Chapter 4 - Off-the-Line Switchmode Power Supplies

Abstract

The rapid advancement of microelectronics in recent decades has created a necessity for the development of sophisticated, efficient, light weight power supplies which have a high power-to-volume (W/in 3 ) ratio with no compromise in performance. The high-frequency switching power supply meets these demands. Recently it has become the prime powering source in the majority of modem electronic systems. The trends associated with the switchmode power supplies for the electronic products and systems are to reach direct off-the-line design approach, higher frequencies be utilized, and output rating/volume being increased and minimizing the components and increasing reliability. This chapter discusses the basic blocks of direct off line SMPS units and the newer trends in technology such as distributed DC power. Introduction to magnetic components, use of magnetic amplifiers, and the modem trends in high frequency capacitors, are also introduced.