Chip Talk > Revolutionizing Power Density: The EPC91109 GaN Buck Converter Evaluation Board
Published June 24, 2025
The semiconductor industry is in the throes of a groundbreaking transformation thanks to the advent of gallium nitride (GaN) technology. Efficient Power Conversion Corp (EPC), a key player in this arena, has recently unveiled the EPC91109, a high-efficiency 180W GaN buck converter evaluation board, tailored for USB Power Delivery (USB-PD) applications.
The new evaluation board is designed with space and power constraints in mind, specifically targeting advanced designs across the spectrum of consumer electronics like laptops and other portable gadgets.
GaN technology is celebrated for its ability to usher in higher efficiency, compactness, and enhanced thermal performance compared to traditional silicon counterparts. This is particularly evident in the EPC91109, which combines four 50V-rated EPC2057 GaN FETs with an Analog Devices LTC7890 dual-phase buck controller.
Operating within an input range of 20V to 36V, this assembly can output voltages hovering at 12V, 16V, or 20V. Notably, in a two-phase interleaved configuration, the board supports output currents peaking at 14.3A. This remarkable power density aligns perfectly with the 180W USB-PD power envelope projected from devices operating at a 12V output from a 36V power source.
One of the standout features is the board's ultra-compact 24mm x 24mm power stage which requires neither heatsinks nor forced air cooling, marking a significant leap in design efficiency. Additionally, it’s equipped with a low-profile inductor that stands at just 3mm in height, ensuring that cooling remains more of a strategic thought than a necessary design challenge.
Moreover, the peak efficiency of the EPC91109 surpasses 98% under standard operating conditions, underlining the promise of higher power densities and robust performance that GaN FETs can bring.
At the heart of this technological innovation is the synergy between EPC’s GaN FETs and advanced controllers from Analog Devices. This collaboration brings about converters that are not just smaller and faster but also unrivaled in cool efficiency, challenging the standing of silicon-based alternatives.
By adopting these cutting-edge technologies, the EPC91109 is not just a product, it’s a reference design – a blueprint showing what's possible when you push the envelope on efficiency and power density.
The EPC91109 represents a substantial R&D endeavor, equipped with not just the latest in technological advancements but priced reasonably at $317.09. The individual EPC2057 devices are available at $0.657 each in reels of 2.5K units from distributor Digi-Key Corp, making the latest in GaN tech accessible to engineers and product developers globally.
With the EPC91109, Efficient Power Conversion Corp is setting a new standard for what GaN technology can do in the realm of power electronics. As the industry continues to evolve, witnessing these technologies being integrated into mainstream products will be pivotal. From compact laptops to portable power solutions, the horizon is indeed brightened by this emerging GaN era.
The semiconductor landscape is on the cusp of revolution, and EPC is making sure its innovations are at the forefront. For those invested in USB-PD and power conversion, the EPC91109 might just be the board that marks a significant leap forward in design and efficiency trajectory.
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