Vox Power (Dublin, Ireland) is extending its NEVO+ series output module range by adding digital control capability with a PMBus 1.2 compatible interface, enabling seamless integration into embedded systems via I²C. The digital output modules bring intelligent control and monitoring features directly to each output module of the NEVO+600 and NEVO+1200 platforms while maintaining full mechanical compatibility with existing output module slots, allowing users to add digital functionality without requiring an application redesign.
The NEVO+ Series is the smallest in its class and provides system designers a flexible power solution where size, weight and power density are key considerations. It offers multiple output voltages and power options that can be configured in minutes to suit virtually any application, according to the company. Users can also choose from a variety of output modules to provide up to 16 isolated outputs to meet the exact requirements of the application.
The tailor-made power solutions are safety approved and outputs can be connected in series or parallel to facilitate higher voltage or power requirements.
When configuring a NEVO+600 (with 600 Watt 5”×3”×1.61” ~600g chassis) or NEVO+1200 (with 1200 Watt 6”×6”×1.61” ~1.2 kg) power solution, a digital “D” output module can now be selected in place of the standard analogue versions and, over PMBus, monitor key operating parameters (voltage, current, power, temperature and status), adjust output settings such as output voltage and current limit, and store those settings to non-volatile memory so the module powers up in a predetermined state. This keeps the familiar NEVO mechanical format while adding full visibility and control at the output level.
The NEVO+ Digital Output Modules are available in multiple voltage classes with digitally controlled set-points within the ranges below:
- OP1D: 0V–7.5V, 25A, 125W
- OP2D: 0V–15V, 15A, 150W
- OP3D: 0V–30V, 7.5A, 150W
- OP4D: 0V–58V, 3.75A, 150W
- OPA2D: 0V–15V, 25A, 300W
- OPA3D: 0V–30V, 15A, 300W
To accelerate end-user development and reduce the complexity of working directly with PMBus, Vox Power also released an open-source Digital Development Kit based on the ESP32 microcontroller.
The Development Kit demonstrates module communications via USB and WiFi (TCP/IP and websocket) and includes:
- A web interface browser-based virtual instrument and datalogger for a visual way to read and set parameters
- A VISA-compatible SCPI language interpreter (“skippy”) for customised programming sequences and ATE-style control
- Support for direct PMBus access for development workflows
- The ability to control and monitor up to 8 digital modules from a single controller PCB
- Configuration workflows including store-to-NVM and JSON export/import for repeat builds and factory programming
Because the interface supports address discovery, zone configuration and standard SMBus transactions, multiple NEVO+ digital modules can be identified, grouped and controlled on the same bus — ideal for systems where several rails must ramp together or be inhibited together. By reading status and fault registers over PMBus™, system designers can spot issues early and reduce service time.
To aid broader system connectivity, the development kit includes a hardware expansion interface compatible with auxiliary connectivity options (e.g., Mikroe click modules/add-on boards) so customers can implement their preferred protocol where required (such as CAN bus, Modbus, DALI, DMX and others). Protocol implementation and integration options can vary by application and will be communicated separately.
The NEVO+ Digital Output Modules are designed to support direct connection to batteries and other external power sources, opening opportunities for battery-connected and energy-related applications where charging behavior is managed at system level.
For more information, Vox Power provides a product selector/configuration tool.
