Power electronics in the minicomputer industry

An overview of modern minicomputer power systems is presented. Requirements placed on the power systems by computer loads, power source characteristics, and product market forces are described. A review of the genesis of switching power converter technologies in the minicomputer industry is presented. Based on power and packaging considerations, four distinct types of computers are identified: laptop computers, workstations, rack-mount systems, and superminicomputers. The attributes of each of these types, as they relate to power system requirements, are described, and the power system architectures and technologies which meet these requirements are presented. The basic technologies which are currently being explored as vehicles for meeting new performance goals and product requirements are discussed.<
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