Navitas Semiconductor has announced a strategic collaboration with NVIDIA focused on the development of an advanced 800 V HVDC (High Voltage Direct Current) architecture tailored for next-generation data centers. This initiative aims to support the burgeoning demands of AI workloads, enabling the efficient operation of 1 MW IT racks and larger systems.
The collaboration will leverage Navitas’ cutting-edge GaNFast™ and GeneSiC™ technologies to enhance NVIDIA’s next-gen systems, including its high-performance GPUs like the Rubin Ultra. As traditional data centers rely on low-voltage 54 V systems that pose limitations in power delivery and energy efficiency, NVIDIA’s new architecture aims to revolutionize power distribution by using solid-state transformers and industrial-grade rectifiers to convert 13.8 kV AC grid power directly to 800 V HVDC.
By transitioning to HVDC, the thickness of copper wiring can be reduced by as much as 45%, significantly decreasing weight and material costs while improving efficiency. This approach facilitates direct power delivery to IT racks, minimizing the need for additional voltage conversions that can compromise performance and lead to inefficiencies.
Gene Sheridan, CEO of Navitas, expressed pride in the collaboration, asserting that it not only highlights their innovative technology but also positions them uniquely in the evolving landscape of AI data centers and electric vehicles. As part of this initiative, NVIDIA’s 800V HVDC architecture is expected to enhance overall power efficiency by up to 5%, slash maintenance costs by 70% due to fewer power supply failures, and significantly lower cooling requirements.
This partnership signifies a major step towards greener, more effective data center designs that can meet the rapidly growing power demands associated with AI and extensive computational tasks. As more industries pivot towards sustainable technological solutions, innovations like the one offered by Navitas and NVIDIA could pave the way for future advancements in energy efficiency and reliability within the data center sector.