Wide-input-range, high power density dc-dc converters optimized for railway traction, rolling stock apps

XP Power has introduced two series of wide input range, cost-effective, high-power density dc-dc converters for railway traction and rolling stock applications.

The dc-dc converters’ wide input ranges reduce inventory requirements and enable them to be used across a wide range of applications. The 20W rated RDE20 series feature a 4:1 input range covering 24, 37.5 & 48VDC nominal on the 13-70VDC input versions and 72 & 110VDC nominal on the 42-176VDC versions. The 25W rated RDF25 series converters boast an ultra-wide 10:1 input range of 16-160VDC covering all nominal inputs from 24VDC to 110VDC with one device.

Certified to EN50155 and EN50121-3-2, the converters carry the all-important safety approvals and EMC requirements for railway applications. Further, designed to EN45545-2 they meet the relevant fire protection standards. Using a small number of external filtering components, these XP Power devices offer a very high-power density compared to other products that meet these industry standards. This high-power density makes them eminently suitable for space-constrained applications, particularly the RDE20 that boasts a tiny 1 inch x 1 inch footprint package size.

The converters high efficiency means a reduced requirement for cooling, and their remote on/off facility enables simple, reduced power consumption in the off condition. Providing protection for the device and the host equipment, the RDE20 and RDF25 converters offer output short circuit, overload and overvoltage protection, while their 3kV input/output isolation safely isolates equipment from the supply. Both series operate in an ambient temperature range of -40 to +100 degrees C, and provide full power output at +55 degrees C.

Specific train borne applications in traction and rolling stock include door control, safety monitors, communication systems, video surveillance, access and ticketing machines, drive controls, power controls, information systems, lighting, passenger device-charging USB ports, HVAC systems, sanitation control, infotainment, system monitoring and telemetry. Their construction also makes them suitable for rugged environment applications.

Factors driving the demand for this type of device are the increased demand for on-board electronics systems to provide control, safety, security and comfort for passengers when travelling on public transport.

The series is available from Allied Electronics, Digi-Key, element14, Farnell, Newark, RS Components, approved regional distributors, or direct from XP Power and come with a 3-year warranty.