VICOR 4623 User manual

UG:017 vicorpower.com Applications Engineering: 800 927.9474 Page 1
Introduction
The Analog Control 3623 and 4623 ChiP DCM evaluation boards described in this document are
designed to be used with the DCM family of isolated, DC-DC converters. The 3623 DCM board is used
for the analog control, low input voltage 3623 ChiP products, while the 4623 DCM board is used for
the analog control, high input voltage (offline) 4623 ChiP products.
The DCM evaluation board can be configured for various enabling and fault monitoring schemes,
as well as to exercise various modes of trimming, depending on the application requirements. The
evaluation board can be used to evaluate DCMs in either a stand-alone configuration, or as an
array of modules.
Enable options:
1. On-board mechanical switch (default)
2. External control
Trim options:
1. Fixed trim operation (default): the TR pin is permitted to float at initial startup.
The DCM disables output trimming and the output trim is programmed to the nominal rated VOUT.
2. Variable trim operation, on-board variable resistor: The trim pin voltage is ratiometric,
with a rheostat working against a pull-up resistor inside the DCM to VCC.
3. Variable trim operation, off-board control: The trim pin voltage is controlled via external
programming control, which is referenced to the –IN of each specific DCM in the system.
Fault monitor options:
1. On-board LED: the FT pin drives a visible LED for visual feedback on fault status.
2. On-board optocoupler: the FT pin drives an on-board optocoupler to bring
fault status across the primary-secondary isolation boundary.
Analog Control 3623 and 4623 ChiP DCMs
Evaluation Board
USER GUIDE | UG:017
Arthur Russell
VI Chip®Applications Engineering
October 2014
Contents Page
Introduction 1
Contents 3
Features 3
Board Description 4
General Components 4
Test Points Description 6
Schematic, Assembly Drawing
and Bill of Materials 7
Recommended Test
Equipment 14
Basic Connections 14
Board Operation Details 14
Trim Control 15
Fault Monitoring 15
Chassis Ground 16
Paralleling 16

UG:017 vicorpower.com Applications Engineering: 800 927.9474 Page 2
IMPORTANT NOTICE:
Hazardous voltages are present on the DCM Evaluation Board under power.
PERSONAL CONTACT WITH LINE VOLTAGE MAY RESULT IN SEVERE INJURY, DISABILITY, OR
DEATH. IMPROPER OR UNSAFE HANDLING OF THIS BOARD MAY RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY
OR DEATH.
Read the precautions below entirely BEFORE using the DCM Evaluation Board. Do not operate the
evaluation board unless you have the appropriate safety precautions in place on your bench to
guarantee safety.
The list below is not comprehensive and is not a substitute for common sense and
good practice.
 During operation, the power devices and surrounding structures can be operated
safely at high temperatures.
 Remove power and use caution when connecting and disconnecting test probes
and interface lines to avoid inadvertent short circuits and contact with hot surfaces.
 Never use a jumper in place of the fuse.
 When testing electronic products always use approved safety glasses. Follow good
laboratory practice and procedures.
 Avoid creating ground loops when making measurements of the isolated input
or output voltage.
 Care should be taken to protect the user from accidental contact when
under power.
 Care should be taken to avoid reversing polarities if connecting to the opposite
(solder) side of the board.
 The product evaluation boards described in this document are designed for
general laboratory evaluation, and are not suitable for installation in
end user equipment.
 Refer to the specific DCM module data sheet for electrical, thermal, and mechanical
product details

UG:017 vicorpower.com Applications Engineering: 800 927.9474 Page 3
These boards provide a convenient way to evaluate/demonstrate the performance of Vicor’s DCM
products. Kelvin connections are provided for accurate voltage measurements on power nodes. Sockets
are provided to permit quick installation and changing of bulk filtering capacitors. The evaluation board
also provides lugs for input/output connections, test points and sockets for easy connection to standard
test-equipment, and a high performance air cooled heatsink assembly.
Contents
The evaluation board arrives with the following contents:
 1 x DCM evaluation board
 1 x top and belly heatsink assembly (pre-installed)
 1 x hardware kit
Features
The DCM evaluation board has the following features:
1. Input and output lugs for source and load connections
2. Input fuse (appropriately rated)
3. Basic input filtering, including sockets to add through-hole input aluminum-electrolytic capacitors
for additional source decoupling
Note: The filtering used in the eval board is for demonstration purposes only and might not be the optimal
solution for all applications. For optimal filter design for parallel array application, consult the datasheet of the
DCM in use and the online filter design tool at:
http://app2.vicorpower.com/filterDesign/intiFilter.do
4. Basic output filtering, including sockets to add through-hole output
aluminum-electrolytic capacitors
5. Toggle switch for enabling and disabling the DCM via the ENABLE pin
6. Trim control selection
a. Using potentiometer
b. Using external voltage source
c. Open, to disable trimming and latch the model nominal trim condition
7. Provisions to replace input and output differential mode inductors with wire loops,
for oscilloscope/shunt based current measurements
8. Oscilloscope probe jack for accurate, high frequency output voltage measurements
9. Dual paralleling connectors for ENABLE, TRIM, FAULT and SGND signal connections, for daisy
chaining control to other DCM evaluation boards in an array
10. Kelvin voltage test points for all power pins
11. Top and bottom heatsink assembly for the DCM

