250-W Power Supplies Target Distributed Power Systems

Aug 2, 2005 10:31 PM

Artesyn Technologies has introduced a new series of compact 250-W ac-dc power supplies that are ideal front-end conversion solutions for systems with distributed power architectures. The new NLP250 Series power supplies provide a choice of 12-V, 24-V or 48-V outputs to simplify system integration, backed by extensive control and monitoring features to satisfy a variety of dc supply requirements. In addition to the main output channel, each power supply also provides an auxiliary “always-on” 5-V output for applications that require standby operation, as well as a 12-V output for powering fans.

The 12-V and 24-V models also are available with full medical approvals for applications such as patient monitoring systems and other portable equipment used in medical wards and surgical operating theaters. The power supplies employ a rugged U-channel construction, combined with highly integrated layout and packaging techniques, to realize a small form factor, high functionality unit capable of delivering high levels of useable power.

Measuring just 4-in. × 7-in. with a profile of only 1.5 in., the supplies have a power density of 6.0 W/in³. The main output channel can deliver up to 175 W continuously under free air convection conditions, rising to 250 W with 200 LFM forced air cooling. The power supplies accommodate a wide ambient operating temperature range of 0°C to 70°C, maintaining full rated output up to 50°C.

All NLP250 Series power supplies feature a universal input that accepts any voltage in the range 85 Vac to 264 Vac at any frequency from 47 Hz to 63 Hz. Active power factor correction minimizes input harmonic current distortion and ensures compliance with the international EN61000-3-2 standard. The power supplies maximize conversion efficiency, typically achieving 84% at full load with a 115-Vac input, and 86% with a 230-Vac input.

NLP250 series 12-V, 24-V and 48-V power supplies provide maximum main channel output currents of 21 A, 10.5 A and 5.25 A, respectively. Active “democratic” current sharing, enabling multiple units to be connected in parallel for higher current applications, is available on select models. These models also incorporate internal OR-ing diodes fitted to the main output, for fault-tolerant and N+1 redundancy applications. All NLP250 series power supplies have a high surge current capability—they can deliver up to 130% of their rated steady state current for 500 ms—enabling them to start up into capacitive loads or to power electromechanical devices. Pricing starts at $127 for the ITE/industrial models and $140 for the medical models, in quantities of 250.

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