Schaefer Intros E-Series DC/DC Step-Up Converters
Schaefer Inc. (Ashland, MA) has introduced the E-Series of 100W-10kW, 3U and 6U high, VME/Eurorack compatible dc/dc step-up converters. The step-up converter is designed to meet the problem where output voltage varies with the charging condition of a battery in applications where a battery charger is feeding a parallel connection of batteries. In order to control voltage variations, the step-up converter can be used with the output connected in series with the battery. The E-Series is available for six standard battery voltages from 12-220Vdc. The converter is capable of stepping up the input voltage by 20 percent, according to Schaefer. For a 12V battery, the charger/battery voltage could drop as low as 9.5V during battery charging where the step-up converter would compensate and bring the load voltage up to a fixed 12V.The new units are packaged in a variety of 3U and 6U VME/Eurorack configurations, depending on output power rating, and incorporate DIN 41612 H15 I/O connectors. Options available include "ruggedization," inhibit, power fail/ac-ok, system reset, active current sharing for redundant operation, and wall mounting to allow for non-rack-mounted applications. The converters are targeted for applications such as locomotive controls and communications equipment, telecommunication systems, process control systems, power stations and virtually all other "sensitive" battery charger applications. Mechanical and electrical modifications to standard modules available upon request, as well as pre-configured rack solutions. Starting prices range from $320 to $5995 each, in quantities of 100.
