall footprint less than 1/4" x 1/4" and only 4mm height? That's incredible! How are we able to do this?

Peter: Well, Jeff, that was one of our main focuses while developing this product. Many competitors have two or three times the height. We were able to drastically reduce this by using two small inductors, where the competition uses a single large inductor. This means we were able to have some of the highest power density converters on the market.

Jeff: Okay, so why would our customers want to buy an SMD module made from SMD components rather than just placing the SMD components directly on their PCB?

Peter: That's a very valid question, Jeff. Here are some reasons why customers should consider this. Logistics and production security, IC data sheets, which don't always tell the whole story, designing for EMC and thermal management, and the overall cost will be less with the module.

Jeff: Okay, very nice. What kind of power options come with the RPMs?

Peter: There are a few power options here. The RPMs come with a 1A, 2A, 3A, or 6A options. The customer has a choice of a 3.3V or a 5V output.

Jeff: Wow. That's a lot of power. So, is there any thermal derating with a 3 or 6A option?

Peter: Actually, there is very minimal derating with all these parts, Jeff, including the higher power options.

Jeff: But Peter, how can this be?

Peter: Well, we use high-quality PCBs that are built with plugged vias. Using plugged vias is a special technique used to improve the thermal conductivity, which allows the converter to operate at full loads at high temperatures.

Jeff: Alright, what is the temperature range for the RPMs?

Peter: The RPM-1.0 can output full load with a 100°C ambient temperature. I should mention that this particular model can operate at higher temperatures because it is the lowest power.

Jeff: Sounds like we put a lot of effort into the R&D on these, Peter. Where are these being built?

Peter: Good question, Jeff. These converters are unique because they are tested and manufactured completely in Europe.

Jeff: Outstanding. So, another terror-free RECOM converter. Gotta love that. Thanks for sharing, Peter.

Well, that wraps it up for another episode of RECOM's Powerful Podcast. Be sure to listen next time when we delve into the pros of another RECOM topic. As always, please contact your regional sales manager for any samples or pricing. Our applications engineers are always happy to assist you with any technical questions or requests. You can email them at techsupportamericas@recom-power.com. Until then, have a great day and always remember, RECOM powers your products!