BCM™ Modules (Bus Converter Modules)
BCM (Bus Converter Modules) provide current multiplication with galvanic isolation while preserving the voltage transformation ratio. These high-efficiency modules are designed for applications requiring high-current delivery with safety isolation in a compact footprint.
BCM Modules Overview
BCM (Bus Converter Modules) represent Vicor's implementation of current multiplication technology with galvanic isolation. These bidirectional, fixed-ratio converters provide current multiplication in both directions while maintaining voltage transformation. Unlike traditional transformers, BCMs have minimal no-load losses due to their self-biasing operation and can deliver high current multiplication ratios with excellent efficiency.
BCMs are ideal for applications requiring current multiplication with galvanic isolation, such as power delivery for high-current applications where voltage transformation is also needed. The bidirectional nature of BCMs makes them suitable for systems where power can flow in either direction, such as battery backup systems or bidirectional converter applications.
Key Features and Benefits
Current Multiplication
BCM modules provide current multiplication by the inverse of the voltage transformation ratio. For example, a 4:1 BCM multiplies current by 4:1 in the opposite direction of voltage transformation.
- Current multiplication with voltage transformation
- Preserved dynamics of the power delivery network
- Bidirectional power flow
Galvanic Isolation
BCM modules provide galvanic isolation with stand-off voltages up to 8000V, ensuring safety isolation between input and output power systems.
- Up to 8000V stand-off voltage
- Enhanced safety in power systems
- Common-mode noise rejection
High Efficiency
BCM modules achieve efficiency levels exceeding 96% across the load range, with peak efficiency greater than 97% for many models.
- Up to 97% efficiency
- Low power losses and thermal dissipation
- Minimal no-load losses
Compact Packaging
Available in VIA (Vertical Integrated Array) and ChiP packages for space-constrained applications with high power density requirements.
- VIA and ChiP package options
- High power density
- Minimal external components
Preserved Dynamics
BCM modules preserve the dynamics of the power delivery network, responding immediately to load changes with minimal delay.
- Immediate response to load changes
- Preserved power delivery network
- No bandwidth limitations
Wide Input Range
BCM modules support wide input voltage ranges, making them suitable for applications with varying input voltage requirements.
- Wide input voltage range
- Compatible with varying input conditions
- Robust operation under voltage variations
BCM Product Series
BCM High Power Series
High-power BCM modules designed for applications requiring substantial current multiplication with galvanic isolation.
Key Specifications:
- Power range: 200W to 2kW
- Efficiency: up to 97.5%
- Turns ratios: 4:1, 3:1, 2:1, 1:1
- Package: VIA, ChiP
- Isolation: up to 8000V
Target Applications:
- High-current power delivery
- Isolated power systems
- Battery backup systems
- Telecom power systems
BCM Low Profile Series
Space-constrained applications requiring current multiplication with galvanic isolation in a low-profile package.
Key Specs:
- Power range: 50W to 600W
- Efficiency: up to 96%
- Turns ratios: 4:1, 2:1, 1:1
- Package: LVI (Low Vertical Integration)
- Isolation: up to 2500V
Applications:
- Low-profile power systems
- Aviation systems
- Space-constrained designs
- Medical equipment
BCM Hybrid Series
Specialized BCM modules for applications requiring specific features or custom combinations of capabilities.
Features:
- Custom turns ratios
- Specialized packages
- Enhanced isolation options
- Specialized protection features
- Application-specific tuning
Uses:
- Specialized applications
- Custom power systems
- Unique voltage requirements
- Specialized safety systems
BCM Automotive Series
AEC-Q100 qualified BCM modules for automotive applications requiring current multiplication and isolation.
