'Smallest' AC/DC switcher loads 212W

XP Power has unveiled a new 212W, single output AC/DC switcher—the EMA212—touted to be the world's smallest such product. Designed for communications applications, the company said the device was designed to meet the needs of networking equipment, VoIP systems, wireless LANs, servers, storage area networks and post-production broadcast equipment.

Designers of communications applications demand higher power from AC/DC units in industry-standard 1U formats as processing power and functionality grows within tight space constraints. XP said its new product is the first AC/DC switcher to deliver over 200W across the full universal AC input range from an industry-standard 3-by-5 inch footprint. It is 1.34 inches high and achieves 10.55W per cubic inch of power density without compromising performance or functionality, the company added.

Promising over 90 percent efficiency at full load, the new device needs only 12 CFM air-flow for full power operation at up to 50°C ambient and will operate at up to 70°C ambient with de-rating, eliminating the need for a wind tunnel within the mechanical design of the end equipment, XP said. The main output is 12- or 48VDC but each power supply also has a 5V, 100mA standby output and a 12V, 1A output for powering a fan. The unit features a complete signal set including AC fail/DC OK, active PFC, remote on/off and active current sharing, said the company.

XP said a series of proven power supply designs were brought together to create the EMA212. Overcurrent, overvoltage and short circuit protection are all built into the device and it meets all major international specifications for safety and EMC performance.

The EMA212 is sampling with production quantities available starting September 2006. Units are priced at $82 each for 1,000 pieces.