VadaTech's UTC020 Packs 950W Into Single-Width MicroTCA Power Module
New MicroTCA.0-compliant power module delivers a 150W-plus density advantage over comparable single-width units, targeting high-power AMC deployments in telecom, defense, and industrial systems.
VadaTech has introduced the UTC020, a MicroTCA.0-compliant power module that delivers up to 950W of DC power in a single-width, full-size (6 HP) form factor measuring approximately 75mm wide. According to the company, this represents more than 150W of additional capacity over any other same-sized module currently available, including VadaTech's own first-generation UTC010 unit.
The UTC020 is designed for MicroTCA systems where power density is a constraint — operators need to feed increasingly power-hungry AMCs (Advanced Mezzanine Cards) without sacrificing chassis slot count to additional power modules. By squeezing near-1kW output into a single-width footprint, VadaTech frees up slots that would otherwise be consumed by a second or wider power supply, an important consideration in space-constrained telecom central offices, defense electronics enclosures, and industrial control cabinets.
Power Architecture and Efficiency
The module accepts a dual -36V to -75V DC input and is rated at 95% efficiency at full load — a figure that matters directly for thermal design and OPEX in continuously-running telecom and data infrastructure deployments. The dual input design supports module redundancy, allowing systems to maintain power delivery in the event of a feed failure, a standard requirement for carrier-grade and mission-critical platforms.
Monitoring and Diagnostics
Onboard intelligence includes multiple temperature sensors that monitor for over-temperature conditions, reporting via a dual IPMI bus architecture. Current draw is continuously measured on a per-module basis, with fault conditions reported directly to the MicroTCA Carrier Hub (MCH), enabling proactive system management and fault isolation. Two banks of 256K flash memory are included for firmware and configuration storage.
Front panel diagnostics are extensive: status LEDs cover all 12 AMC slots, both MCH modules, and both cooling units, supplemented by blue, amber, green, and red indicator LEDs for the power module's own status. A front panel serial port is provided for direct diagnostic access, simplifying field troubleshooting without requiring a full management network connection.
Spec Summary
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Standard compliance | MicroTCA.0 |
| Max output power | Up to 950W DC |
| Form factor | Single width, full size, ~75mm wide (6 HP) |
| Efficiency | 95% at full load |
| Input voltage | Dual -36V to -75V DC |
| Redundancy | Dual-input module redundancy supported |
| Memory | 2 x 256K flash banks |
| Monitoring | Multiple onboard temperature sensors, dual IPMI bus, continuous current measurement |
| Front panel indicators | Status LEDs for 12 AMC slots, 2 MCH, 2 Cooling Units; blue/amber/green/red module status LEDs |
| Diagnostics | Front panel serial port |
Positioning in the Product Line
The UTC020 supplements VadaTech's existing MicroTCA power module portfolio, which spans AC and DC variants as well as double-width formats rated up to 1000W. Combined with the company's MCH modules, AMCs, chassis platforms, and application-ready systems, the UTC020 gives system integrators a way to maximize usable slot count in dense MicroTCA.0 deployments without stepping up to a wider power module.
The UTC020 delivers over 150W more than any same-sized module in the industry, letting integrators reclaim chassis real estate for compute and I/O rather than power infrastructure.
For engineers designing telecom, defense, or industrial MicroTCA platforms that need high-density DC power without giving up slot space, the UTC020 is available through Recab, VadaTech's regional partner for embedded and rugged computing solutions.