UG:017 vicorpower.com Applications Engineering: 800 927.9474 Page 4
Board Description
The following section provides a detailed description of the evaluation board components, test points
and sockets.
General Components
1. DCM (PS01)
2. Input lugs: Sized for #10 hardware. Use these for making connection to the input source.
This board does not contain reverse polarity protection. Check for proper polarity before
applying the power.
3. Input fuse (F01 & F02): Appropriately rated for the DCM model on the board.
4. Input filter: Ceramic input capacitors (C15-C22), filtering inductor (L01) and damping resistor
(R08) provide input filtering. Sockets (H01-H02, H03-H04) can be used for easy installation of
aluminum-electrolytic input capacitors. The 3623 board also adds H09-H10 for additional
input bypassing.
5. Enable / Disable switch (SW01): When actuator is in top position towards “ON” text on the board,
the ENABLE pin will be open and the DCM will be enabled. When actuator is in bottom position
towards “OFF” text on the board, the ENABLE pin will be connected to SGND and the DCM will be
disabled. When switch SW01 is ON, an external voltage source can control the ENABLE state.
6. Header-jumper for trim control (J09): Provides the option to enable the trim function to set the
DCM programmed trim value via either the on board trim rheostat or an external voltage source:
a. Using potentiometer (R26)
b. Using external voltage source.
7. Output lugs: Sized for #10 hardware. Use these lugs to connect the output directly to the load.
8. Output oscilloscope probe Jack (J01): Used for making accurate scope measurements of the output
voltage (e.g. ripple). The jack is directly compatible with many common passive voltage probes
models. Remove the grounding lead and insulating barrel of the probe and insert the probe tip and
barrel directly into the jack, ensuring that the probe tip seats in the center socket of the jack. To
avoid the risk of an inadvertent short circuit, do not attempt to install while power is applied.
9. Output filter: Output capacitor (C201), filtering inductor (L02) and damping resistors (R16-R17), and
ceramic output capacitors (C02-C05) provide output filtering. Sockets H05-H06, and H03-H04 can
be used for easy installation of aluminum-electrolytic output capacitors.
10. High side current sense wire loops: By depopulating the associated inductor and damping resistors,
all input or output currents can be passed through a wire loop or use with an oscilloscope current
probe. The wire loop is installed at the large pair of plated through-holes near the applicable
inductor location.
11. Dual paralleling wire-to-board connectors (J02 and J03): Used for bussing control signals and their
reference (ENABLE, SHARE, FAULT, and SGND) across board assemblies during parallel operation.
The connector style provides simple “strip and insert” use with 18 – 24 AWG solid wires. Once
inserted, a spring loaded barb retains each wire with no need for soldering. To release the wire,
insert a thin bladed tool (AVX 06-9276-7001-01-000 or similar) into the slot above each
wire entry point.

UG:017 vicorpower.com Applications Engineering: 800 927.9474 Page 5
Figure 1
3623 DCM evaluation
board photo, top side
Figure 2
4623 DCM evaluation
board photo, top side

UG:017 vicorpower.com Applications Engineering: 800 927.9474 Page 6
Test Points Description
Test nodes are labeled and include a SMT test point for attaching miniature probes, clips or hooks.
Table 1
Primary referred
test point descriptions
Table 2
Secondary referred
test point descriptions
Name Description
+IN_FUSED,
+IN_FILT,
–IN
Provide measurement testpoints for the input voltage to the board in various locations, rela-
tive to the –IN board lug. +IN_FUSED is taken after input fusing, +IN_FILT is taken after the
input filtering network.
+IN_DCM,
–IN_DCM
Provide Kelvin connection to input pins of the DCM. Use these test points for measuring the
input voltage at the module, excluding errors due to finite connection resistance leading up
to the module.
PRI_SG Testpoint for Signal Ground on the primary/input side of the isolation boundary. This is the
reference for all primary side control circuitry and all control pins of the DCM.
EXT_EN Testpoint to drive the ENABLE signal (relative to PRI_SG) using an external source.
PRI_EN Testpoint to measure the ENABLE signal (relative to PRI_SG).
EXT_TR Testpoint to drive the TRIM signal (relative to PRI_SG) using an external source.
PRI_TR Testpoint to measure the TRIM signal (relative to PRI_SG).
PRI_FT Testpoint to measure the FAULT signal (relative to PRI_SG).
Name Description
+OUT_DCM,
–OUT_DCM
Output voltage test points provide Kelvin connection to output pin group of the DCM. Use
these test points for measuring the output voltage at the module, excluding voltage errors
due to finite connection resistance and the module output current.
+OUT_DCM_SHNT,
+OUT,
–OUT
Provides measurement testpoints for the output voltage in various locations, relative to the
–OUT board lug. +OUT_DCM_SHNT is taken before the output filtering, and +OUT is taken
at the +OUT board lug.
SEC_SG Testpoints for the +5V bias supply return, and for measuring the FT_SEC fault monitor out-
put.
FT_SEC Testpoint to measure the FAULT signal relative to SEC_SG once it has passed through the
opto-coupler, if used. Bias power must be supplied to +5V for voltage output to appear here.
+5 V Testpoint to provide a bias voltage (relative to secondary ground) for the fault opto-coupler,
if used.