Automotive Specs:
- AEC-Q100 qualified
- Temperature: -40°C to +125°C
- Vibration and shock tested
- EMC compliance for automotive
- Lead-free and RoHS compliant
Automotive Uses:
- 48V to 12V conversion
- High-current distribution
- Isolation in power systems
- Safety-critical applications
Technical Specifications
| Model Series | Power Range | Efficiency | Turns Ratio | Isolation | Package | Applications |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BCM341x480 | 200W - 600W | 96.5% - 97.2% | 4:1, 2:1 | 2250Vdc | VIA | DC-DC conversion with current multiplication |
| BCM441x480 | 500W - 1200W | 96.8% - 97.5% | 4:1, 3:1 | 2250Vdc | VIA | High-current applications |
| BCM541x480 | 1000W - 2000W | 97.0% - 97.8% | 4:1, 3:1, 2:1 | 8000Vdc | VIA | High-power isolated systems |
| MCM Family | 50W - 600W | 95.0% - 96.5% | 4:1, 2:1, 1:1 | 2500Vdc | LVI | Low-profile applications |
Key Parameters Explained
- Turns Ratio: The voltage transformation ratio (e.g., 4:1 means input voltage is 4 times the output voltage)
- Current Multiplication: Current transformation is inverse to voltage transformation (4:1 ratio multiplies current by 1:4)
- Galvanic Isolation: Electrical separation between input and output with specified voltage stand-off capability
- Efficiency: Power out / Power in expressed as a percentage at full load and rated conditions
- Bidirectional: Power can flow in either direction with similar efficiency and performance
Target Applications
High-Current Distribution
Applications requiring high-current delivery from lower-voltage sources using current multiplication principle.
- Power delivery to high-current loads
- Current multiplication in distribution
- Galvanic isolation in current paths
48V to 12V Conversion
Efficient conversion in automotive and telecommunication systems requiring isolation.
- 48V power distribution systems
- Isolated 12V generation
- Current multiplication with isolation
Backup Power Systems
Systems where power flows bidirectionally between sources and loads.
- UPS systems
- Battery backup systems
- Energy storage systems
Isolated Power Systems
Applications where safety isolation is required between power domains.
- Medical equipment
- Avionics systems
- Safety-critical applications
Telecom Infrastructure
Power systems for base stations and network equipment requiring high power density.
- Remote radio head power supplies
- Isolated system power
- High-efficiency requirements
Industrial Systems
Factory automation and process control systems requiring reliable isolated power.
- Instrumentation systems
- Process control
- Isolated sensor power
Design Resources
BCM Application Notes
Design guides and implementation notes for various BCM applications and system topologies.
BCM Selection Guide
Step-by-step guide to selecting the right BCM for your specific current multiplication and isolation requirements.
Packaging Technology
Information about VIA and ChiP packaging technologies used in BCM modules.
Engineering Perspective
When to Use BCMs vs. Other Solutions
BCMS are ideal when you need both current multiplication and galvanic isolation with preserved dynamics. Consider BCMS when:
- You need current multiplication with voltage transformation
- Galvanic isolation is required for safety or noise purposes
- Fast dynamic response is important to preserve power delivery network dynamics
- Bidirectional power flow is needed
For applications requiring regulation, consider using BCMs in combination with PRMs in a Factorized Power Architecture (FPA). For simple voltage transformation without current multiplication, DCMs may be more appropriate.
Implementation Considerations
When implementing BCMs in your design, consider:
- Input and output capacitance requirements to optimize EMI and transient performance
- Thermal management, especially in high-power density applications
- Layout to minimize parasitic inductances that could cause ringing
- Protection circuitry if needed for specific applications
- Compatibility with rest of power system architecture
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between BCM and DCM?
BCMs provide current multiplication with galvanic isolation, while DCMs provide voltage transformation only without current multiplication. BCMS have bidirectional power flow capability whereas DCMS are unidirectional.
Can BCMs operate with any input voltage?
BCM modules have specified input voltage ranges that should be respected. The modules require sufficient voltage across them to bias the internal oscillator and are not designed to operate at extremely low input voltages.
What is the efficiency of BCM modules?
BCM modules achieve very high efficiency, typically greater than 96% across the load range, with peak efficiency often exceeding 97% for many models.
How do BCMs handle load transients?
BCM modules preserve the dynamics of the power delivery network, meaning they respond immediately to load changes without the bandwidth limitations of regulated converters. The response is determined by the output capacitance and the load current slew rate.
Can multiple BCMs be operated in parallel?
Yes, BCMs can be connected in parallel to increase current capacity. Their self-biasing nature and droop characteristics allow for natural current sharing, though layout should be considered for optimal sharing.
Need BCM Modules for Your Application?
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