PRM™ Modules (Propensity Regulated Modules)
PRM (Propensity Regulated Module) series provide high-efficiency, regulated point-of-load power conversion with advanced control technology. These modules deliver precise voltage regulation with fast transient response for applications requiring tightly regulated power supplies.
PRM Modules Overview
PRM (Propensity Regulated Modules) represent Vicor's implementation of high-efficiency, regulated power modules using advanced control technology. These devices are designed for applications requiring precise voltage regulation with excellent efficiency and fast transient response. PRMs can be used independently as regulated bus converters or as part of Factorized Power Architecture (FPA) when paired with VTM modules.
The advanced control technology in PRMs provides exceptional regulation accuracy while maintaining high efficiency across the full load range. These modules are ideal for powering sensitive loads that require tightly regulated voltage supplies with fast dynamic response to load changes. The compact design enables high density power systems while providing the precise regulation required by modern processors and FPGAs.
Key Features and Benefits
Precise Voltage Regulation
PRM modules provide tight voltage regulation with excellent load and line regulation characteristics, typically ±1-2% total regulation across temperature and load conditions.
- ±0.5% to ±2% total regulation
- Excellent line regulation
- Superior load regulation
- Temperature-compensated regulation
High Efficiency
PRM modules achieve high efficiency across the load range, typically reaching 94-96% efficiency with peak efficiency exceeding 95% for most models.
- Up to 96% efficiency
- High efficiency at light loads
- Consistent efficiency across load range
- Low thermal dissipation
Fast Transient Response
Advanced control technology provides excellent dynamic response to load transients, making PRMs suitable for powering processors with fast-changing current demands.
- Fast response to load changes
- Low output voltage overshoot
- Quick settling after transients
- Handles fast dI/dt requirements
Advanced Control Technology
PRMs utilize advanced control techniques to optimize performance, efficiency, and regulation accuracy while maintaining stability.
- Multi-loop control
- Current mode control
- Adaptive compensation
- Predictive control algorithms
Compact Packaging
Available in VIA and ChiP packages for high-power density applications with minimal external component requirements.
- VIA and ChiP package options
- High power density
- Minimal external components
- Surface-mount compatibility
Factorized Power Architect
PRMs can function as components of Factorized Power Architecture when combined with VTMs for high-current, fast-response applications.
- Works with VTMs in FPA
- Current multiplication capability
- Preserved dynamics
- Galvanic isolation option
PRM Product Series
PRM High Efficiency Series
PRM modules optimized for maximum efficiency across the load range, ideal for applications where thermal performance is critical.
Key Specifications:
- Power range: 200W to 1000W
- Efficiency: up to 95.5%
- Regulation: ±1%
- Package: VIA
- Temperature: -40°C to +125°C
Target Applications:
- High-efficiency applications
- Thermally constrained systems
- Battery powered systems
- Energy-conscious designs
PRM Fast Response Series
Enhanced control technology for applications requiring ultra-fast transient response and tight regulation under dynamic loads.
Key Specifications:
- Power range: 100W to 500W
- Efficiency: up to 94.8%
- Response time: sub-µs
- Package: VIA, ChiP
- Regulation: ±0.5%
Target Applications:
- Processor power supplies
- FPGA power systems
- ASIC power supplies
- Fast transient loads
PRM Automotive Series
AEC-Q100 qualified PRM modules for automotive applications with temperature, vibration, and EMI requirements.
Automotive Specifications:
- AEC-Q100 qualified
- Temperature: -40°C to +125°C
- Vibration and shock tested
- EMC compliance for automotive
- PPAP capable
Automotive Applications:
- Engine control units
- Safety system power
- Infotainment supplies
- EV charging systems
PRM Aerospace Series
High-reliability PRM modules for aerospace and defense applications with enhanced environmental specifications.
Enhanced Specifications:
- Qualified for high-reliability
- Extended temperature range
- Radiation hardness options
- Hermetic packages
- Enhanced life testing
Aerospace Applications:
- Satellite power systems
- Avionics power supplies
- Defense electronics
- Space exploration systems
Technical Specifications
| Model Series | Power Range | Efficiency | Regulation | Package | Features | Applications |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PRM040240100T000 | 100W | 94.2% | ±0.5% | VIA | Fast response, high efficiency | Processor power, FPGA supplies |
| PRM040240150T000 | 150W | 94.5% | ±0.8% | VIA | High efficiency, compact size | Industrial control systems |
| PRM040240250T000 | 250W | 94.8% | ±1.0% | VIA | High efficiency, good regulation | High-current point-of-load |
| PRM040240500T000 | 500W | 95.1% | ±1.2% | VIA | High power, tight regulation | High-power computing systems |
| PRM040241000T000 | 1000W | 95.3% | ±1.5% | VIA | Maximum power density | Highest power point-of-load |
Key Parameter Definitions
- Regulation: Measure of how closely the output voltage is maintained when input voltage and/or load current changes
- Line Regulation: Change in output voltage for a given change in input voltage at a fixed load
- Load Regulation: Change in output voltage for a change in load current at a fixed input voltage
- Transient Response: Time for output voltage to settle within acceptable bounds after a load step change
- Efficiency: Power out / Power in expressed as a percentage at specified load and conditions
Target Applications
Processor Power Supply
High-efficiency power supply for CPUs, GPUs, and other processors with tight voltage regulation and fast transient response requirements.
