DCM™ Modules (DC-DC Converter Modules)

DCM (DC-DC Converter Module) series provide high-efficiency, fixed-ratio bus converters with galvanic isolation. These modules offer efficient DC-DC conversion without regulation, ideal for applications requiring reliable voltage transformation with isolation.

DCM Modules Overview

DCM (DC-DC Converter Modules) represent Vicor's implementation of high-efficiency, fixed-ratio bus converters with galvanic isolation. These devices are designed for applications where you need efficient DC-DC conversion without regulation. The fixed-ratio transformation (typically 4:1, 2:1, or 1:1) makes them ideal for unregulated bus conversion applications where downstream converters handle regulation.

The ZVS topology significantly reduces switching losses, making DCMs particularly effective in high-power, high-density applications. The isolated design provides safety isolation and noise immunity while enabling bidirectional power flow. DCMs offer excellent EMI performance due to their soft-switching topology, making them suitable for noise-sensitive applications.

Key Features and Benefits

Fixed-Ratio Transformation

DCM modules provide fixed voltage transformation without regulation. Output voltage is directly proportional to input voltage based on the turns ratio.

  • Output voltage tracks input voltage
  • No regulation bandwidth limitations
  • Simple implementation
  • Consistent conversion ratio

Galvanic Isolation

DCM modules provide galvanic isolation with high stand-off voltages, ensuring safety isolation between input and output power systems.

  • Up to 2250Vdc isolation
  • Enhanced safety in power systems
  • Common-mode noise rejection
  • Ground loop elimination

High Efficiency

DCM modules achieve efficiency levels exceeding 95% across the load range, with peak efficiency greater than 96% for many models.

  • Up to 96.1% efficiency
  • Reduced thermal dissipation
  • Lower system cooling requirements
  • Energy cost savings

Zero Voltage Switching

ZVS technology reduces switching losses and electromagnetic interference while enabling higher frequency operation.

  • Lower switching losses
  • Reduced EMI
  • Higher frequency operation
  • Improved reliability

Fast Transient Response

Unregulated nature provides immediate response to load changes without control loop delays.

  • Immediate load response
  • No bandwidth limitations
  • Preserved power delivery dynamics
  • Fast recovery from transients

Compact Packaging

Available in VIA (Vertical Integrated Array) and ChiP packages for space-constrained applications.

  • VIA and ChiP package options
  • High power density
  • Minimal external components
  • Surface-mount compatibility

DCM Product Series

DCM High Power Series

High-power DCM modules designed for applications requiring efficient bus conversion with high current delivery.

Key Specifications:

  • Power range: 300W to 1.6kW
  • Efficiency: up to 96.1%
  • Turns ratios: 4:1, 2:1, 1:1
  • Package: VIA
  • Isolation: up to 2250V

Target Applications:

  • 48V to 12V conversion
  • High-power bus conversion
  • Isolated power systems
  • Telecom power systems

DCM Low Profile Series

Space-constrained applications requiring isolated voltage transformation in a compact form factor.

Key Specifications:

  • Power range: 100W to 600W
  • Efficiency: up to 95.7%
  • Turns ratios: 2:1, 1:1
  • Package: LVM (Low Vertical Mount)
  • Isolation: up to 2250V

Target Applications:

  • Low-profile power systems
  • Aviation applications
  • Space-constrained designs
  • Medical equipment

DCM Automotive Series

AEC-Q100 qualified DCM modules for automotive applications requiring isolated power conversion.

Automotive Specifications:

  • AEC-Q100 qualified
  • Temperature: -40°C to +105°C
  • Vibration and shock tested
  • EMC compliance for automotive
  • Lead-free and RoHS compliant

Automotive Applications:

  • 48V mild hybrid systems
  • Isolated 12V generation
  • Safety-critical power systems
  • Electric vehicle power conversion

DCM Aerospace Series

High-reliability DCM modules for aerospace and defense applications with enhanced environmental specifications.

Enhanced Specifications:

  • Qualified for harsh environments
  • Extended temperature range
  • Radiation hardened options
  • Hermetically sealed packages
  • Enhanced life testing

Aerospace Uses:

  • Satellite power systems
  • Avionics power supplies
  • Defense systems
  • Space exploration equipment

Technical Specifications

Series/Model Power Range Efficiency Turns Ratio Isolation Package Applications
DCM3E51T100 300W 95.4% 4:1 2250Vdc VIA 48V to 12V conversion
DCM3E51T100A030 600W 95.7% 4:1 2250Vdc VIA High-power 48V systems
DCM4E51T100A046 1000W 96.0% 4:1 2250Vdc VIA High-current applications
DCM4E51T100A092 1600W 96.1% 4:1 2250Vdc VIA Highest power density systems
DCM4E31T100A046 1000W 95.5% 2:1 2250Vdc VIA 2:1 voltage transformation
DCM3E31T100A023 500W 95.5% 4:1 2250Vdc VIA Mid-power applications

Key Parameter Definitions

  • Turns Ratio: The fixed voltage transformation ratio (e.g., 4:1 means input voltage is 4 times the output voltage)
  • 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
  • Fixed Ratio: Output voltage changes proportionally with input voltage with no regulation
  • ZVS Operation: Zero Voltage Switching technology reduces switching losses and EMI

Target Applications

48V Power Distribution

DCM modules excel in 48V to 12V conversion for data centers, automotive, and telecom applications with galvanic isolation.

