TDK Adds i9C Buck-Boost DC-DC Modules With 99% Efficiency Mode
TDK-Lambda has launched the i9C non-isolated buck-boost DC-DC converter series with programmable pass-through technology, supporting up to 99% efficiency in robotics and battery-powered systems.
The i9C series is a non-isolated DC-DC buck-boost converter module used for voltage regulation in robotics, communications, test and measurement, industrial systems, and battery-powered equipment. The modules are built around TDK-Lambda’s patented programmable high-efficiency pass-through technology, which allows the converter to bypass switching regulation under defined input conditions to reduce conversion losses.
Pass-Through Mode Pushes Efficiency Toward 99%
The central feature in the i9C series is the programmable high-efficiency pass-through, or PHEPT, operating mode. Within a user-defined input voltage window, the module bypasses its normal switching conversion stage and directly connects the input to the output. That removes most of the conversion loss normally associated with DC-DC regulation. According to TDK-Lambda, efficiency can reach as high as 99% while operating in this mode.
In battery-powered systems, that changes more than just the converter efficiency figure itself. Lower switching loss reduces heat generation, which can affect cooling requirements, enclosure design, and overall battery runtime. In compact robotics or mobile systems, thermal limits often become restrictive long before the actual electrical power limit is reached.
The bypass approach also makes sense in systems where the battery voltage spends a large portion of its operating life near the required output voltage range.
Quarter-Brick Package Supports Multiple Cooling Approaches
The i9C series uses a compact wide quarter-brick package with an integrated baseplate. TDK-Lambda says the module is designed to support convection, conduction, or forced-air cooling depending on the application environment.
That flexibility matters in systems like AGVs, AMRs, drones, and humanoid robotics where airflow conditions are not always predictable. Some installations may have almost no available airflow at all, while others rely on chassis conduction or tightly managed forced-air cooling paths.
The baseplate design also helps simplify thermal integration for higher-current systems operating in elevated ambient temperatures.
Adjustable Protection Features Reduce External Circuitry
The modules include several standard control and protection functions, including remote sense, power-good signaling, negative-logic on/off control, and user-adjustable overcurrent protection. TDK-Lambda says the adjustable overcurrent protection can help reduce stress on both the converter and the connected load while also reducing the need for additional external circuitry.
The i9C series also includes a configurable low-power sleep mode intended for idle or light-load operation. In battery-powered systems, idle-state power loss can become increasingly important once the main conversion efficiency has already been optimized, especially in systems that spend significant time in standby or partial-load conditions.
The i9C series is intended for industrial, communications, test and measurement, robotics, and battery-powered equipment applications. Target systems include AGVs, AMRs, commercial drones, and humanoid robotics platforms. The modules are certified to IEC/UL/CSA/EN 62368-1 safety standards and carry CE and UKCA markings.
Learn more and read the original announcement at www.us.lambda.tdk.com
View the TDK-Lambda i9C datasheet
Technology Overview
The TDK-Lambda i9C series is a non-isolated buck-boost DC-DC converter family designed for industrial and battery-powered systems. The first model supports 9V to 80V input, 9.6V to 60V output, and up to 30A output current. The modules use programmable high-efficiency pass-through technology to bypass switching conversion within a defined voltage window, enabling operating efficiency of up to 99%.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the TDK-Lambda i9C series used for?
The i9C series is designed for industrial, communications, robotics, test and measurement, and battery-powered applications including AGVs, AMRs, commercial drones, and humanoid robotics.
How does the i9C series reach 99% efficiency?
The modules use programmable high-efficiency pass-through technology, which bypasses switching regulation and directly connects the input to the output within a defined voltage range.
What cooling methods does the i9C series support?
The quarter-brick package with integrated baseplate supports convection cooling, conduction cooling, and forced-air cooling.
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