Using Modular DC/DC Converter for Battery Powered Railway Applications

This application note underlines the different requirements that are in use for battery powered railway applications and describes how to comply with GAIA Converter DC/DC modules in the design of complex boards.

When using DC/DC modules two options of requirements can be retained.

The first is at ?sub system level? considering the DC/DC module as a complex electronic system. The second is at component level considering the DC/DC module as a component.

If considered as electronic sub-systems, DC/DC modules have to comply with stringent requirements and have to come with documented files on :

• development methodology,
• recommended component derating factor,
• circuit diagrams, layout,
• track layout requirements,
• bill of materials,
• maintenance files, .....

Those requirements are governed by different standards among which the most popular are the French NF-F 67001 and application file MTCE, the Italian ?Specifica 306158? or the English BRB/RIA 13.

But more and more designers are considering DC/DC module as components, relying on the manufacturer quality and qualification approvals.

If considered as components, DC/DC modules have to comply with external environmental requirements that apply to electronic boards. In this context, DC/DC converters used in battery powered railway electronic applications are relevent of two major categories :

• for electronics on mobile equipment,
• for electronics on fixed equipments.

For these two major categories, requirements and standards are different.

More in our application note ...