AI infrastructure is hot. New power distribution and liquid cooling
At the 2025 OCP EMEA Summit today, we discussed the power delivery transformation from 48 volts direct current (VDC) to the new +/-400 VDC, which will enable IT
Rapid growth AI and cloud computing is straining data center power systems. To meet increasing demands, 400V DC rack distribution is emerging as a more efficient and scalable solution. However, this transition comes with challenges, including safety concerns, thermal management and standardization.
As AI workloads continue to drive up data center power demands, both AC and 400V DC rack power distribution present compelling solutions for improving efficiency and scalability. While AC infrastructure remains dominant, its inefficiencies are becoming more apparent, particularly in high-power-density AI data centers.
At the most fundamental level, a 400V DC system reduces the number of power conversion stages, minimizing energy losses and improving overall efficiency. It also provides more stable and reliable power, reducing the risk of power quality issues that can affect sensitive data center equipment.
In this exclusive Q&A, Vicor contends that ±400-V DC power distribution to AI racks in data centers is inevitable. The demand for increased compute density. An evolution to ±400-V DC distribution to next-generation AI/ML supercomputer racks to meet that demand. Challenges and solutions in making the move to ±400-V DC distributed power.
.PDF includes complete article with source references.
Download UPS datasheets, battery sizing guides, and power redundancy white papers.
Via Monte Rosa, 91
20149 Milan, Italy
Italy (Sales): +39 06 8745 3292
Italy (Support): +39 335 729 8537
Mon-Fri: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (CET)