System optimization of a high power density non-isolated intermediate bus converter for 48 V server applications

With the power architecture transition from a 12 V to 48 V rack in modern data centers there is an increased interest in improving 48 V power conversion efficiency and power density. In this paper, we will analyze system optimization for a 48 V to 12 V non-isolated, fully regulated, intermediate bus converter (IBC) to maximize efficiency and power density. The final experimental prototype, a fully regulated, digitally controlled, 720 W, five phase, GaN transistor based 48 V to 12 V buck IBC demonstrates exceptional efficiency and power density, respectively exceeding 95% and 1000 W/in
³
.