PI3525-00-LGIG - 48V Input 5V/20A ZVS Buck Regulator | Vicor
MPN: PI3525-00-LGIG ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $28.5 | $28.50 |
| 10 | $26.1 | $261.00 |
| 100 | $23.4 | $2,340.00 |
| 500 | $21.15 | $10,575.00 |
| 1,000 | $19.5 | $19,500.00 |
PI3525-00-LGIG Overview
What is a ZVS buck regulator? A ZVS buck regulator is a high-frequency switched-mode DC/DC converter that uses zero-voltage switching - the high-side FET is turned on only after its drain-to-source voltage has fallen to approximately 0V - to minimize switching losses and EMI. ZVS buck regulators sit in the hierarchy: synchronous buck regulator -> step-down DC/DC converter -> DC/DC switching regulator -> power management IC. Vicor's Cool-Power ZVS portfolio targets point-of-load applications where high density and efficiency are required, in a footprint far smaller than discrete buck designs.
Key features of the PI3525-00-LGIG include 20A continuous output current, 30V to 60V input operating range, fixed 5.0V output (no external feedback resistors), internal synchronous rectification, and a high switching frequency that enables a small output inductor footprint. The 110-BLGA module integrates the controller, FETs, inductor and key passives, reducing the external BOM to input/output capacitors and a few configuration resistors.
Architecture-wise, the PI3525-00-LGIG uses a ZVS buck topology with adaptive dead-time control, current-mode control for fast transient response, and internal protection including over-current, over-temperature, and input under-voltage lockout. According to Vicor, the Cool-Power ZVS family delivers efficiency exceeding 90% in many point-of-load rails, and the integrated LGA package removes parasitic layout losses normally seen in discrete buck converters.
Typical applications include 48V telecommunications and networking equipment, intermediate bus converters feeding downstream point-of-load regulators, industrial automation with 48V or 60V distributed power, and high-current ASIC/FPGA rails in datacom and AI compute hardware. The 5V/20A output is well suited to powering memory banks, MCUs, and serializer/deserializer (SerDes) PHYs that require tight regulation from a higher-voltage distribution bus.
When designing with this part, follow Vicor's reference PCB layout recommendations strictly - the LGA land pattern, thermal vias, and input/output capacitor placement are critical to achieving rated efficiency and thermal performance. Use the recommended X7R or X5R ceramic capacitors on input and output to handle the ripple current, and ensure the ground return plane is unbroken beneath the module to minimize switching noise coupling.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing (as of 2026-10-14), drop-in compatible alternatives within the Vicor Cool-Power ZVS family, and practical design notes that complement the official Vicor datasheet to help engineers evaluate the PI3525-00-LGIG for 48V point-of-load conversion.
Drop-in alternatives for PI3525-00-LGIG — same package, pin-to-pin compatible. Different-package parts requiring PCB rework are excluded.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PI3525-00-LGIZ
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PI3525-00-LGIZ-1
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PI3585-00-LGIZ
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PI3526-00-LGIZ
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PI3525-00-LGIG Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Topology | ZVS Buck (synchronous, zero-voltage switching) |
| Function | Step-down DC/DC switching regulator |
| Output Configuration | Positive Fixed |
| Output Voltage | 5.0 V (fixed) |
| Output Current | 20 A |
| Number of Outputs | 1 |
| Input Voltage Range | 30 V to 60 V |
| Nominal Input Voltage | 48 V |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Package / Case | 110-BLGA Module (14 mm x 10 mm) |
| Operating Temperature | -40C to +125C |
| Protection Features | Over-current, Over-temperature, Input UVLO |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
PI3525-00-LGIG 110-blga module (14 mm x 10 mm) Pin Configuration Guide
Pin configuration for PI3525-00-LGIG (110-blga module (14 mm x 10 mm) package). This power device features gate, drain, and source terminals. For non-polarized packages, refer to the manufacturer datasheet for exact pin 1 orientation and footprint details. Common applications include power supply design, motor driving, and load switching.
No detailed pinout data available for PI3525-00-LGIG.
Refer to the datasheet for full pin configuration.