  • Server power supplies
  • 48V mild hybrid vehicles
  • Telecom rectifiers
  • Industrial bus conversion

Industrial Systems

Power conversion for industrial automation, process control, and instrumentation with safety isolation requirements.

  • Factory automation
  • Process control systems
  • Instrumentation power
  • Isolated sensor power

Telecommunications

Efficient power conversion in telecom systems with high reliability and EMI requirements.

  • Base station power supplies
  • Optical network equipment
  • Radio equipment power
  • Backhaul equipment

Automotive Power

48V to 12V conversion for mild hybrid vehicles with safety isolation and automotive qualification.

  • Mild hybrid systems
  • Electric vehicle power
  • On-board chargers
  • Infotainment power

Aerospace & Defense

High-reliability power conversion for aviation and defense systems with harsh environment specifications.

  • Avionics power supplies
  • Satellite power systems
  • Military equipment
  • Space exploration equipment

Medical Equipment

Isolated power supplies for medical equipment with safety and EMI requirements.

  • Power for patient-connected devices
  • Imaging equipment power
  • Lab equipment power
  • Medical instrumentation

Design Resources

DCM Application Notes

Detailed application guides and design examples for implementing DCM modules in various power system architectures.

DCM Selection Guide

Step-by-step guide to selecting the right DCM for your specific voltage transformation and power requirements.

Thermal Design Guide

Guidance on thermal management strategies for DCM modules in various applications and environmental conditions.

Design Considerations

Input and Output Filtering

Though DCMs have inherently low EMI due to ZVS operation, proper input and output filtering is still important for optimal system performance:

  • Input capacitance for high-frequency current supply
  • Output capacitance for load transient response
  • EMI filtering for system compliance
  • Low-ESR capacitors for switching applications

Layout and Thermal Management

Proper layout and thermal management ensure reliable operation:

  • Thermal vias to transfer heat to PCB copper
  • Adequate copper area for heat spreading
  • Minimized current loops to reduce EMI
  • Proper clearance for safety isolation

System Integration Guidelines

When integrating DCMs into your power system:

  • Ensure input voltage is within the specified range for proper ZVS operation
  • Consider voltage regulation requirements in your system design
  • Account for the turns ratio when designing for voltage requirements
  • Implement proper protection if required for your application
  • Verify isolation requirements for your safety specifications

Engineering Perspective

When to Use DCMs vs. Alternative Solutions

Choose DCMs when you need:

  • Fixed-ratio voltage transformation with galvanic isolation
  • High efficiency without regulation complexity
  • Fast transient response (unregulated conversion)
  • Safety isolation between power domains
  • Simple implementation with minimal external components

For applications requiring regulation, consider using DCMs followed by a regulated POL converter. For current multiplication needs with isolation, consider BCMs instead. For high-current applications with preserved dynamics, consider FPA with PRM+VTM.

Benefits of Fixed-Ratio Conversion

Fixed-ratio conversion offers several benefits over regulated conversion:

  • No regulation loop bandwidth limitations
  • Immediate response to load changes
  • Simpler design with fewer components
  • Lower cost per watt
  • Predictable conversion characteristics

However, input voltage variations directly affect output voltage, so ensure your system can tolerate this behavior or has downstream regulation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between DCM and BCM?

DCMs provide fixed-ratio voltage transformation with no regulation or current multiplication. BCMs provide current multiplication with galvanic isolation. DCMs are unidirectional, while BCMs are bidirectional. Use DCMs for simple voltage transformation with isolation, BCMs for current multiplication with isolation.

Can DCMs handle varying input voltages?

Yes, DCMs can handle varying input voltages within their specified range. The output voltage changes proportionally based on the fixed turns ratio. For example, a 4:1 DCM will output 12V if input is 48V, or 10V if input is 40V. Downstream loads must tolerate this variance or have regulation following the DCM.

What is the efficiency of DCM modules?

DCM modules achieve very high efficiency, typically greater than 95% across the load range, with peak efficiency often exceeding 96% for many models. The ZVS technology contributes to these high efficiency levels while reducing switching losses.

How do DCMs handle load transients?

DCM modules provide immediate response to load transients as they are not regulated. The response is determined by the output capacitance and the load current slew rate. This preserves power delivery network dynamics but requires proper output capacitance sizing for transient response.

Can DCM modules be paralleled?

Yes, DCM modules can be naturally paralleled for higher power applications. Their inherent droop characteristics help promote current sharing between modules. Proper layout to balance current paths is recommended for optimal performance.

Need DCM Modules for Your Application?

Our FAE team specializes in DCM module selection and implementation. Contact us for technical support, custom solutions, or volume pricing.

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