An AI-Optimized Voltage Regulator Module

Voltage Regulator Module optimized for AI applications boasts high efficiency, dynamic voltage range, and compact design, meeting the exacting demands of modern CPUs, GPUs, etc.

Flex Power Modules have launched the BMR511, a two-phase power stage for Voltage Regulator Module (VRM) solutions. The company claims the module can be acquired with Land Grid Array (LGA) or solder-bump connections and is designed for bottom-side cooling. In terms of application areas, the design is tailored explicitly for Artificial Intelligence (AI) applications. It is utilized by a variety of hardware components, including Central Processing Units (CPUs), Graphics Processing Units (GPUs), Image Processing Units (IPUs), and high-performance Application-Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs).

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The Voltage Regulator Module functions within a 5-15 Volts input and offers a flexible 0.5–1.8 Volts output, controlled by an external mechanism using tri-state Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) inputs. It can sustain a continuous current of 80 Amperes and peak at 140 Amperes, boasting a high efficiency of up to 94.5%. Devices can be paired directly for increased current outputs. Its adaptable input voltage range aligns with various front-end Intermediate Bus Converters, supporting input-to-output ratios from 3:1 to 7:1. 

The press release highlights that the voltage regulator module operates within a temperature range of -40°C to 125°C at a specified reference point. Flex Power Modules offer detailed thermal derating information for airflow speeds and cold plate/board temperatures. Its two power stages can be individually toggled on or off. Additionally, it offers feedback on device temperature and individual phase currents to an external controller. The module also incorporates fault reporting and over-current protection. The compact, halogen-free module has dimensions of 0.9 cm²/0.14 in² and stands 8 mm/0.31 tall.

Some of the key features of VRM include:

• High efficiency
• Can be paralleled with other units
• Remote control
• Reporting temperature and current for each phase
• Excellent thermal performance
• Halogen-free
• Input voltage range 5 – 15 V
• Output voltage range 0.5 – 1.8 V
• Max output current 80 A TDC/ 140 A peak

“The BMR511 is ideal as a VRM power stage for AI applications”, comments David Xie, Director of R&D and Product Management, China of Flex Power Modules. “The tiny form factor and high peak power rating perfectly match the power rail requirements of modern CPUs, GPUs, IPUs and high-performance ASICs”.