High-Voltage DC Power Architecture

Overview

High-Voltage DC (HVDC) power architecture refers to data center power distribution systems operating at ±400V or 800V DC, as opposed to the conventional 48V DC bus standard. Higher voltage allows for lower current at equivalent power levels, directly reducing I²R resistive losses in distribution conductors by 10–20% compared to 48V systems. The reduced current also enables physically smaller conductors and connectors — saving up to 50% of rack space formerly occupied by 48V bus bars and cabling.

For AI data centers, HVDC becomes increasingly attractive above ~200kW per rack, where 48V systems require very high current (thousands of amps) that is impractical to manage with conventional bus bars. TE Connectivity has developed a portfolio of HVDC connectors (targeting ±400V and 800V architectures) designed to meet OCP and IEC safety standards. The industry is in a transitional period, moving rack power architectures from 48V toward 400V and eventually 800V, with HVDC deployments accelerating as rack power densities approach 200–300kW and beyond.