Power
Voltage stability: High-density server settings require stable voltages despite high di/dt scenarios and step-load changes. Noise and interference control: With the increase in switching frequencies, mitigating electromagnetic interference has become very important. Advanced cooling solutions: As power density increases, traditional cooling methods become inadequate, prompting the need for innovative thermal management techniques.
Innovations in intermediate bus architecture (IBA)
The implementation of intermediate bus architecture (IBA) has become a cornerstone in modern data centre power design. IBA enables efficient energy conversion from higher to lower voltages, fundamental for supporting the latest high- performance processors.
For example, the BMR491 series [https://
flexpowermodules.com/products/bmr491] is a fully regulated quarter brick from Flex Power Modules which exemplifies advanced DC/DC conversion technology. It has the capability to deliver up to 1,300W power while maintaining strict safety standards through high-voltage isolation. As data centres evolve away from reliance on battery backups, the integration of non-isolated, board-mounted DC/ DC converters has accelerated. These converters enable high power output without the need for external isolation in the same quarter brick format, thereby optimising both space and efficiency. For example, the BMR351 [https://
flexpowermodules.com/products/bmr351] delivers up to 1,600W of continuous power and peak power of 2,320W with an input voltage range of 40-60V, suitable for the 48V/54V applications found in data centres and a fully regulated output of 12V nominal makes it ideal to power downstream Point of Load (PoL) converters
and integrated power stages such as the BMR510, along with powering circuitry that needs a tightly regulated output.
Unregulated IBC adaptations In the fast-paced environment of data centres, flexibility in voltage regulation is also paramount. Unregulated DC/ DC converters provide this flexibility by allowing for conversion of input voltages to the necessary output voltages based on a ratiometric conversion. For instance, converting a 48V input with a ratio of 4:1 to a range of 10-15V output efficiently supports varied operational requirements without the need for complex regulation mechanisms.
The shift towards compact power solutions such as the BMR313 intermediate bus converter (IBC) [http://www.
flexpowermodules.com/products/bmr313], with a 4:1 input to output ratio, which delivers substantial power (1kW of continuous power and 3kW of peak power) in an ultra-small footprint, highlights an industry trend towards miniaturisation to maximise efficient use of on-board surface space. These advanced compact converters facilitate higher power outputs from significantly reduced sizes, enabling more power-dense configurations that are particularly advantageous in data centres where space is at a premium. The BMR313 series is an example of how current IBC technologies allow for the powering of additional system components or the paralleling of multiple VRM converters to support a larger single load. To accommodate the increased power output and associated heat generation, more advanced cooling solutions than standard forced air cooling can be necessary. Liquid cooling technologies, particularly Direct-to-Chip cooling – where the cooling fluid is delivered directly to the load via heatsinks with built-in piping – are becoming more prevalent to maintain system performance and reliability.
Figure 3: An arrangement with 4:1 IBC can yield 86.75 per cent efficiency excluding connection resistance with a load of 360A at 0.8V supplied by multiple paralleled VRMs
Figure 4: ‘Vertical power delivery’ for a processor
Vertical power delivery (VPD) systems
The optimisation of component layout plays a critical role in enhancing the efficiency of power systems. Vertical power delivery (VPD) represents a significant advancement in this area by typically arranging power components vertically beneath the load. This alignment minimises connection lengths and optimises thermal management through more efficient heat dissipation and reduced electromagnetic interference.
The challenges of component placement and cooling Effective placement of components is crucial for optimising the thermal and
electrical performance of data centres. Traditional horizontal layouts can impede cooling and restrict access to essential components. VPD systems overcome these challenges by ensuring that Voltage regulator modules (VRMs) are strategically positioned to facilitate optimal cooling and accessibility.
Conclusion
As data centres continue to grow both in size and functional complexity, the demand for innovative power management solutions becomes increasingly critical. These solutions are required to not only address the immediate operational requirements but also anticipate future needs and scalability. Adopting a holistic approach to power system design to incorporate advanced architectures like intermediate bus architecture and innovative practices such as VPD, will be the key to ensuring that data centres can meet the high-efficiency thresholds required in today’s digital landscape. Additionally, Flex Power Designer software (available for free from www.
flexpowerdesigner.com), remains a vital tool in this process, offering ways to test and streamline design processes and enhance operational efficiency.
https://flexpowermodules.com/
www.cieonline.co.uk Components in Electronics June 2024 17
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