A new class of compact, high-power rack mount industrial supplies has emerged, promising hot-swap redundancy and easy system expansion for automation, test and network infrastructure.
A series of 1U-high, 19-inch industrial power supplies by TDK Corporation is redefining how engineers approach high-density power delivery in factory automation, test systems and data infrastructures. Designed for modular integration, each rack can house up to four 3500 W units and deliver up to 13.3 kW of bulk power, or be configured for hot-swap redundancy to keep critical systems running without interruption.
The key features are:
- Up to 13.3 kW in a 1U rack via four 3500 W modules
- Hot-swap redundancy with internal ORing MOSFETs and current share
- Isolated PMBus™ interface for remote control and monitoring
- Wide AC input range (85–264 Vac) with built-in derating
- Dual variable-speed fans and international safety/EMC compliance
At the core, these supplies address a common challenge in industrial setups: scaling power capacity without compromising footprint or uptime. With support for parallel operation (up to three racks), engineers can boost output in steps while maintaining operational flexibility. Built-in features such as internal ORing MOSFETs and current sharing help ensure balanced load distribution and resilience against single-module failure, improving availability in mission-critical environments.
Communication and control are central to this design. An isolated PMBus (I²C) interface enables remote monitoring and adjustment of key parameters, such as output voltage and system health signals, from within automated control platforms. Standard control signals include AC fail, DC good, remote on/off and auxiliary output options, making integration with existing management systems straightforward.
Electrical design supports a wide AC input range from 85 to 264 Vac, with built-in derating below 170 Vac to safeguard performance. The physical design incorporates dual variable-speed fans to manage thermal loads efficiently in 1U rack environments, where space and cooling are often at a premium. Safety and compliance are addressed with a suite of international certifications covering low-voltage, EMC and safety directives, as well as emissions standards suited to industrial and commercial applications.
Use cases extend across factory automation, automatic test equipment (ATE), additive manufacturing, industrial printing, RF transmission, base stations and server racks — areas where high-density, reliable power delivery and uptime are non-negotiable.
