Gallium Nitride (GaN) technology is reshaping the landscape of DC-DC converter design. As highlighted in EPC’s eBook “GaN for DC-DC Conversion – Multilevel Converters,” GaN-based multilevel converters offer dramatic performance improvements over traditional silicon-based designs—delivering higher efficiency, reduced size, and superior thermal behavior.
At PICO BOX, we’ve fully embraced this cutting-edge technology. We have integrated low-voltage GaN FETs into the heart of our new line of DC-DC ATX power supplies, which are capable of delivering 12V power output from 200W up to 750W. These high-efficiency, compact solutions are tailored for today’s space-constrained, high-performance computing needs—and are scheduled for mass production in 2025.
🔋 Why GaN is Transforming DC-DC Converter Design
1. Superior Efficiency and Power Density
GaN transistors switch faster and with far less loss than traditional silicon MOSFETs. This means more power output with less energy wasted, enabling designs with significantly higher power density. EPC’s research shows GaN converters achieving 97.8% efficiency at 250W, demonstrating the possibilities when GaN is paired with smart topologies like flying capacitor buck converters.
2. Compact, Lightweight Designs
With high-frequency operation comes the ability to use smaller inductors and capacitors, resulting in sleek, lightweight power supplies—ideal for HTPCs, embedded systems, and mini-PCs that demand performance in tight spaces.
3. Cooler, More Reliable Operation
GaN FETs reduce conduction and switching losses, meaning less heat is generated during operation. This not only improves energy efficiency but also enhances reliability and longevity, while enabling fanless, silent power supply designs.
4. Enabling Advanced Topologies
Multilevel topologies like flying capacitor converters benefit immensely from GaN’s characteristics—delivering better efficiency, lower voltage stress on components, and excellent transient performance, especially in dynamic computing loads.
⚙️ PICO BOX’s GaN-Based DC-DC ATX Power Supply Line
Our new GaN-powered DC-DC ATX power supplies are designed for modern computing platforms requiring efficient and stable 12V rails. Ranging from 200W to 750W output, these products are perfect for applications such as:
• Mini PCs and HTPCs
• Autonomous systems and robotics
• Automotive and industrial computing
• Off-grid computing setups with battery or solar inputs
Key advantages include:
• Compact form factor for small system builds
• Wide DC input support (ideal for battery packs and solar systems)
• Advanced thermal management with reduced cooling requirements
• Quiet, fanless operation where silence matters
🚀 Ready for the Future: Mass Production in 2025
Our GaN-powered DC-DC ATX power supply series will begin mass production in 2025, offering:
• Reliable 12V output from 200W up to 750W
• Compact, silent, and thermally efficient design
• Ideal compatibility with 48V battery systems, MPPT solar controllers, and more
With this new product line, PICO BOX empowers system integrators, makers, and manufacturers to step confidently into the DC-powered future—where high performance and small footprint are no longer trade-offs.
GaN is the future—and at PICO BOX, we’re already there.
Experience smaller, cooler, and smarter DC-DC ATX power solutions built for tomorrow’s challenges.
📘 Deep dive into GaN-based converter design: EPC eBook – GaN for DC-DC Conversion
