Isolated DC/DC Power ICs and Discrete Power Supply Solutions for Distributed Power Architectures

RECOM offers designers the choice between fully integrated DC/DC modules and IC-based discrete solutions. A module is pre-assembled, qualified, and ready for immediate use. In contrast, a discrete solution based on power ICs and synchronous rectifier ICs provides greater flexibility in terms of layout, component placement, and thermal design. Integration into existing SMT processes remains fully supported. At the same time, increasing production volumes enable cost advantages comparable to those of conventional SMD components. RECOM thus combines both approaches within a consistently structured product portfolio.

A central element of this strategy is the RVP and RVS series from RECOM. The RVP series comprises unregulated primary-side transformer driver power ICs, while the RVS series provides secondary-side synchronous rectifier ICs. In combination, these components enable the implementation of isolated DC/DC converters with power levels up to 10W. The ICs are designed for a high level of integration and support the realization of functional isolation up to reinforced isolation. At the same time, the number of external components is reduced, minimizing design effort, bill of materials, and potential sources of error.

The RVP series of unregulated DC/DC power ICs supports input voltages up to 30V and is available in various topology variants to address different system requirements. Push-pull power ICs such as RVP010, and RVP6501 address a wide range of isolated applications. The RVP6501 offers pin and functional compatibility with the industry-established 6501-type, allowing existing designs to be migrated with minimal layout modification effort.

For applications focused on simplified magnetics design, the RVP001, RVP003, and RVP005 types utilize a full-bridge topology. This eliminates the need for a primary-side center-tapped winding, simplifying the winding structure and reducing magnetic asymmetries. The symmetrical drive of the transformer core supports efficient utilization of the magnetic material.

On the secondary side, the RVP drivers can be combined with the intelligent synchronous rectifier IC RVS002. The RVS series replaces conventional diode rectifiers, significantly reducing secondary-side power losses. Through synchronous rectification, conduction losses are minimized, efficiency is increased, and thermal stress is reduced. At the same time, the number of external components such as dummy resistors or additional compensation components is lowered. The result is a reproducible, layout-friendly design with improved efficiency.

To further reduce development effort, RECOM supports its IC solutions with pre-qualified SMD transformers from the RMR series. These transformers are electrically matched to the parameters of the RVP driver power ICs and enable discrete isolated DC/DC converters with defined insulation classes – from 1500VDC functional isolation up to 8000VDC reinforced isolation.

The validated combination of primary-side power IC, transformer, and secondary-side synchronous rectifier significantly shortens the prototyping phase and reduces design risk. In addition to standard variants, customer-specific voltage combinations up to 24V are available for high-volume applications. This enables application-specific solutions with short time-to-market, without compromising an established supply chain.

The RVP and RVS ICs feature integrated protection functions such as short-circuit protection, soft-start, and an extended operating temperature range from −40°C to +125°C. Input voltages up to 30V are supported. These characteristics qualify the components for industrial, energy, and medical applications with increased requirements for robustness, electrical isolation, and long-term stability.

Typical application areas include:

• Isolated gate driver supplies
• Industrial control and process automation systems
• Medical devices and diagnostic systems
• Test and measurement equipment
• Isolated communication interfaces

The RVP and RVS solutions therefore address applications in the energy, industrial, and medical sectors where compact, scalable, and isolated DC/DC converters are required.