Typical Applications
PI3525-00-LGIG is suitable for 6 applications: 48V Telecom Point-of-Load Regulation, Datacenter Server and AI Accelerator Power, Industrial 48V/60V Distributed Automation, High-Current ASIC and FPGA Memory Rails, Battery-Backed 48V Intermediate Bus, LED Display and Large-Format Lighting Drivers.
48V Telecom Point-of-Load Regulation
The PI3525-00-LGIG converts a 48V telecom distribution rail to 5.0V at up to 20 A for downstream point-of-load regulation. The 30-60V input range per Vicor's datasheet covers the full ETSI 48V tolerance window including battery float conditions, and the integrated ZVS buck topology eliminates the need for a downstream discrete buck at each POL site. Why this part fits: the 5V/20A output (100W) delivers a clean, high-current rail for FPGAs, network processors, and DDR memory. Compared to a discrete buck, the 110-BLGA module saves roughly 60-70% of PCB area and reduces EMI by virtue of Vicor's internal layout. Recommended companion: PI3525-00-LGIZ as drop-in volume variant.
Recommended
Datacenter Server and AI Accelerator Power
The PI3525-00-LGIG's 20 A continuous output from a 48V bus makes it suitable for datacenter server and AI accelerator boards operating on 48V-distributed power architectures. Why this part fits: per Vicor's product page, the ZVS topology maintains >90% efficiency even at high step-down ratios, and the 110-BLGA module delivers 100W in a 14x10 mm footprint - critical for dense accelerator boards where every mm2 counts. The fixed 5V output eliminates feedback resistor losses and simplifies safety certification. Compared to traditional 12V-intermediate-bus architectures, a 48V-to-PoL approach using this part halves distribution current and cuts I2R losses by 4x. Recommended companion: PI3526-00-LGIZ for 12V aux rails.
Recommended
Industrial 48V/60V Distributed Automation
The PI3525-00-LGIG operates across 30-60V inputs and -40C to +125C, making it a fit for industrial 48V/60V distributed automation cabinets. Why this part fits: the wide input window tolerates long cable drops and inductive transients common on factory floors, while the industrial temperature grade per the LGIG suffix supports outdoor and motor-cabinet environments. The ZVS switching topology reduces EMI - critical for passing industrial CE/UL emissions limits without bulky filtering. The integrated 110-BLGA module replaces a discrete buck + FETs + inductor + compensation network, reducing assembly time and improving MTBF. Recommended companion: PI3585-00-LGIZ for sensor and actuator supplies at 8V.
Recommended
High-Current ASIC and FPGA Memory Rails
The PI3525-00-LGIG is well matched to high-current memory rails on ASIC and FPGA boards. Why this part fits: at 5.0V/20A the regulator sources the typical DDR termination or transceiver PHY power requirement, and the ZVS topology yields clean switching edges that minimize ringing into sensitive serializer/deserializer (SerDes) data lines. Vicor's ZVS topology per the datasheet reduces switching noise by switching the high-side FET at near-zero Vds, which is significant for 28Gbps+ SerDes that are vulnerable to power-rail noise coupling. Compared to a discrete 20A buck, the module's integrated magnetics and internal ground plane deliver low di/dt loop inductance. Recommended companion: PI3525-00-LGIZ for production volumes.
Recommended
Battery-Backed 48V Intermediate Bus
The PI3525-00-LGIG accepts 30-60V inputs typical of battery-backed 48V distributed buses in telecom central offices and substation equipment. Why this part fits: the lower 30V UVLO threshold keeps the regulator off below safe battery cutoff, while the 60V upper limit handles 48V battery equalization transients. Per Vicor's product information, the Cool-Power ZVS platform is designed for high-availability telecom loads where converter downtime is unacceptable. The integrated 110-BLGA module simplifies board re-spins when battery topology changes, and the fixed 5V output removes feedback-trim variability across production boards.
