The DCM Aerospace Series features high-reliability fixed-ratio DC-DC converters with galvanic isolation designed specifically for aerospace, defense, and space applications. These modules are engineered for extreme environmental conditions and include options for radiation tolerance, ensuring consistent performance in harsh operational environments.
Overview
The DCM Aerospace Series represents Vicor's solution for aerospace and defense applications requiring isolated DC-DC conversion with enhanced reliability. These devices are specifically designed and tested to meet stringent aerospace industry requirements for environmental conditions, reliability, and performance in extreme temperatures, vibration, and radiation environments.
The fixed-ratio transformation (typically 4:1 or 2:1) makes them ideal for aerospace bus conversion applications in satellites, aircraft, and defense systems. The isolated design provides safety isolation and noise immunity while enabling bidirectional power flow in aerospace power systems.
Key Features
Enhanced Reliability
Engineered for aerospace and defense applications with extensive life testing and enhanced screening for high-reliability performance.
Radiation Hardened Options
Available with radiation hardened options for space exploration and satellite applications with total ionizing dose (TID) and single event effects (SEE) protection.
Extreme Environment Tested
Characterized and tested for extreme temperature ranges, high vibration, shock, and other aerospace environmental requirements.
Hermetic Packaging
Available in hermetically sealed packages for applications requiring maximum protection from environmental contaminants.
Technical Specifications
| Model | Power Range | Efficiency | Input Voltage | Turns Ratio | Isolation | Package | Temperature Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DCM3E51T100A015-M | 300W | 95.4% | 36-75V | 4:1 | 2250Vdc | VIA-Hermetic | -55°C to +125°C |
| DCM3E51T100A030-M | 600W | 95.7% | 36-75V | 4:1 | 2250Vdc | VIA-Hermetic | -55°C to +125°C |
| DCM4E51T100A046-M | 1000W | 96.0% | 36-75V | 4:1 | 2250Vdc | VIA-Hermetic | -55°C to +125°C |
| DCM4E31T100A046-M | 1000W | 95.5% | 24-55V | 2:1 | 2250Vdc | VIA-Hermetic | -55°C to +125°C |
| DCM3E31T100A023-M | 500W | 95.5% | 36-75V | 4:1 | 2250Vdc | VIA-Hermetic | -55°C to +125°C |
Applications
DCM Aerospace modules are optimized for aerospace and defense applications requiring isolated DC-DC conversion without regulation. Common applications include:
Satellite Power Systems
Reliable power conversion for satellite systems with radiation tolerance and extreme temperature operation.
Avionics Power
Power supplies for aircraft avionics systems requiring high reliability and environmental qualification.
Space Exploration Equipment
Power conversion for spacecraft and planetary exploration equipment with extreme environment requirements.
Design Considerations
Extreme Environment Operation
DCM Aerospace modules are designed for extreme temperature ranges (-55°C to +125°C) and tested for vibration, shock, and radiation exposure. Design must account for derating in extreme conditions to maintain reliability and performance.
Radiation Effects
For space applications, consider total ionizing dose (TID) and single event effects (SEE) impacts. Radiation hardened options are available to ensure continued operation in high-radiation environments.
System Integration
DCM Aerospace modules excel in applications where you need a simple, efficient DC-DC conversion without regulation in extreme environments. They are ideal for bus conversion applications where downstream converters handle regulation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between standard and aerospace-qualified DCM modules?
Aerospace-qualified DCM modules undergo additional testing and screening for extreme temperature, vibration, shock, and radiation tolerance. They may also include hermetic packaging options.
What radiation tolerance options are available?
DCM Aerospace modules are available with radiation hardened options providing protection against total ionizing dose (TID) and single event effects (SEE) for space applications.
What certifications do these modules meet?
DCM Aerospace modules are designed to meet aerospace industry standards for environmental testing, reliability, and performance in accordance with various space and defense requirements.
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