Vicor Corporation has granted a non-exclusive license to a new, unnamed original equipment manufacturer (OEM), giving the licensee the right to procure Vertical Power Delivery (VPD) modules covered by Vicor patents from unlicensed suppliers, according to a press release from the company.

VPD technology is designed to deliver high current density from a low voltage source to AI compute and network processors. Vicor states the technology addresses what it calls "the last inch problem" associated with Lateral Power Delivery systems. VPD systems consist of a multi-cell converter and a VPD network and are covered by patents stemming from research conducted by Vicor in the United States.

Under the licensing arrangement, licensees may source VPD solutions from unlicensed global suppliers whose multi-cell voltage regulators or integrated voltage regulators are stacked in a multi-layer system. Licensees that procure VPD modules directly from Vicor may receive discounts on royalties otherwise owed for commodity VPD modules sourced from unlicensed suppliers.

Vicor states that early adopters of its licensing program may receive lower royalty rates. The company also noted that supply agreements with infringing suppliers may include indemnification provisions for recovery of royalties and monetary damages, but cannot address importation bans.

Vicor (NASDAQ: VICR) manufactures its MCM current multiplier products, marketed as ChiPs, at its own fabrication facilities in the United States.