Recommended
LED Display and Large-Format Lighting Drivers
The PI3525-00-LGIG's 48V input and high-current 5V output also suit LED display backplanes and large-format solid-state lighting drivers that use 48V power distribution. Why this part fits: per the Vicor datasheet, the ZVS topology achieves high efficiency at 48V to 5V step-down, which lowers thermal stress in sealed display enclosures with limited airflow. The wide -40C to +125C operating range per the LGIG part-number suffix supports outdoor LED panels and high-brightness architectural lighting. Compared to a 48V LED driver using a discrete buck + fan, the integrated 110-BLGA module runs cooler and quieter, and the 5V intermediate rail simplifies the downstream constant-current LED stage.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PI3525-00-LGIG — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PI3525-00-LGIZ | PI3525-00-LGIZ-1 | PI3585-00-LGIZ | PI3526-00-LGIZ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Vicor | Vicor | Vicor | Vicor | Vicor |
| Package | 110-BLGA Module (14x10 mm) | 110-BLGA Module (14x10 mm) - same | 110-BLGA Module (14x10 mm) - same | 110-BLGA Module (14x10 mm) - same | 110-BLGA Module (14x10 mm) - same |
| Input Voltage Range | 30 V to 60 V | 30 V to 60 V | 30 V to 60 V | 30 V to 60 V | 30 V to 60 V |
| Output Voltage | 5.0 V (fixed) | 5.0 V (fixed) | 5.0 V (fixed) | 8.0 V (fixed) | 12.0 V (fixed) |
| Topology | ZVS Buck | ZVS Buck | ZVS Buck | ZVS Buck | ZVS Buck |
| Operating Temperature | -40C to +125C | -40C to +125C | -40C to +125C | -40C to +125C | -40C to +125C |
| Shipping Package | Tray (G) | Tape & Reel (Z) | Tape & Reel (Z) | Tape & Reel (Z) | Tape & Reel (Z) |
Key Differentiators
- Integrated ZVS topology with internal controller, FETs, and inductor (vs Discrete 48V-to-5V/20A buck (e.g. LM5123 + external FET + inductor + sense))
- Wide 30-60V input eliminates intermediate bus converter (vs 48V/12V intermediate bus + buck converters)
- Fixed 5.0V output trimmed at factory (vs Adjustable-output PI3525 family variant or external feedback buck)
Design Notes
Follow Vicor's reference PCB layout exactly for the PI3525-00-LGIG 110-BLGA footprint. The LGA pads require thermal vias directly under the central ground array to carry heat into the inner copper layers. Place the input ceramic capacitors (X7R, 2x 2.2uF 100V minimum per the datasheet layout example) as close as possible to the VIN balls and use a continuous top-layer ground pour returning to the module's GND balls. Routing the output 5V plane and the input 48V plane directly into the balls minimizes the high-current loop inductance, which directly determines switching ringing and efficiency at the ZVS transition.
Estimated: at 48V input, 5V/20A output and full load, the PI3525-00-LGIG dissipates approximately (48-5)*20 = 860 mW plus switching/inductor losses (targeted 5-7% loss total per ZVS platform datasheets). With roughly 1 square inch of inner copper plane tied to the LGA thermal vias, junction temperature rise stays below 40C in still air; without thermal vias the part will exceed 100C and trigger OTP. For sealed enclosures with no airflow, use 4 or more 12-mil thermal vias on the central GND pad array to drop theta_JA near 10-15 C/W.
Do not substitute the tray-pack PI3525-00-LGIG on a high-volume SMT line without confirming the pick-and-place profile - the BLGA balls require a precise reflow profile and nitrogen atmosphere is recommended. Also do not reuse the PI3525-00-LGIG land pattern for a lower-current PI3585 (8V/lower current) or higher-voltage PI3526 (12V) variant without checking output voltage downstream - drop-in footprint compatible, but the output voltage changes. Finally, ensure input polarity is correct: the 110-BLGA pin map dedicates specific balls to PGND, AGND, VIN and VOUT, and reverse connection will destroy the module before input fuse protection.
Compliance Information
RoHS compliance confirmed by Vicor product page. Industrial -40C to +125C grade. Not AEC-Q100 qualified (industrial/telecom/datascom target application). Reach, halogen-free, and conflict-minerals status were not returned in the verified web data and remain unknown.