UG:017 vicorpower.com Applications Engineering: 800 927.9474 Page 7
Schematic, Assembly Drawing and Bill of Materials
J104
J105
+OUT_DCM_SHNT TP1
TP106
TP107
J106 J107
-OUT
TP8
+OUT
-OUT
1206
C05
L01
+IN
1206
C04
1206
C03
1206
C02
L02
+OUT
TP4
2512
R17 2512 R16
CHASSIS-GND
-IN_DCM
+IN_DCM +OUT_DCM
1210
C07
2220 C15
1206
R08
3 1
4 2
J03
PRI_EN
PRI_FT
PRI_TR
TRIM CONTROL
0603 R09
LED-0805
D01
PRI_SG
ENABLE CONTROL
0603 R04
PRI_SG
TP104 TP103 TP102
0603
C01
PRI_SGPRI_SG
EXT_EN TP33
1210
C09
1210
C11
1210
C13
2220
C16
2220
C17
2220
C18
2220
C19
2220
C20
2220
C21
2220
C22
0603 R19
0603
R20
0603
R18
0402 R504
0402
C24
0402 R505
0402
C25
PRI_SG
29581
1612
S101
H03
TP101
29581
1612
S102
29581
1612
S103
29581
1612
S104
+OUT_DCM -OUT_DCM
3 1
4 2
J02
1 2 5
43 6
M02
0603
R21
PRI_SG
0603 R22
0603 R23
SEC_SG
FT_SEC TP29
1206
FB1
0603 R02
0603
R05
CHASSIS_GND
J108
0603 R32
+IN_DCM TP5
-IN_DCM TP7
+OUT_DCM
TP6
-OUT_DCM
TP9
PRI_SG
0603 R01
EXT_TRIM TP28
PARALLELING CONNECTORS
+IN_FUSED TP2 -IN TP27
-IN
+IN_FILT
TP100
+IN_DCM
-IN_DCM
+IN_FILT TP3
AD DA CL
PRI_EN
PRI_FT
PRI_TR
0402
C23
0402
R503
0603 R118
PRI_SER_OUT
0603 R119
0603
R120
PRI_SER_IN
PRI_PWM
PRI_FT TP32
PRI_TR TP30
PRI_EN TP31 -OUT_DCM
+OUT_DCM_SHNT
PRI_TR
PRI_EN
PRI_FT
PRI_SG
PRI_SG TP34
0603 R24
+5V
FAULT INDICATOR
0603 R27
H04
H05
H06
H09
H10
Trim_Pot External_Trim
ON/External_Ctrl
OFF
3 1
4 2
J09
3 1
4 2
J10
H08
H07
+OUT
-IN +IN
-OUT
FT EN TR
PRIMARY SECONDARY
ISOLATION BOUNDRY
3623
PS01
GND HS02
GND
HS01
F01
Note: Scope Jack
H01 H02
C201
11
3
3
22
RES TRIM POT 500K OHM 1/2W 10% TH
R26
2010
R25
J01
2
3 1
SW01
One plated through-hole on each side of L02 for
optional current loop
One plated through-hole on each side of L02 for
optional current loop
Figure 3
3623 DCM evaluation board
schematic

UG:017 vicorpower.com Applications Engineering: 800 927.9474 Page 8
Schematic, Assembly Drawing and Bill of Materials (Cont.)
J104
+IN
J105
-IN
+OUT_DCM_SHNT TP1
TP106
TP107
J106 +OUT J107 -OUT
-OUT
TP8
J01
note:ScopeJack
One plated through-hole on each side of L02 for
optional current loop
+OUT
-OUT
1
L01
+IN
1206
C02
L02
+OUT
TP4
2512
R17 2512 R16
DA
CL
+IN -IN
+OUT
-OUT
AD
PRIMARY SECONDARY
ISOLATION BOUNDRY
4623
PS01
CHASSIS-GND
-IN_DCM +IN_DCM
+OUT_DCM
GND
HS01
1210 C07
2220
C15
1206
R08
3 1
4 2
J03
PRI_EN
PRI_FT
PRI_TR
TRIM CONTROL
0603 R09
D01
PRI_SG
ENABLE CONTROL
0603 R04
PRI_SG
TP104 TP103 TP102
0603
C01
PRI_SGPRI_SG
EXT_EN TP33
1210
C08 1210 C09 1210 C10
1210
C11 1210 C12
1210
C13 1210 C14
2220
C16
2220
C17
2220
C18
2220
C19
2220
C20
2220
C21
2220
C22
C201
GND HS02
0603 R19
0603
R20
0603
R18
0402 R504
0402
C24
0402 R505
0402
C25
PRI_SG
29581
S101
TP101
29581
S102
29581
S103
29581
S104
+OUT_DCM -OUT_DCM
F01
3 1
4 2
J02
1 2 5
43 6
M02
0603
R21
PRI_SG
0603 R22
0603 R23
SEC_SG
FT_SEC TP29
1206
FB1
0603 R02
0603
R05
CHASSIS_GND
J108
0603 R32
2010 R25
+IN_DCM TP5
-IN_DCM TP7
+OUT_DCM
TP6
-OUT_DCM
TP9
11
3
3
22
R26
RES TRIM POT 500K OHM 1/2W 10% TH
PRI_SG
0603 R01
EXT_TRIM TP28
PARALLELING CONNECTORS
+IN_FUSED
TP2
-IN TP27
-IN
+IN_FILT
TP100
+IN_DCM
-IN_DCM
+IN_FILT TP3
AD DA CL
PRI_EN
PRI_FT
PRI_TR
0402
C23
0402
R503
0603 R118
0603
PRI_SER_OUT
0603 R119
0603
0603
R120
0603
PRI_SER_IN
PRI_PWM
PRI_FT TP32
PRI_TR TP30
PRI_EN TP31
-OUT_DCM
+OUT_DCM_SHNT
PRI_TR
PRI_EN
PRI_FT
PRI_SG
PRI_SG TP34
0603 R24
+5V
FAULT INDICATOR
0603 R27
2
3 1
SW01
Trim_Pot External_Trim
ON/External_Ctrl
OFF
3 1
4 2
J09
3 1
4 2
J10
F02
H05
H06
H03
1206
C03
1206
C04
1206
C05
H04
H07
H08
H01
H02
TR
EN
FT
One plated through-hole on each side of L02 for
optional current loop
Figure 4
4623 DCM evaluation board
schematic

