Programmable DC-DC Converters Span 12 to 48 V Inputs

TDK Corporation has introduced 120 W and 240 W programmable isolated DC-DC converters for industrial automation, test and measurement, robotics, railway, renewable energy, semiconductor manufacturing and other applications requiring regulated DC power. The DDSM series combines a wide input and output voltage range with digital control, local display functions and remote monitoring through Modbus over USB.

Wide-Range DC Voltage Conversion
The converters accept nominal input voltages from 12 to 48 V DC, with an allowable range of 10.8 to 52.8 V DC. Their nominal output range extends from 5 to 55 V DC, with a maximum specified range of 4.7 to 57 V DC.

This wide conversion range allows the same converter family to support both step-down and step-up voltage requirements. Applications include compensating for voltage drops across long cable runs, increasing voltage to support system loads, providing isolated voltage rails for Power-over-Ethernet systems and supplying equipment with non-standard operating voltages.

The broad voltage range can also reduce the number of different converter variants required across equipment platforms, potentially simplifying power-system design and inventory management.

120 W and 240 W Output Classes
The DDSM120 provides up to 120 W with an output current range of 1 to 5 A, while the DDSM240 provides up to 240 W and supports 1 to 10 A. Both models use the same 5 to 55 V nominal output range. TDK specifies conversion efficiency of at least 91.7% for the 120 W model and 93.0% for the 240 W model under its stated test conditions.

At 48 V DC input and full rated output power, maximum specified losses are 10.9 W for the 120 W model and 18.1 W for the 240 W model. The specified no-load consumption is up to 5.3 W and 5.0 W, respectively. The converters operate from -25 °C to +70 °C ambient temperature, with power derating according to temperature.

Digital Control and Remote Monitoring
The DDSM series incorporates a two-digit, seven-segment display and three front-panel push buttons for local configuration and operation. The display provides access to device settings, alarms and status information.

Remote configuration and monitoring are available through a Mini USB interface using Modbus communication. TDK's PowerCMC control and monitoring software can be used to access operating information and control the converters. This interface allows power-converter parameters and status information to be incorporated into commissioning and maintenance workflows.

A 24 V, 1 A DC-OK signal is also available from the front panel for external power-status monitoring.

DIN-Rail Installation for Industrial Equipment
The converters are designed for DIN-rail mounting and have dimensions of 40.0 mm wide, 115.0 mm high and 116.6 mm deep. The specified weight is 500 g.

TDK identifies applications in factory and process automation, test and measurement, broadcast and professional audio, LED lighting, commercial aerospace, railway, renewable energy, semiconductor manufacturing, robotics and off-highway automotive equipment.

The programmable output is particularly relevant to equipment platforms that operate with different load voltages. Instead of selecting separate fixed-output converters for each voltage requirement, engineers can configure the output within the converter's specified range.

Safety and EMC Compliance
The DDSM series is certified to IEC/EN/UL/CSA 61010-1, IEC/EN/UL/CSA 61010-2-201 and IEC/EN/UL/CSA 62368-1 Edition 3. The products are CE and UKCA marked for applicable regulatory requirements.

The converters meet Class B radiated and conducted emission requirements under EN 55032 and specified immunity requirements under the EN 61000-6 series. These standards establish limits and test methods for electromagnetic emissions and immunity in electrical and electronic equipment.

Additional Context :
This section details technical specifications and competitive benchmarking not included in the original product announcement

The DDSM series occupies a different segment from conventional fixed-output DIN-rail DC-DC converters. For example, XP Power's DDC40 series provides 40 W with a 10 to 32 V input range and 5 to 24 V output range, while its DTE40 series provides 40 W with 4:1 input ranges and fixed output options. These products demonstrate the more common approach of combining a relatively narrow power rating with predefined output voltages.

By comparison, the DDSM series provides up to 240 W, a nominal 12 to 48 V input range and a programmable 5 to 55 V output range. The 240 W model also specifies 93.0% conversion efficiency. This combination of power level, input range and programmable output distinguishes the series from the lower-power fixed-output DIN-rail converters cited above.

The comparison is based on published power, voltage range and output configuration rather than overall product superiority, since thermal performance, isolation characteristics, protection functions and application requirements can vary between converter families.

Edited by Sucithra Mani, Induportals editor – adapted by AI.

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