During 2003, the focus in dc-dc converters shifted from the actual converters to the distributed-power architectures using these devices. Sure, many announcements heralded better dc-dc converter performance. But even greater attention was paid to architectural developments that promise to bolster performance as well as reduce cost and space requirements for power systems.
Several vendors expressed their support for the intermediate voltage bus architecture (IBA) by introducing the necessary bus converters. Even the IC manufacturers got in the game by offering bus converter chips and chip sets. Simultaneously, a mounting number of nonisolated point-of-load converters (POLs) debuted. Many of these devices are no doubt aimed at IBA applications, which rely more on nonisolated point-of-load converters than on bricks.
Meanwhile, Vicor unveiled the Factorized Power Architecture (FPA) and a related set of BGA-style power components. The performance specifications FPA promised were outstanding. But its approach of distributing a pre-regulated but nonisolated high-voltage dc bus to a series of isolated POLs generated wonder and confusion.
By now, some of that confusion may have dissipated since the company openly discussed the new approach's rationale and principles of operation. Vicor also removed a potential hurdle to commercializing FPA by licensing it to Celestica. As the electronics industry continues to recover, the battle between FPA and IBA should heat up.
A general interest in nonisolated POLs has led to a proliferation of these devices. Many hundreds of models have emerged to provide countless combinations of voltages, currents, and package types. The glut of part numbers has many clamoring for standardization.
In response, some vendors have adopted the footprint and pinout of Tyco's Austin series. Others have opted for alternatives like Texas Instruments' POL alliance. Meanwhile, Datel has advocated the eighth brick as a POL standard.
Power-supply vendors will also try to resolve how much of the dc-dc converter should be digital. Microcontrollers are now being used to add features and enhance performance for otherwise analog designs. But some vendors want to push digital further, using it to manage the control loop and create a more flexible converter design.
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