UG:017 vicorpower.com Applications Engineering: 800 927.9474 Page 9
TOP VIEW
U201
R204
R203
R202
R201
L202
L201
J204
D202
C201
J105
J106J104
J107
C206
L203
L204
R205
R206
R207
R208
R214
R223
R224
R225
R226
Q200
Q201
R227
R228
R229
R230
S101
S102
S103
S104
J504
TP1
SW13
R243
R242
R241
R240
R124
R26
R25
R12
R11
L211
L210
TP29
TP32 TP31
TP8
TP28
TP26
TP4
H04
H02
H01
R14
R05
R02
R01
J001
U502
U501
U500
U01
TP24
TP23
TP22
TP21
TP20 TP19
TP18 TP17 TP16 TP15 TP14 TP13 TP12 TP11 TP10 TP09
TP08
TP07
TP06 TP05 TP04
TP03
TP02 TP01
SW03
SW01
R566
R565
R555
R554 R553
R551
R550
R549
R548
R547
R546 R545 R544 R543
R538 R537
R532
R531
R530
R529
R527
R526
R525
R524
R522
R521
R520
R517
R512
R510
R505
R503
R502
R56
R24
R23
R22
R21
R20
R19
R18
R17
R16
R13
R09
R08
R04
M02
L01
J03J02
H06
H05
H03
FB501
FB500
FB1
TP30
D501
D500
D01
C520
C506
C505
C504
C503
C502
C501
C500
C25
C23
C22 C21 C20 C19 C18 C17 C16 C15
C14C13C12C11 C10C09C08 C07
C05 C04 C03 C02
C01
TP25
J108
HS01
HS02
PS01
L02
SW04
R32
TP5TP7
TP6TP9
C24
H07
H08
J09J10
R27
R118
R119
R120
R504
TP2
TP3TP27
TP33
TP34
F01F02
J01
Figure 6
4623 DCM evaluation board
assembly drawing, top side
TOP VIEW
U201
R204
R203
R202
R201
L202
L201
J204
D202
C201
J105
J106J104
J107
C206
L203
L204
R205
R206
R207
R208
R214
R223
R224
R225
R226
Q200
Q201
R227
R228
R229
R230
S101
S102
S103
S104
J504
TP1
SW13
R243
R242
R241
R240
R124
R26
R25
R12
R11
L211
L210
TP29
TP32 TP31
TP8
TP28
TP26
TP4
H04
H02
H01
R14
R05
R02
R01
J001
U502
U501
U500
U01
TP24
TP23
TP22
TP21
TP20 TP19
TP18 TP17 TP16 TP15 TP14 TP13 TP12 TP11 TP10 TP09
TP08
TP07
TP06 TP05 TP04
TP03
TP02 TP01
SW03
SW01
R566
R565
R555
R554 R553
R551
R550
R549
R548
R547
R546 R545 R544 R543
R538 R537
R532
R531
R530
R529
R527
R526
R525
R524
R522
R521
R520
R517
R512
R510
R505
R503
R502
R56
R24
R23
R22
R21
R20
R19
R18
R17
R16
R13
R09
R08
R04
M02
L01
J03J02
H06
H05
H03
FB501
FB500
FB1
TP30
D501
D500
D01
C520
C506
C505
C504
C503
C502
C501
C500
C25
C23
C22 C21 C20 C19 C18 C17 C16 C15
C13
C11
C09
C07
C05 C04 C03 C02
C01
TP25
J108
HS01
HS02
PS01
L02
SW04
R32
TP5
TP7
TP6
TP9
C24
H07
H08
J09J10
R27
R118
R119
R120
R504
TP2
TP3TP27
TP33
TP34
F01
J01
H09
H10
Schematic, Assembly Drawing and Bill of Materials (Cont.)
Figure 5
3623 DCM evaluation board,
assembly drawing, top side