- Voltage tolerance tight requirements
- Fast current slew rates
- High-current, low-voltage
- Thermal management critical
FPGA Power Systems
Power supplies for FPGAs with multiple rails requiring precise timing and fast response to changing computational loads.
- Multiple output rails
- Fast load transient response
- High efficiency at various loads
- Compact size requirements
Data Center Power
Efficient power delivery for server platforms with high power density requirements and efficiency mandates.
- High efficiency required
- High power density
- Reliability critical
- Thermal management important
Automotive Electronics
Regulated power supplies for automotive ECUs, safety systems, and infotainment with automotive qualification requirements.
- AEC-Q100 compliance
- Vibration and temperature robust
- EMC compliance
- Safety-critical operation
Telecommunications
Power supplies for networking equipment with low noise requirements and high efficiency needs.
- Low noise operation
- High efficiency
- Compact form factor
- Reliability in 24/7 operation
Industrial Control
Power supplies for factory automation and process control with wide temperature and noise immunity requirements.
- Wide temperature range
- EMI/EMC compliance
- High reliability
- Vibration resistance
Factorized Power Architecture (FPA) Integration
When used together with VTM (Vicor Transformer Module), PRM modules create Factorized Power Architecture systems for high-current, fast-transient applications:
PRM Role in FPA
In FPA systems, the PRM provides regulation while the VTM provides current multiplication and galvanic isolation:
- Regulates output voltage
- Controls power flow
- Provides closed-loop stability
- Operates at intermediate voltage
System Benefits
The PRM+VTM combination provides unique benefits:
- Preserved load-side dynamics
- Current multiplication with isolation
- High efficiency at high currents
- Fast transient response
FPA Implementation Guidelines
Proper FPA implementation requires careful consideration of PRM and VTM selection:
- PRM output voltage must match VTM input requirements
- Combined current capability must exceed load requirements
- Overall regulation accuracy is determined by PRM
- System transient response is preserved from load-side
Design Resources
PRM Application Notes
Implementation guides and design examples for various PRM applications and system topologies.
PRM Selection Guide
Guidance for selecting the right PRM based on power level, regulation accuracy, and response requirements.
Thermal Design Guide
Thermal management strategies for PRM modules in various applications and environmental conditions.
Engineering Perspective
When to Use PRMs vs. Alternative Solutions
Choose PRMs when you need:
- Precise voltage regulation with high efficiency
- Fast transient response to dynamic loads
- Compact regulated power solution
- Factorized Power Architecture implementation
- Alternative to traditional POL regulators
For applications where regulation is not required, consider DCMs which offer higher efficiency without regulation complexity. For applications requiring only current multiplication with isolation, BCMs may be more appropriate. For FPA applications with high current requirements, consider PRM+VTM combinations.
Design Considerations
When implementing PRMs in your design:
- Ensure adequate input and output capacitance for stability and transient response
- Consider the effect of ESR on regulation accuracy
- Design for thermal management requirements based on power dissipation
- Implement proper feedback layout to avoid noise coupling
- Consider remote sensing if voltage accuracy at the load is critical
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between PRM and traditional POL regulators?
PRMs use Vicor's advanced control technology to deliver high efficiency with excellent regulation accuracy. While traditional POL regulators (like linear or standard buck converters) may have lower efficiency at full load, PRMs deliver efficiency approaching unregulated converters while maintaining tight regulation. PRMs also offer better transient response in many applications compared to standard control architectures.
Can PRMs be used in FPA with VTMs?
Yes, PRMs are specifically designed to work with VTMs in Factorized Power Architecture systems. The PRM provides regulation while the VTM provides current multiplication with galvanic isolation. This combination provides high current delivery with preserved load-side dynamics and excellent efficiency.
What is the efficiency of PRM modules?
PRM modules achieve high efficiency across the load range, typically exceeding 94% for most models and reaching up to 95.5% for peak efficiency. The advanced control techniques optimize efficiency across varying load conditions while maintaining regulation accuracy.
How do PRMs handle load transients?
PRMs use advanced control techniques to provide fast transient response to load changes. The response time is determined by the control loop bandwidth and output capacitance. In FPA implementations with VTMs, the load-side dynamics are preserved for even faster response to transients.
Can multiple PRMs be paralleled for higher current?
PRMs can be paralleled for higher current applications, but special considerations are required for stable current sharing. Please consult the application notes for specific paralleling guidelines as implementation may require additional components or control techniques.
Need PRM Solutions for Your Application?
Our FAE team specializes in PRM selection and implementation. Contact us for technical support, custom solutions, or volume pricing.