13-09-2017, 09:31 AM
AC-DC converters are electrical circuits that transform the AC input into the direct current (DC) output. They are used in electronic power applications in which the energy input is 50 Hz or 60 Hz sine-wave voltage that requires power conversion for a DC output. AC to DC converters use rectifiers to enable AC input at the DC output, regulators to adjust the voltage level and tank capacitors to soften the pulsating DC. This video explains how AC converts to DC.
Types
• Linear devices are simple and relatively inexpensive, but also large and inefficient. They process excess energy as heat, which can be problematic for some temperature sensitive applications.
• Switching devices are more complex AC to DC converters using a switched power supply (SMPS). A switching regulator changes very rapidly between the ON and OFF states, minimizing wasted energy. Switching converters are more efficient, smaller and lighter, but also more complicated. They can cause electrical noise problems if they are not carefully suppressed, and simple designs can also have a poor power factor.
Budget
• The permitted AC input (eg 115, 208 or 230 VAC only) or a range (eg 85-264 VAC) can be set.
• The DC output is measured in watts (for example 3 to 1,000), volts (for example, 3 to 380) and amps (positive or negative, 1.6 to 6000).
• Operating temperature ranges (eg -20 to 70 ° C) are also available for AC converters.
Characteristics
AC-DC converters can have more than one output and can present overcurrent, overvoltage or short-circuit protection. Robust devices are suitable for hard and shock-resistant use, and are used in military applications. Some switching converters feature active or passive power factor correction to counteract distortion and raise power factor. There may be a remote on / off switch.
Applications
AC-DC converters are used in computers, televisions, cell phone chargers and other consumer electronic devices. They are also used in medical, military and telecommunications equipment; kitchen appliances; industrial machinery; and commercial products using DC motors.
Types
• Linear devices are simple and relatively inexpensive, but also large and inefficient. They process excess energy as heat, which can be problematic for some temperature sensitive applications.
• Switching devices are more complex AC to DC converters using a switched power supply (SMPS). A switching regulator changes very rapidly between the ON and OFF states, minimizing wasted energy. Switching converters are more efficient, smaller and lighter, but also more complicated. They can cause electrical noise problems if they are not carefully suppressed, and simple designs can also have a poor power factor.
Budget
• The permitted AC input (eg 115, 208 or 230 VAC only) or a range (eg 85-264 VAC) can be set.
• The DC output is measured in watts (for example 3 to 1,000), volts (for example, 3 to 380) and amps (positive or negative, 1.6 to 6000).
• Operating temperature ranges (eg -20 to 70 ° C) are also available for AC converters.
Characteristics
AC-DC converters can have more than one output and can present overcurrent, overvoltage or short-circuit protection. Robust devices are suitable for hard and shock-resistant use, and are used in military applications. Some switching converters feature active or passive power factor correction to counteract distortion and raise power factor. There may be a remote on / off switch.
Applications
AC-DC converters are used in computers, televisions, cell phone chargers and other consumer electronic devices. They are also used in medical, military and telecommunications equipment; kitchen appliances; industrial machinery; and commercial products using DC motors.