UG:017 vicorpower.com Applications Engineering: 800 927.9474 Page 10
Table 3
DCM evaluation board BOM,
components common
to all boards
Reference
Designator Description Manufacturer Manufacturer Part Number
Common Components
C01 CAP X7R 0.10µF 10% 16V 0603 AVX 0603YC104KAT2A
C02 – C05 CAP X7S 4.7µF 10% 100V 1206 AVX 12061Z475KAT2A
C07 – C14 Board specific - See table 4 BOMs
C15 – C22 Board specific - See table 4 BOMs
C201 Design specific - See table 5 BOMs
D01 LED RED 0805 ROHM SML-211UTT86
FB1 FERRITE BEAD 33 OHM 6A 1206 MURATA BLM31PG330SN1L
F01, F02 Design specific - See table 5 BOMs
HS01 – HS02 Board specific - See table 4 BOMs
J02 – J03 CONN 4 POS WIRE TO BOARD AVX 009276004021106
J01 PCB TP ADAPTER, 3.5mm PROBE TESTPATH 131-5031-00
L01 Board specific - See table 4 BOMs
L02 IND 0.33µH 20% 50A WURTH 744309033
M02 IC 6 PIN OPTO VISHAY CNY17-3X017T
R02, R04, R05,
R18, R19, R20 RES 0 OHM JUMPER 0603 KOA RK73Z1JTTD
PS01 Design specific - See table 5 BOMs VICOR
R08 RES 1 OHM ¼ W 5% 1206 KOA RK73B2BTTE1R0J
R16 RES 250 mOHM 1W 2512 VISHAY WSL2512R2500FEA
R09, R21 RES 1 KOHM 1/10W 5% 0603 KOA RK73B1JTTD102J
R22, R32 RES 49.9 KOHM 1/10W 1% 0603 KOA RK73H1JTTD4992F
R23 RES 4.99 KOHM 1/1W 0.1% 0603 THIN FILM TECH CR0603E4991B-T5
R24, R01 RES 0 OHM JUMPER 0603 KOA RK73Z1JTTD
R25 RES 0 OHM JUMPER 2010 VISHAY CRCW20100000Z0EF
R26 RES TRIM POT 500 kOHM 1/2W 10% COPAL CT-94EW504
S102 - S104 RES 0 OHM JUMPER 1612 COPPER EXCELTOOL & DIE 29581
SW01 SW TOGGLE SPDT 1 POS C&K COMPO-
NENTS GT11MSABE
JMPSOK for
J09 – J10 JUMPER SOCKET XJ8A OMRON XJ8A-0211
Schematic, Assembly Drawing and Bill of Materials (Cont.)

UG:017 vicorpower.com Applications Engineering: 800 927.9474 Page 11
Table 4a
BOM additions, components
common to all 3623 DCM
evaluation boards
Table 4b
BOM additions, components
common to all 4623 DCM
evaluation boards
Reference
Designator Description Manufacturer Manufacturer Part Number
3623 board components
C07, C09, C11,
C13 CAP X7R 4700pF 10% 2kV 1210 KEMET C1210C472KGRAC7800
C08, C10, C12,
C14 N/A (not present in design) N/A N/A
C15 – C22 CAP X7R 4.7µF 20% 100V 2220 TDK C5750X7R2A475M230KA
L01 IND 0.33µH 20% 50A WURTH 744309033
HS01 - HS02 3623 DUAL HTSNK VICOR 40526
S101 RES 0 OHM JUMPER 1612 COPPER EXCELTOOL & DIE 29581
CIN @
H01 - H02
CAP ALEL 680µF 20% 63V RADIAL
18 X 20
UNITED
CHEMI CON ELXZ630ELL681MM20S
Reference
Designator Description Manufacturer Manufacturer Part Number
4623 board components
C07 – C14 CAP X7R 4700pF 10% 2kV 1210 KEMET C1210C472KGRAC7800
C15 – C22 CAP X7T 0.47µF 10% 630V 2220 TDK C5750X7T2J474K250KC
L01 IND 1.0µH 20% 13A BOURNS SRP7030-1R0FM
HS01 - HS02 4623 DUAL HTSNK VICOR 40519
S101 BEAD 680 OHM 4A 1812 TAIYO YUDEN FBMH4532HM681-T
CIN @
H01 - H02 AP ALEL 10µ 20% 450V RAD UNITED CHEMI CON EKXG451ELL100MK20S
Schematic, Assembly Drawing and Bill of Materials: (Cont.)

