PKB4216C Series Direct Converters

Flex Power Modules' PKB4216C is a 200 W DC/DC converter in an industry standard eighth-brick footprint that has been designed for powering radio-frequency power amplifiers (RFPA).

Delivering up to 200 W at an output current up to 6.67 A, the PKB4216C is also ideal for powering RFPA applications that use semiconductor technologies such as laterally diffused metal oxide semiconductors (LDMOS).

The PKB4216C module offers unique design flexibility with its ultra-wide adjustable output voltage from 15 V to 33 V. This makes it possible to power a wide range of power transistors and reduce voltages when the RF power amplifier goes into sleep mode, thereby decreasing power consumption.

In addition to powering RFPA applications, the output voltage range meets specifications defined by the Antenna Interface Standards Group (AISG), which mandates a 10 V to 30 V input voltage range to power active RF antennas. The module’s voltage range also covers 24 V and 28 V, making it suitable for its use in industrial applications interconnected to ICT equipment that requires either a sub-24 V or 28 V supply from the mains rectifier.

A key feature of the PKB4216C series is that it has been designed for deployment in environments where only natural convection will be available. The module’s mechanical design has been optimized to minimize the thermal resistance between the power dissipating components and the cold-wall conduction-cooling element, thereby delivering outstanding thermal performance for applications with limited airflow, such as integrated antennas.

This device is available in an industry-standard eighth-brick footprint with dimensions of 2.3 inches x 0.89 inches and a low-profile height of just 0.34 inches (58.4 mm x 22.7 mm x 8.6 mm). The module delivers 95% typical efficiency at 30 V up to full load, guaranteeing low power dissipation and reduced energy consumption. Operating over a 36 V to 75 V input range, the PKB4216C series meets requirements for normal input-voltage ranges in 48 V_DC and 60 V_DC systems.

Offering a mean time before failure (MTBF) of 3.53 million hours, the PKB4216C meets safety requirements according to IEC/EN/UL 60950-1 and offers input/output isolation of 1500 V_DC. The module also includes many protection features, including output overvoltage protection (OVP), input undervoltage shutdown, overtemperature protection (OTP), output short-circuit protection, and pre-bias start-up capability.

Applications

• Radio frequency power amplifiers, any application requiring a very wide V_OUT adjust level