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Voltage Regulator Modules (VRM)

T09.2 - Powering AI Accelerators by Power Modules with Minimized Power Distribution Network Losses

Wednesday, March 25, 2026
8:50 AM - 9:10 AM CT
Location: 214A
GPUs in AI accelerators now demand current exceeding 1,000 A within the limited area for power converters, which significantly increases Power Distribution Network (PDN) losses along the lateral power delivery path from the DC-DC converters to the GPUs. To minimize PDN losses and improve load transient response, DC-DC converters are packaged into compact power modules that can be placed closer to the GPUs. Furthermore, low-profile modules can be mounted on the backside of the board, enabling vertical power delivery to the GPU and HBM cores on the topside and further reducing PDN losses and parasitic inductance in the power delivery paths. This paper introduces two-phase synchronous buck converter modules that save space, lower switching noise, and improve converter efficiency and thermal dissipation. By employing multiple two-phase modules, two power delivery solutions for next-generation GPUs and HBMs are demonstrated: one supplying 1,100-A current on the topside through lateral power delivery, and another delivering 1,100-A current vertically from the backside. Experimental evaluation compares efficiency, power loss, voltage gradient, and transient response of both solutions.