UG:017 vicorpower.com Applications Engineering: 800 927.9474 Page 12
Schematic, Assembly Drawing and Bill of Materials: (Cont.)
Table 5
Example: BOM additions,
components which are
DCM model specific.
Reference
Designator Description Manufacturer Manufacturer Part Number
Evaluation board number: DCM3623E50M06A8M00
PS01 DCM - 3623 VICOR DCM3623T50M06A8M00
F01 FUSE 30A 125V AXIAL LITTELFUSE 324 030P
C201 CAP ALEL 10000µF 20% 10V RADIAL
18 x 26.5 NICHICON URS1A103MHD1TN
Evaluation board number: DCM3623E50M13C2M00
PS01 DCM - 3623 VICOR DCM3623T50M13C2M00
F01 FUSE 30A 125V AXIAL LITTELFUSE 324 030P
C201 CAP ALEL 4700µF 20% 25V RADIAL
16 x 25 NICHICON UVY1E472MHD
Evaluation board number: DCM3623E50M17C2M00
PS01 DCM - 3623 VICOR DCM3623T50M17C2M00
F02 FUSE 30A 125V AXIAL LITTELFUSE 324 030P
C201 CAP ALEL 2200µF 20% 25V RADIAL
16 x 25 NICHICON UPW1E222MHD
Evaluation board numbers: DCM3623E50M26C2M00, DCM3623E50M31C2M00
PS01 DCM - 3623 VICOR
One of
DCM3623T50M26C2M00
DCM3623T50M31C2M00
F01 FUSE 30A 125V AXIAL LITTELFUSE 324 030P
C201 CAP ALEL 1000µF 20% 50V RADIAL
18 x 20
UNITED
CHEMICON EKY-500ELL102MM20S
Evaluation board number: DCM3623E50M53C2M00
PS01 DCM - 3623 VICOR DCM3623T50M53C2M00
F01 FUSE 30A 125V AXIAL LITTELFUSE 324 030P
C201 CAP ALEL 220µF 20% 80V RADIAL
18 x 16.5 NICHICON UPJ1K221MHD6TN
Evaluation board numbers: DCM4623EC8G16F0T00, DCM4623ED2J13D0X00, DCM4623ED2H26F0X00
PS01 DCM - 4623 VICOR
One of
DCM4623TC8G16F0T00
DCM4623TD2J13D0T00
DCM4623TD2J13D0M00
DCM4623TD2H26F0T00
DCM4623TD2H26F0M00
F01 FUSE 5A 450V FAST 6.3 X 32 RADIAL COOPER
BUSSMANN BK/PCD-5-R
C201 CAP ALEL 1000µF 20% 50V RADIAL
18 x 20
UNITED
CHEMICON EKY-500ELL102MM20S

UG:017 vicorpower.com Applications Engineering: 800 927.9474 Page 13
Table 5 (Cont.)
Example: BOM additions,
components which are
DCM model specific.
Reference
Designator Description Manufacturer Manufacturer Part Number
Evaluation board numbers: DCM4623ED2H31E0X00, DCM4623ED2H53E0X00
PS01 DCM - 4623 VICOR
One of
DCM4623TD2H31E0T00
DCM4623TD2H31E0M00
DCM4623TD2H53E0T00
DCM4623T02H53E0M00
F01 FUSE 5A 450V FAST 6.3 X 32 RADIAL COOPER
BUSSMANN BK/PCD-5-R
C201 CAP ALEL 220µF 20% 80V RADIAL
18 x 16.5 NICHICON UPJ1K221MHD6TN
Schematic, Assembly Drawing and Bill of Materials: (Cont.)
General BOM rules for various DCM Evaluation Boards
 PS01: This is the Vicor DCM, whose part number is coded in the evaluation board part number.
For example, eval board DCM4623ED2K53E0M00 uses DCM4623TD2K53E0M00.
 F01: This is the input fuse. See the datas heet for the specific DCM for appropriate fuse needed to
meet listed safety agency approvals.
 C201: This is the external output capacitor for the DCM. It is an Aluminum electrolytic with value
that satisfies the DCM datasheet COUT-TRANS minimum.

UG:017 vicorpower.com Applications Engineering: 800 927.9474 Page 14
Recommended Test Equipment
The following is a list of recommended test equipment.
1. Safety glasses
2. DC power supply: Refer to the specific DCM model datasheet to ensure the supply has
sufficient power and current capability, especially at low line, to satisfy current inrush when the
DCM is started
3. Electronic load: Refer to the specific DCM model datasheet to ensure the load has sufficient power
handling and current capability for testing
4. Cooling fan
5. Digital multi-meters (DMMs)
6. Oscilloscope and probes
7. Function generator
8. Auxiliary bench voltage supply (optional, for bias of secondary side fault monitor opto-coupler)
9. Interconnect wires, cables and fastening hardware
10. Calibrated input and output shunts, appropriately rated
11. Thin bladed tool for extracting wires from paralleling connectors
(AVX 06-9276-7001-01-000 or similar)
Basic Connections
 Confirm bench equipment is powered off.
 Connect the input DC power supply positive lead to the +IN input lug of the evaluation board,
connect the input power supply negative lead to the –IN input lug of the evaluation board.
 Connect the CHASSIS_GROUND lug of the evaluation board to a safety “green wire” earth ground.
 Connect the +OUT lug of the evaluation board to the electronic load positive input, connect the
–OUT lug of the evaluation board to the electronic load negative input.
 Direct airflow from the cooling fan through the DCM heatsink fins.
 Have the latest DCM datasheet on hand for reference.
Board Operation Details
 SW01 provides control over enable.
 In the “OFF” position, the switch will connect SG the EN net, which disables the DCM.
 In the “ON” position, SG is disconnected from the EN net.
 External connection to EN is permitted using the PRI_EN testpoint. SW01 should be set to “ON” to
permit external control.
 The J02 & J03 paralleling connectors can be used to connect EN nets across different boards.
Note: to enable the DCMs in a parallel array, all boards need SW01 set to “ON” to avoid pulling the
EN node low.

