AC-DC power supplies

AC-DC power supplies are power supplies that convert alternating current from the grid into direct current that is needed to power most electronics. From transportation and industrial markets to consumer and IoT applications, ac-dc power supplies are integral components in systems that make the world go round. CUI has set out to demystify power and provide OEMs, design engineers, and software engineers with solutions for their systems. When reliable performance is critical, you need a power supply solution that will give you high efficiency, accuracy, stability and repeatability.

AC-DC power supplies, also known as AC/DC adapters or power converters, are devices that convert alternating current (AC) electrical energy from a power outlet into direct current (DC) electrical energy suitable for powering electronic devices. These power supplies are ubiquitous in modern electronics, serving a wide range of applications across various industries, including consumer electronics, telecommunications, industrial equipment, medical devices, and more.

The primary function of an AC-DC power supply is to convert the incoming AC voltage from a power source, typically mains electricity, into a stable DC voltage that matches the requirements of the electronic device it powers. This conversion process involves several stages, including rectification, filtering, voltage regulation, and sometimes isolation.

Key components within an AC-DC power supply include transformers, rectifiers, capacitors, voltage regulators, and sometimes feedback control circuits. These components work together to ensure that the output DC voltage remains within specified tolerance levels, providing a stable and reliable power source for the connected device.

AC-DC power supplies come in various form factors, including wall adapters, desktop power supplies, open-frame modules, and enclosed power supplies. They also vary in terms of output voltage, current capacity, efficiency, and other features to accommodate the diverse needs of different applications.

DC-DC Power Supplies

A DC to DC power supply converts a direct current (DC) input supply to a DC output supply typically at a different voltage level. There are many different types of DC power supply converters available, which are grouped into three categories: linear DC power supplies, switching DC power supplies, and switching flyback. A linear DC power supply is typically a very cost-effective solution and can have superb performance with very low circuit noise but suffers from low efficiency. A switching DC power supply is more efficient than a linear power supply and produces less heat, especially when the difference between the input and output supply is large but can add noise to the circuit. A switching DC flyback converter uses a transformer to physically isolate the output supply from the input supply. There are also many other power supply topologies available with different benefits and power levels. Choosing the right DC to DC power supply for a system requires balancing cost versus performance, as well as identifying constraints like connector type, form factor, thermal management and circuit protection needs. Shop Arrow’s section of DC to DC power supplies and DC power modules today.

DC-DC power supplies are devices that convert one level of DC voltage to another, often with regulation of the output voltage. Unlike AC-DC power supplies, which convert AC voltage to DC, DC-DC converters work exclusively with DC voltage.

These converters are used in a wide range of applications where there is a need to step up (increase), step down (decrease), or invert (change polarity) DC voltage levels while maintaining stable output voltage. They are commonly employed in various electronic devices and systems, including battery-powered devices, automotive electronics, renewable energy systems, telecommunications equipment, and industrial control systems.

DC-DC power supplies utilize different topologies and control techniques to achieve the desired voltage conversion. Some common types of DC-DC converters include:

1. Buck Converter (Step-Down Converter): Converts higher input voltage to a lower output voltage.
2. Boost Converter (Step-Up Converter): Increases the input voltage to a higher output voltage.
3. Buck-Boost Converter: Capable of both stepping up and stepping down the input voltage.
4. Flyback Converter: Used for isolation and voltage regulation in low-power applications.
5. Forward Converter: Similar to the flyback converter but used in higher power applications.
6. Full-Bridge Converter: Suitable for high-power applications, offering better efficiency and control.

DC-DC power supplies come in various form factors and configurations, including integrated circuits (ICs), modules, and standalone units. They may also incorporate additional features such as overvoltage protection, overcurrent protection, and thermal shutdown to enhance the reliability and safety of the power conversion process.

Power supplies manufacturers