The BCM Automotive Series features AEC-Q100 qualified current multiplication bus converters with bidirectional power flow designed specifically for automotive applications. These modules are engineered for the harsh automotive environment while maintaining Vicor's signature high efficiency and power density, providing high-current solutions for automotive power systems.
Overview
The BCM Automotive Series represents Vicor's solution for automotive applications requiring current multiplication with preserved dynamics. These devices are specifically designed and tested to meet automotive industry requirements for reliability, environmental conditions, and electromagnetic compatibility.
The fixed-ratio transformation (typically 1:4, 1:2, or 1:1) makes them ideal for applications where you need high current at a lower voltage from a higher voltage source in automotive systems. The bidirectional design enables power flow in both directions, suitable for regenerative braking and other automotive applications.
Key Features
AEC-Q100 Qualified
Full AEC-Q100 qualification ensures reliability and performance in harsh automotive environments with extreme temperature and vibration.
Current Multiplication
BCM modules multiply current while reducing voltage based on the turns ratio, ideal for high-current automotive applications.
Bidirectional Power Flow
Supports power flow in both directions, essential for regenerative braking and battery charging/discharging in electric vehicles.
Automotive-Grade Reliability
Engineered and tested to meet automotive industry standards for vibration, shock, temperature range, and electromagnetic compatibility.
Technical Specifications
| Model | Power Range | Efficiency | Input Voltage | Turns Ratio | Max Output Current | Package | Temperature Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BCM4E51T100A015-H | 300W | 97.2% | 36-75V | 1:4 | 120A | VIA | -40°C to +105°C |
| BCM4E51T100A030-H | 600W | 97.5% | 36-75V | 1:4 | 240A | VIA | -40°C to +105°C |
| BCM4E51T100A046-H | 1000W | 97.7% | 36-75V | 1:4 | 400A | VIA | -40°C to +105°C |
| BCM4E31T100A046-H | 1000W | 97.4% | 24-55V | 1:2 | 400A | VIA | -40°C to +105°C |
| BCM3E31T100A023-H | 500W | 97.3% | 36-75V | 1:2 | 200A | VIA | -40°C to +105°C |
Applications
BCM Automotive modules are optimized for automotive applications requiring current multiplication with preserved dynamics. Common applications include:
48V Mild Hybrid
Current multiplication for 48V to 12V conversion in mild hybrid vehicle power systems with bidirectional flow.
Electric Vehicle Power
High-current power conversion in electric vehicle battery management and charging systems.
Automotive Electronics
Power supplies for automotive control units, safety systems, and electric power steering requiring high current.
Design Considerations
Automotive Environment
BCM Automotive modules are qualified for automotive temperature ranges (-40°C to +105°C) and tested for vibration, shock, and EMC compliance. Design must ensure proper derating in high-temperature environments to maintain reliability.
EMC Requirements
Automotive applications have strict EMC requirements. BCM Automotive modules have inherently low EMI characteristics. Additional filtering may be required to meet specific automotive standards.
System Integration
BCM Automotive modules excel in applications where you need high current multiplication with preserved dynamics in automotive environments. They are ideal for applications where load transients are handled by the upstream power source.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does AEC-Q100 qualification mean?
AEC-Q100 is an industry-standard qualification for integrated circuits in automotive applications. It includes tests for temperature, humidity, vibration, and electromagnetic compatibility.
How do automotive BCMs differ from standard BCMs?
Automotive BCMs are AEC-Q100 qualified, have extended temperature range qualification, and additional testing for automotive-specific environmental conditions and EMC requirements.
What automotive standards do these modules meet?
BCM Automotive modules are designed to meet automotive industry standards for EMI, vibration, shock, temperature cycling, and other environmental requirements.
Related Products
DCM Modules
Fixed-ratio bus converters with galvanic isolation for voltage transformation without regulation.
PRM Modules
Regulated bus converters designed to work with VTMs in Factorized Power Architecture (FPA).
VTM Modules
Vicor Transformer Modules for current multiplication with isolation in FPA systems.