Will distributed on-board DC/DC converters become economically beneficial in telecom switching equipment?

The author considers different power distribution systems for telephone switching equipment. Described are central distribution, decentralized distribution with one converter per shelf, and decentralized distribution with distributed on-board supplies. Besides a choice between a more central type of power supply and a distributed architecture, there is also a choice of whether the design shall be of an internal or external nature. The situation is examined, and some key figures are estimated that can be used when choosing which way to go.<<ETX>>