Power distribution/stiffener for active back plane technologies

摘要

Disclosed is a backplane assembly that includes stiffeners to provide both mechanical stiffening and electrical power distribution. In particular, the present invention provides a power distribution system that comprises a backplane, a power stiffener having alternate layers of dielectrics and conductors proximately located to the backplane, and removable connection to electrically connect the conductors in the stiffener to the backplane. Because power can be transferred directly to the backplane from the stiffener via the connection, the need for power cables and bus bars on the backplane is eliminated. In addition, noise suppressing capacitors may be located on the power stiffener, close to the load source.