UG:017 vicorpower.com Applications Engineering: 800 927.9474 Page 15
Trim Control
 Jumper block J09 configures trimming.
 With no jumpers installed, neither the trim potentiometer nor the test point for external trim con-
trol is connected to the TR net. Note that the paralleling connectors always connect to the TR net.
 With a jumper loaded across J09.1 and J09.2, the trim potentiometer R26 is
connected as a rheostat between the TR node and SG.
 With a jumper loaded across J09.3 and J09.4, the external trim test point is
connected to the TR node.
 The DCM contains an internal pull-up resistor to VCC (3.3V nominal). When VIN is applied to the DCM
it samples the TR node voltage. If it has pulled up to VCC, the DCM disables trimming as long as it
has input power, and the programmed trim condition will be nominal rated VOUT of the DCM model.
 If the TR node is not permitted to pull-up to VCC when VIN is applied, trimming is enabled for as long
as the DCM has input power.
 Note: Any load on the TR node may cause the DCM to select trim mode when VIN is applied,
including: the external trim testpoint (if selected with the jumper block), the trim potentiometer
(if selected with the jumper block), and other DCM evaluation boards attached to the
paralleling connectors.
 The trim potentiometer adds a variable resistance between the TR node and SG, from between
0Ωnominal, to the value of the potentiometer (500kΩ). This resistance range will generate TR pin
voltages which cover the entire functional range of the TR pin. Care should be taken to ensure the
programmed trim condition is within the rated trim range of the DCM in order for the DCM to meet
specifications.
 In a parallel setup using the J02 & J03 paralleling connectors, all boards besides the top one should
have the trim jumper select block at J09 open.
 In a parallel setup with multiple DCM evaluation boards, each DCM contributes another internal
pull-up resistor to a 3.3V nominal rail. With any resistive based trimming of the TR node, the resultant
trim condition will be modified by the number of DCMs which are attached and have VIN applied.
Conversely with a voltage source applied to the TR node, adding additional DCMs to the system has
minimal impact on the resultant trim condition.
Fault Monitoring
 Jumper block J10 configures how the FT node is monitored.
 With no jumpers installed, neither the visible LED nor the opto-coupler is connected to the FT net.
Note that the paralleling connectors always connect to the FT net.
 With a jumper loaded across J10.3 and J10.4, the visible LED at D01 and its bias resistor network
R09 & R32 are connected to the FT node.
 With a jumper loaded across J10.1 and J10.2, the opto-coupler at M02 and its bias resistor net-
work R21 & R22 is connected to the FT node.
 The DCM FT output is intended to be directly paralleled with the FT output of other DCMs in an array.
The FT node in an array forms a “wired-OR”, where any DCM can drive the FT node high.

UG:017 vicorpower.com Applications Engineering: 800 927.9474 Page 16
 Both the visible LED and the opco-coupler draw current from the FT node in a fault condition. The FT
pin on the DCM has limited drive-high capabilities, and so care must be taken to avoid excess loading
of the pin. To avoid overload, do not configure J10 to use both the LED and opto-coupler indicators
simultaneously. When connecting external circuitry or test equipment to the FT test point, ensure that
the maximum load on the FT node is within the DCM datasheet ratings.
 In a parallel setup using the J02 & J03 paralleling connectors, all boards besides the top one should
have the fault jumper select block at J10 open.
 When using the opto-coupler, the status of the FT node can be easily transferred to the secondary side
of the DCM(s) isolation boundary. To resolve the fault state on the secondary side, the collector side
of the opto requires a bias voltage. A 5V bench supply should be connected between the “+5V” and
“SEC_SG” testpoints. With no fault present, “FT_SEC” will be at 0V, and when a fault occurs and the
opto-coupler is active, “FT_SEC” will pull up to 5V, relative to SEC_SG.
Chassis Ground
The heatsink assembly of the DCM is connected to the CHASSIS_GND node of the board, as well as the
y-caps from each power connection of the DCM. A connection from the CHASSIS_GND lug to earth
ground is required.
Paralleling
The paralleling and sharing performance of multiple DCMs can be easily demonstrated by stacking
multiple evaluation boards and interconnecting the inputs and outputs with standoffs to create a
parallel array. The DCM uses a negative load-line to implement wireless droop-sharing in an array. Each
DCM in an array operates in the same way as it does as a stand-alone unit. With equal trim conditions,
the load is effectively shared across multiple DCMs. Mismatches in this case are modest, and are further
canceled by an effective negative voltage vs. temperature coefficient. See the DCM datasheet for more
detail on load line and tempco. DCMs in an array require no derating of maximum output power or
current.
DCMs in an array with mismatched trim conditions will not share the load equally at light- to
moderate-load conditions. As the load increases, one or more DCMs (starting with those with the
highest programmed output trim voltage) will go into current limit and their contribution to the overall
output current will plateau. For DCMs, current limit is not a fault condition, rather it is a valid constant-
current mode of operation and a DCM in current limit will provide constant current to the load. As long
as the load does not exceed the maximum load rating of the array of DCMs, the output voltage will
continue to be regulated by any remaining DCMs still in constant voltage mode. Even with mismatched
trim conditions, the array can be safely loaded up to the full rated array capacity.
The following connections and settings should be used for an array of DCM evaluation boards:
 All DCMs in a parallel array must be the same model.
 The boards should be physically stacked using metal standoffs at the +IN & –IN lugs, the +OUT &
–OUT lugs, and the CHASSIS_GND lug. This also connects these nodes electrically so that a single
source, single load, and earth ground connection can be made to the system.
 The +IN lugs are not required to be connected together for an array of DCMs. The wireless
sharing does not require the same differential input voltage be present on all DCMs in the array.
In some applications dissimilar input voltages may be needed, which is fully supported.

