Plug-In Power Module works with AMD Opteron processors.

Press Release Summary:




Featuring installed height of 1.25 in., VRM64-80-12-U is compliant with AMD64(TM) processor specification and uses multi-phase buck conversion topology for efficiencies to 84%. Non-isolated, POL dc/dc converter offers continuous output current capability of 80 A and accommodates load transients to 100 A/µs. Featuring 4.2 MHz switching frequency and SMBus digital interface, unit can generate 0.8-1.55 Vdc output voltage, programmable in 25 mV steps.



Original Press Release:



Artesyn Launches Compact Plug-In Power Module for AMD 64-Bit Opteron(TM) Processors



Advanced multi-phase conversion topology: 84% efficient and up to 80A continuous output

Ultra low profile module is ideal fit for latest 1U high rack-mounting servers & routers

FRAMINGHAM, Mass., April 25, 2005 - Artesyn Technologies (Nasdaq:ATSN) has launched a new plug-in processor power module for use with AMD's high performance 64-bit Opteron(TM) server processors. Fully compliant with the latest AMD64(TM) processor specification, the new VRM64-80-12-U module has a continuous output current capability of 80A and accommodates fast load transients of up to 100A/µs.

The VRM64-80-12-U is an application optimized non-isolated point-of-load (POL) DC/DC converter which uses highly integrated packaging techniques to create a high current, fast response voltage source with an ultra low profile. The module plugs vertically into a standard board mounted power connector and has a very low installed height of just 1.25in, making it ideal for use in 1U high rack-mounting equipment, such as the latest enterprise servers and routers.

The converter uses an advanced multi-phase buck conversion topology with interleaving to achieve a high equivalent switching frequency of 4.2MHz: this yields a typical conversion efficiency of 84% when delivering 60A at 1.5V, combined with a 100A/µs transient response capability. The topology also helps minimize component count, resulting in lower build costs and an exceptionally compact form factor. The module has a footprint of just 3.68 x 0.75 inches - including a fully integrated heatsink - and is a cost-effective, space-saving alternative to embedded voltage regulators on densely packed boards.

Operating from a nominal 12VDC (10.8 to 13.2V) input, the VRM64-80-12-U can generate any output voltage in the range 0.8 to 1.55VDC. The voltage is programmable in 25mV steps, defined by standard 5-bit VID (voltage identification) codes, and can be set dynamically, enabling processors to automatically scale their operating frequency and supply voltage to suit the prevailing temperature, thus maximizing performance and reliability.

VRM64-80-12-U converters have no minimum load requirement and exhibit true monotonic turn-on and turn-off characteristics, with no overshoot or undershoot. They are based on an open-frame, single board construction to minimize cost and weight, and employ gold-plated edge connector pads with large surface area power and return contacts to insure high integrity, low inductance connections. The converters also provide remote sense facilities for improved load regulation, together with a remote on/off input and 'module present' and 'power good' output signals.

A further advanced feature of VRM64-80-12-U converters is that they have a built-in SMBus digital interface, facilitating remote control and monitoring of a variety of voltage regulator functions. Up to four converters can be assigned unique addresses, enabling them to be shut down individually, or to have their VID codes temporarily overridden for voltage margining purposes. A wide variety of performance-related data can be retrieved from the converter for monitoring purposes, including average and maximum output current, and the status of various input/output voltage conditions. The SMBus can also be used to retrieve a temperature reading from the converter's master controller chip, which provides a good indication of the system's ambient temperature.

The VRM64-80-12-U converter has an ambient operating range of 0 to +60°C, with derating, and is primarily intended for environments that use forced-air cooling. It is fully protected against output short-circuit conditions and at 40°C and full load has a calculated MTBF of more than 2 million hours (in accordance with Telcordia SR-332).

Artesyn's VRM64-80-12-U processor power POL converters are available for immediate delivery. In quantities of 1000, unit prices are US$41.25. Standard lead-time is stock to 8-12 weeks. To obtain further information about Artesyn's new VRM64-80-12-U converter, please visit: http://artesyn.com/powergroup/new_vrm_launch.htm

Opteron(TM) and AMD64(TM) are registered trademarks of Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.

About Artesyn Technologies, Inc.

Artesyn Technologies, Inc., headquartered in Boca Raton, FL., is a world leader in the design, manufacture and sale of power conversion and embedded board solutions for infrastructure applications in server and storage, wireless and telecommunications systems. Our products are used in middle to high-end servers, data storage devices, routers, hubs, high-speed modems, RF amplification systems, base station controllers and transceivers. The Company has a global sales reach with design and manufacturing facilities in Asia, Europe and North America. Artesyn is a public company whose common stock is traded on the Nasdaq stock market under the symbol ATSN. For more information, please visit the Company's web site at artesyn.com.

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