Power distribution in SLHC trackers using embedded DC-DC converters

by Federico Faccio (CERN)

Friday 23 Jan 2009, 11:00 → 12:00 Europe/Zurich

40-S2-D01 (CERN)

The tenfold increase in the number of channels in SLHC trackers makes the power distribution scheme used for LHC trackers generally inadequate, because either the available material or thermal budgets would be far exceeded. The distribution of power at higher voltage (i.e.10V), with conversion to lower voltage and regulation functions embedded in close proximity to the FE electronics, is an effective solution to meet the SLHC requirements, provided a set of unique difficulties related to our specific application are solved. The large radiation and magnetic field in the tracker environment are of course two of the main challenges to be faced, together with EMC issues linked to the integration of switching converters inside a sensitive detection system. The PH department has started an R&D activity in 2008 aiming at the development of converters meeting this unique set of requirements. After a schematic illustration of how power is distributed in the trackers just installed at the LHC, a proposed power distribution scheme for SLHC and based on 2 DC-DC conversion stages will be detailed. Progress towards solving the fundamental challenges will be shown: which topology to choose for the converter, how to select an appropriate technology to survive radiation, how to design custom PCB air-core inductors, how to keep noise below acceptable limits. This will lead to an optimistic conclusion to the talk. Detector Seminar webpage Organizer: Erik Heijne / PH-ESE

Slides PHDetSeminar_0109.pdf