Rev 1.6 04/17 vicorpower.com Applications Engineering: 800 927.9474 Page 17
 The –IN lugs must be connected together if the paralleling connector is used, or if the EN, TR,
or FT pins are interconnected in any fashion. However if all control signals of all DCMs are fully
isolated from one another, then both the +IN and –IN lugs can remain independent across the
evaluation boards, and the DCMs can be operated with fully independent input supplies.
 Standoffs must be sufficient in length to avoid contact between boards, and to permit airflow to
all DCMs in the system.
 If coordinated enable control, trimming or fault monitoring is desired, then the paralleling connectors
J09 & J10 can be used to easily interconnect the PRI_FT, PRI_EN, PRI_TR_ and PRI_FT
nodes across boards.
The paralleling connectors at J02 & J03 can be used for coordinated enable and trim control and fault
monitoring. The enable, trim and fault monitor features of the top most board should be used for
convenience, while the remaining boards should have their jumper blocks depopulated and enable
switches set to enable.
The paralleling wire-to-board connectors (at J02 and J03) are provided to daisy chain control signals and
PRI_SG, with a simple strip and insert option. They will accept 18 – 24 AWG solid wires.
Figure 7
DCM evaluation boards stacked
to form a high power parallel
array, using common -IN and
the paralleling connectors.
Information furnished by Vicor is believed to be accurate and reliable. However, no responsibility is
assumed by Vicor for its use. Vicor components are not designed to be used in applications, such
as life support systems, wherein a failure or malfunction could result in injury or death. All sales are
subject to Vicor’s Terms and Conditions of Sale, which are available upon request.
Specifications are subject to change without notice.

Mouser Electronics
Authorized Distributor
Click to View Pricing, Inventory, Delivery & Lifecycle Information:
Vicor:
DCM3623EA5N06A2T70 DCM3623EA5N13B4T00 DCM3623EA5N26B4T70 DCM3623EA5N17B4T00
DCM3623EA5N0480T00 DCM3623EA5N53B4T70 DCM3623EA5N31B4T00 DCM3623EA5N0480T70
DCM3623EA5N53B4T00 DCM3623EA5N17B4T70 DCM3623EA5N06A2T00 DCM3623EA5N26B4T00
DCM3623EA5N13B4T70 DCM3623EA5N31B4T70 MDCD270P120M500A40 MDCD270P480M500A40
MDCD270P240M500A40 MDCD270P280M500A40 MDCD270P050M250A40 MDCD270P150M500A40
DCM3623E75X1780T00 DCM3623E75X1780T70 DCM3623E50M06A8M00 DCM3623E50T26A6M00
DCM3623E75H53C2T00 DCM3623E36G26C2T00 DCM3623E50T0480M00 DCM3623E50T0680M00
DCM4623ED2K04A5M00 DCM4623ED2N06A9T00 DCM4623ED2H15E0T00 DCM4623ED2K31E0M00
DCM3623E36G17C2T00 DCM3623E50M04A2M00 DCM4623ED2N13C8T00 DCM4623ED2K26E0M00
DCM3623E36G06A8T00 DCM3623E50M31C2M00 DCM3623E50M53C2M00 DCM3623E75H26C2T00
DCM3623E75H40C2T00 DCM4623ED2K53E0M00 DCM3623E50M13C2M00 DCM3623E50M17C2M00
DCM3623E50T31A6M00 DCM3623E50T53A6M00 DCM3623E75H06A6T00 DCM4623ED2H31E0T00
DCM4623ED2H53E0T00 DCM4623ED2N26C8T00 DCM3623E50M26C2M00 DCM3623E75H13C2T00
DCM4623EC8G16F0T00 DCM4623ED2J13D0T00 DCM4623ED2K17E0M00 DCM3623E36G31C2T00
DCM3623E36G40C2T00 DCM3623E36G53C2T00 DCM4623ED2N53C8T00 DCM3623E50T13A6M00
DCM4623ED2K06B5M00 DCM4623ED2N31C8T00 DCM3623E75H31C2T00 DCM4623ED2K13E0M00
DCM3623E36G13C2T00