VPT Introduces the First 100K Rad Hard Point-of-Load DC-DC Converter

BLACKSBURG, Va., March 16 /PRNewswire/ -- VPT, Inc., a HEICO company (NYSE: HEI.A) (NYSE: HEI), today announced the availability of a new point-of-load power converter designed and manufactured for the extreme environment of space. The new SVGA Series point-of-load DC-DC converter delivers extremely high efficiency at a cost that doesn't shock a user's budget.

(Photo:  http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20100316/SF71489)

The SVGA Series, the latest addition to VPT's existing line of space DC-DC converters, steps down the voltage at the point of use in a distributed power system and is optimized for today's digital electronics. Characterized to 100krad (Si) total dose radiation under VPT's radiation program per MIL-PRF-38534, Appendix G*, the SVGA Series is optimized for reliable performance in deep space missions, satellite applications, space station initiatives, and any ultra reliability application in a space environment.

"These modules are ultra light weight, have a tiny footprint, and offer incredible high efficiency to provide designers with a smaller point-of-of use power converter option over the standard size DC-DC converters. This saves both board space and weight – critical issues when designing spacecraft," explained Michael J. Bosmann, Senior Vice President of Marketing and Sales. "Affordability and reliable operation ensure that the SVGA Series is an optimum choice for tomorrow's space programs."

Operating at a nominal frequency of 250 kHz, these regulated non-isolated converters serve low voltage point-of-load applications such as ASICs, processors, and other digital electronics. The SVGA point-of-load converters are designed and manufactured in facilities qualified to ISO9001 and certified to MIL-PRF-38534 Class H and Class K and MIL-STD-883.

Specific product features include:

• High power density, >100W/in3
• High reliability
• Operation from a wide 5V input
• Adjustable output voltage from 0.8V to 3.4V
• Up to 10 amps or 33 watts output power
• Extremely high efficiency, up to 94%
• Output inhibit control
• Low output noise
• No use of optoisolators
• Short circuit protection
• Precision projection welded hermetic package
• MIL-PRF-38534 element evaluated components
• Characterization and assurance to 100krads (Si), per VPT's RHA plan specified per MIL-PRF-38534, Appendix G, Level R (100krads).* After radiation exposure, converter testing is performed at 25 degrees C per standard datasheet limits.
• Characterization to 85.4 MeV-cm2/mg with minor transients only; no dropouts, shutdowns, latch up or burn out
• Critical semiconductor component piece-parts and assured converter products

*VPT's certified radiation program per MIL-PRF-38534, appendix G, is currently under review by the Defense Supply Center Columbus (DSCC). Contact DSCC directly at 604-692-0585 for the current status.

The SVGA is packaged in hermetically sealed metal cases for reliable power delivery through the extreme temperature, shock, vibration, and radiation environments of space travel.

The radiation hardened SVGA modules are available with pricing beginning at US $2,100.00 in OEM quantities. Complete technical details are available at http://www.SVGAseries.com. For further information, contact VPT at (425) 353-3010.

About VPT and HEICO

VPT, Inc., part of the HEICO Electronic Technologies Group, leads the industry in providing innovative DC-DC power converters, EMI filters, and custom engineering services for avionics, military, and space applications. VPT can deliver its patented power solutions in a fast timeframe, with certified quality, at a comfortable cost. Every day, organizations like NASA, Lockheed Martin, Boeing, Raytheon, the United States Air Force, and many more depend on quality solutions from VPT to power critical systems. Whether on the ground, in the air, or beyond, VPT provides the power driving critical missions today. For more information about VPT, please visit the web site at www.vpt-inc.com.

HEICO Corporation (NYSE:HEI.A) (NYSE:HEI) is engaged primarily in certain niche segments of the aviation, defense, space and electronics industries through its Hollywood, FL-based HEICO Aerospace Holdings Corp. subsidiary and its Miami, FL-based HEICO Electronic Technologies Corp. subsidiary. HEICO's customers include a majority of the world's airlines and airmotives as well as numerous defense and space contractors and military agencies worldwide in addition to medical, telecommunication and electronic equipment manufacturers. For more information about HEICO, please visit the web site at http://www.heico.com.

SOURCE VPT, Inc.