Duo link up to develop high-density DC/DC power converter

Using GaN solves space constraint challenges typical in electric mobility systems by providing more power in smaller form factors.

The GaN converter is one-third smaller and 50% lighter than standard converters and has an overall efficiency of above 95%. 

“Creating a more sustainable world through e-mobility is at the heart of our mission and leveraging technologies like GaN are vital in accelerating this move,” said Mikel Parel, CEO of EPowerlabs, “This is demonstrated by our GaN Systems-based converter, which reduces power losses by more than 50% compared to silicon-based designs in the market and is one-third the size of legacy converters."

With an input voltage range of 24-60VDC and rated at up to 1kW continuous power with an overall efficiency above 95%, this converter offers a reliable and efficient solution for electric mopeds and scooters, EV systems and vehicles, and numerous transportation and robotics applications. Highlights:

• High Efficiency: Efficiency is 97.5% at full load, which is a 4% improvement from similar types of converters currently available in the market.
• High Power Density: Power density is 28W/in³ compared to 10W/in³ in converters using other topologies and switches.
• Smaller Weight: The design without the case weighs only 345g, and an air-cooled DC/DC of the same power weighs around 750g.

EPowerlabs’ GaN-based DC/DC converter uses GaN Systems 100V E-mode transistors (GS661008P), which leverage high-performance GaNPX embedded packaging and the high current, voltage breakdown, and switching frequency of GaN.

This combination allows high power, low loss performance, and thermal efficiencies in smaller, lighter power systems. 

“It’s wonderful to see customers like EPowerlabs using our GaN transistors to make vast power system improvements within the e-mobility space. These changes all play a part towards the goal of using less energy and creating a more sustainable future,” said Jim Witham, CEO of GaN Systems.