GE Industrial Solutions 12V PicoTLynx 6A - Manual (Page 18)

GE
Data Sheet
12V PicoTLynx TM 6A: Non-Isolated DC-DC Power Modules
4.5Vdc –14Vdc input; 0.59Vdc to 5.5Vdc output; 6A Output Current
May 2, 2013 ©2013 General Electric Company. All rights reserved. Page 18
Thermal Considerations
Power modules operate in a variety of thermal environments;
however, sufficient cooling should always be provided to help
ensure reliable operation.
Considerations include ambient temperature, airflow, module
power dissipation, and the need for increased reliability. A
reduction in the operating temperature of the module will result
in an increase in reliability. The thermal data presented here is
based on physical measurements taken in a wind tunnel. The
test set-up is shown in Figure 49. The preferred airflow direction
for the module is in Figure 50.
Air
flow
x
Power Module
Wind Tunnel
PWBs
12.7_
(0.50)
76.2_
(3.0)
Probe Location
for measuring
airflow and
ambient
temperature
25.4_
(1.0)
Figure 49. Thermal Test Setup.
The thermal reference points, T
ref
used in the specifications are
also shown in Figure 50. For reliable operation the temperatures
at these points should not exceed 120 o C. The output power of
the module should not exceed the rated power of the module
(Vo,set x Io,max).
Please refer to the Application Note “Thermal Characterization
Process For Open-Frame Board-Mounted Power Modules” for a
detailed discussion of thermal aspects including maximum
device temperatures.
Figure 50. Preferred airflow direction and location of
hot-spot of the module (Tref).
Modules marked ruggedized with a “D” suffix operate up
to an ambient of 105
°C. For the remaining types de-
rating curves for individual output voltages meet existing
specifications up to 85
°C.