Modern servers, workstations, and telecom equipment often adopt an Intermediate Bus Architecture (IBA), which relies on a range of isolated DC-DC converters known as "bricks" to function efficiently. These brick-type converters supply low-voltage DC bus rails that enable designers to build high-efficiency, high-power-density, non-isolated point-of-load (POL) regulators, which drive various onboard components such as microprocessors, FPGAs, and ASICs. The lower step-down voltage ratios in modern systems make it easier to implement POL regulators effectively.
Named for their brick-like form factor, these converters typically follow standard sizes (e.g., quarter-brick, half-brick, full-brick) making them easy to integrate and replace.
Key Features
This Server Brick Power Module Automated Test System is a customized solution based on the Chroma 8000 ATS platform. Designed specifically for high-current, low-voltage DC-DC converters found on server motherboards, the system enables automated testing and validation of brick-type modules. Paired with Chroma's 62000P, 63200A, and 63600 series test instruments, it provides a comprehensive range of testing scenarios covering input characteristics and output performance, protection features, and PMBus communication. Unlike traditional automated test software, the software included in this system requires only minimal setup: simply define the test conditions and specifications, and automated testing can begin. Test reports are generated instantly upon completion for maximum efficiency.
Server Brick Power Module Test Items
The diagram below illustrates a typical power architecture in a data center server. The Power Supply Unit (PSU) delivers 48Vdc, which is then stepped down by various brick power modules to the voltages required by storage devices, cooling fans, and processors (e.g., 12V, 5V, 3.3V, 1.8V). Brick power modules feature low-voltage high-current characteristics, adapt to rapid dynamic load changes of processors, and support PMBus communication and power monitoring. As such, they must meet high performance, reliability, and digital control requirements.
Chroma’s automated test solutions can be programmed according to user-defined specifications to validate performance and reliability under real-world conditions, ensuring compliance with demanding industry standards. Test items covered include output performance, input characteristics, regulation testing for output stability, protection, and PMBus communication testing of power status parameters.
Output Performance
- Output voltage and current
- Peak-to-peak noise
- Efficiency
- Dynamic load response
Input Characteristics
- Input voltage and current
- Input voltage ramp-up/down
- Input current ripple
- Standby/no-load input current
Stability (Regulation) Testing
- Output stability under varying loads
- Stability under input voltage variations
- Comprehensive regulation testing
Protection Testing
- Over-current and over-power protection
- Short-circuit protection
Other Tests
- PMBus communication testing
The low-voltage high-current DC-DC converters used on server motherboards come in a wide range of ratings and specifications. Chroma’s comprehensive portfolio of test & measurement equipment ensures an automated test system can be tailored to meet specific product specs and testing needs. The recommended test system architecture and supporting equipment for power conversion devices are shown below:
▲ Recommended Test Equipment for Low-Voltage, High-Current Brick-Type DC-DC Converters on Server Motherboards
The Chroma 8000 test system includes PowerPro, Chroma's widely adopted power supply testing software platform. PowerPro provides an open software framework that allows users to freely select test hardware, develop their own test programs, automate pass/fail judgments, and conveniently generate reports.
The Chroma 8000 is fully compatible with all relevant device drivers and control commands. When users need to replace test hardware due to upgraded product specifications, the programmed test items and procedures can be reused without modifying the code, allowing seamless interchangeability of ATE equipment. Chroma’s deep expertise in power testing also means reliable technical support and consulting, which helps customers manage changes in test personnel without affecting the maintainability of the test platform.
▲ Chroma 8000 ATS Main Panel
▲ Test Execution (GO/NO GO) Screen
▲ Test Report
