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Renesas Powers 800 V DC Architecture for AI Data Centers, Pushing Next-Gen Power Systems

On October 13, 2025, Renesas Electronics Corporation revealed an exciting innovation for AI data centers. They now support an 800-volt direct current (800 V DC) system. This is made possible by new GaN (gallium nitride) power semiconductors. As AI workloads grow, energy efficiency, power density, and thermal management are crucial. Renesas's solution addresses these challenges. It offers high-efficiency DC power distribution in racks. It also keeps compatibility with current 48 V systems using DC/DC converters. Renesas claims that its DC/DC converters, based on an LLC 'Direct Current Transformer' (LLC DCX) topology, can reach up to 98 % efficiency. On the AC side, its approach uses bi-directional GaN switches to simplify rectifier design and enhance power density. Renesas notes that GaN FETs (field-effect transistors), along with its controllers, drivers, and complementary…