Validus DC Systems, LLC

About Validus DC Systems, LLC

Validus DC Systems, established in 2002, operates in the electrical equipment industry, specializing in integrated direct current (DC) power infrastructure for data centers and telecommunications facilities. The company's business is centered on providing end-to-end DC power solutions that offer increased energy efficiency and reliability compared to traditional alternating current (AC) systems. By minimizing power conversion losses, their technology can improve energy efficiency by 10 to 20 percent. This approach also reduces the physical footprint of power equipment, leading to savings on real estate and capital expenditures of up to 30%.

The company's product line is designed to manage power from the utility source to the server rack. It begins with the Power Quality Module (PQM), which converts AC power to high-voltage DC power. The Power Distribution Module (PDM-575) then serves as a central interface for all system components. A key component is the Power Converter Unit (PCU) 120, which uses patented technology to convert high-voltage DC to a usable -54Vdc for server rows. This system can be integrated with various energy sources, including batteries, solar power, wind turbines, and fuel cells. Validus also offers a "Hybrid Power" technology that allows for a gradual migration from legacy AC systems to DC topologies. In addition to its products, Validus provides a suite of services, including planning, technical assistance, commissioning, preventative maintenance, and equipment monitoring.

Historically, the company has formed strategic alliances to advance its market position. In October 2009, Validus partnered with GE Consumer & Industrial's electrical business to jointly promote the DC Data Center System, which integrated GE's electrical components. A significant milestone occurred in May 2011 when ABB, a leader in power and automation technologies, acquired a controlling interest in Validus. This acquisition was aimed at bolstering ABB's entry into the telecommunications and data center power infrastructure market. Prior to this, in December 2007, Validus had secured $10 million in Series A funding from Oak Hill Venture Partners. In total, the company has raised $11.8M in funding, with investors including ABB Ventures and Oak Hill Venture Partners.