VI-252-CV Vicor 150W 15V DC-DC Converter Module

Content last revised on November 29, 2025

Vicor VI-252-CV: A 150W, 15V Output DC-DC Converter Engineered for High-Efficiency Power Conversion

The VI-252-CV is a high-density, isolated DC-DC converter from Vicor's VI-200 family, engineered to deliver exceptional efficiency and power density in a rugged full-brick package. With key specifications of 100V-200V DC Input, a regulated 15V / 10A Output, and up to 90% Efficiency, this module is built on a high-frequency Zero-Current-Switching topology. This advanced design significantly reduces thermal management complexity and minimizes electromagnetic interference, simplifying system compliance. It is an ideal solution for engineers seeking a high-efficiency 150V input DC-DC converter that provides a stable, low-noise output for sensitive electronics.

Application Scenarios & Value

Delivering Robust and Quiet Power in Demanding System Environments

For space-constrained industrial control systems requiring a robust and efficient 15V rail from a fluctuating 150V nominal bus, the VI-252-CV offers a definitive performance advantage. Consider the challenge of designing the power stage for Automated Test Equipment (ATE). These systems demand a clean, stable 15V supply for sensitive analog measurement circuits, but the power source is often a nominal 150V DC bus prone to significant voltage variations. A conventional converter might struggle, generating excess heat and electrical noise that could degrade test accuracy. The VI-252-CV, with its wide 100V to 200V input range, reliably handles these bus fluctuations.

Its primary value is rooted in the Zero-Current-Switching (ZCS) architecture, which drastically reduces switching noise—a critical factor for maintaining the signal integrity required in ATE and telecommunications infrastructure. The module's ability to deliver 150W of power from a standard full-brick package provides ample current for multiple system boards without complicating the thermal layout or chassis design, making it a cornerstone for building reliable Distributed Power Architectures (DPA).

Technical Deep Dive

A Closer Look at Zero-Current-Switching for Lower Noise and Higher Efficiency

The core of the VI-252-CV's performance lies in its use of a high-frequency Zero-Current-Switching (ZCS) resonant topology. Unlike traditional hard-switched converters that force a switch to turn off while significant current is flowing, ZCS intelligently times the switching event to occur precisely when the current naturally drops to zero. To draw an analogy, it's like pushing a child on a swing: applying a gentle push just as the swing momentarily stops at its highest point requires minimal effort and creates a smooth arc. Hard-switching, in contrast, is like trying to abruptly reverse the swing's direction mid-motion—an action that demands significant force and creates a jarring, inefficient jolt.

This "jolt" in a power converter manifests as high-frequency electrical noise and substantial switching losses, which generate heat. By virtually eliminating these switching losses, the ZCS architecture enables the VI-252-CV to achieve its impressive 90% efficiency. For system designers, this directly translates into a reduced need for bulky heatsinks and less complex filtering, ultimately saving space and cost while improving overall system reliability through lower operating temperatures. This level of efficiency allows for a power density that is difficult to achieve with conventional designs, enabling 150W of output power within the confines of a standard full-brick module.

Key Parameter Overview

Highlighting the Specifications for System Integration

The technical specifications of the VI-252-CV are tailored for high-reliability applications where performance and power density are critical. The following table highlights the key parameters that enable its integration into demanding designs.

Download the VI-252-CV datasheet for detailed specifications and performance curves.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Engineering Inquiries for the VI-252-CV

How does the Zero-Current-Switching (ZCS) in the VI-252-CV benefit my design compared to a standard hard-switched converter?
ZCS drastically reduces switching losses, which leads to higher efficiency (up to 90%), less waste heat, and significantly lower conducted and radiated EMI. This simplifies thermal management and helps achieve EMC compliance with less filtering, saving board space and component cost.

What is the practical implication of the module's 100V-200V input range for system robustness?
This wide input range allows the module to maintain a stable 15V output even when the input source fluctuates, which is common in battery-powered systems or industrial environments with unstable power grids. It ensures continuous, reliable operation without the need for extensive upstream power conditioning.

Is the VI-252-CV suitable for creating higher-power arrays?
Yes, the VI-200 series, including the VI-252-CV, is designed for scalability. It can be paralleled with compatible booster modules (VI-Bxx series) to create synchronous arrays capable of delivering kilowatts of power, allowing for a flexible and modular power system design.

How does the VI-252-CV's full-brick package assist with thermal management?
The industry-standard full-brick package provides a large, flat baseplate with a well-defined thermal path. This allows for straightforward and effective mounting to a heatsink or chassis, ensuring efficient heat dissipation away from the internal components and enhancing long-term operational reliability.

For engineers and procurement managers seeking to enhance power system efficiency and density, the Vicor VI-252-CV presents a strategic component choice. Its proven ZCS technology offers a clear path to developing more compact, reliable, and electromagnetically quiet end-products, providing a distinct competitive advantage in sophisticated electronic systems.