AC-DC converter IC set to do away with energy-wasting linear transformer adapters
23 October 2002
Power Electronics / Power Management
What is said to be a revolutionary switching power supply IC, that cost-effectively replaces inefficient linear transformer designs in adapters and battery chargers rated at 3 W and below, has been announced by Power Integrations.
The 'LinkSwitch' (derived from phrase 'Linear Killer Switch'), is a highly integrated high-voltage power conversion IC designed specifically to displace low power linear transformers by delivering switcher benefits. This means smaller size, lighter weight, superior performance and energy efficiency - at equal or lower system cost, according to the company.
With as few as 14 components, the LNK501 can enable a fault protected, universal input (85 to 265 V a.c.), constant voltage, constant current (CV/CC) output switching power supply that meets worldwide energy efficiency standards.
The LinkSwitch family is based on the same technology as the company's widely used TOPSwitch product lines. It combines a 700 V power MOSFET, PWM controller, high voltage start-up, current limit, and thermal shutdown circuitry onto a single CMOS chip.
LinkSwitch introduces a revolutionary topology for low power switching supplies that rivals the simplicity and low cost of linear supplies. The part uses a novel primary-based CV/CC solution that combines the primary clamp, feedback, IC supply and loop compensation functions. This eliminates up to twenty external components typically found in alternative switcher designs. This CC power supply output characteristic is ideal for many low cost battery chargers, providing overload protection under output short circuit conditions.
Requiring only three terminals, LinkSwitch includes a number of built-in features including thermal and current limit protection, auto-restart for short circuit and open loop fault protection, and the company's EcoSmart technology which reduces the energy consumption of the power supply during standby and no-load conditions. This enables engineers to design converters that easily meet government energy guidelines such as energy star, blue angel, the EC code of conduct, and others.
Further reading:
Powering Innovation eBook: Changing what’s possible
Power Electronics / Power Management
This exclusive read, entitled ‘Changing what’s Possible,’ delves into how power dense Vicor modules enable many world-changing innovations across various sectors.
Read more...
16-channel multicell battery monitor
Altron Arrow
Power Electronics / Power Management
The ADBMS6830B is a multicell battery stack monitor that measures up to 16 series-connected battery cells with a lifetime total measurement error of less than 2 mV.
Read more...
Reliable redundancy with the Mibbo M3DN Series
Conical Technologies
Power Electronics / Power Management
Designed for use with two parallel-connected power supplies, the M3DN Series allows for true redundancy, making it ideal for mission-critical applications.
Read more...
Automotive power-over-coax inductor
RS South Africa
Power Electronics / Power Management
TDK has launched the ADL8030VA, a high-performance inductor designed specifically for power-over-coaxial applications.
Read more...
Rugged PSU for challenging conditions
Conical Technologies
Power Electronics / Power Management
Built for rugged reliability, the Mibbo MFC Series delivers stable, efficient power in environments where moisture, dust, and temperature extremes are everyday challenges.
Read more...
Enhance SiC device efficiency using merged-pin Schottky diodes
NuVision Electronics
Editor's Choice Power Electronics / Power Management
Silicon carbide (SiC) has advantages over silicon (Si) that make it particularly suitable for Schottky diodes in applications such as fast battery chargers, photovoltaic (PV) battery converters, and traction inverters.
Read more...
15 W power module with wide input range
Brabek
Power Electronics / Power Management
RECOM’s miniature power modules provide 15 W output and operate over a wide input range of 18-264 V AC or 18-375 V DC.
Read more...
Industrial-grade DIN rail PSU
Conical Technologies
Power Electronics / Power Management
The Mibbo MTR960W is a reliable and cost-effective PSU option that delivers a solid 960 W of output power at 24?or 48 V DC.
Read more...
Energy harvesting and Matter for smarter homes
RF Design
Power Electronics / Power Management
Qorvo’s collaboration with e-peas on the Matter Enabled Light Switch marks another significant step in advancing Matter adoption across the IoT industry.
Read more...
3-terminal filters for automotive applications
RS South Africa
Power Electronics / Power Management
TDK has expanded its YFF series of 3-terminal filters for automotive applications to include higher voltages up to 35 V and higher capacitances up to 4,7 µF.
Read more...