Contactless DC connector based on GaN LLC converter for next generation data centers

Contactless DC connector has been proposed for the next generation 380 V DC distribution system in data centers. A LLC resonant DC-DC converter topology with Gallium Nitride (GaN) power transistors has been applied to realize the short-distance inductively-coupled connector. A prototype of a 1.2 kW 384 V-192 V connector has been fabricated under 500 kHz operation. The conversion efficiency of 95% has been confirmed, and the approach for realizing higher efficiency has been also shown. The contactless DC connector integrates the functioning of an isolated DC-DC converter into a connector for space-saving. The DC current can be cut off without arc because of the inductive coupling. The proposed connector contributes to realizing highly efficient, space-saving and reliable future DC distribution system.