What You Always Wanted To Know About DC/DC Power Converter

What do you do to convert a Direct Current (DC) of a certain voltage level to that of another level? As you may have guessed, you use a DC/DC power converter. These devices convert a given input voltage into a different output voltage. Their applications include stepping down a car battery output to operate a car audio or radio; decreasing the PC motherboard voltage to operate modern CPU chips; and stepping up voltage from one cell to operate an electronic circuitry.

DC/DC Power Converter: How It Works

This device changes input energy into different impedance. Irrespective of the output voltage, the output power is derived from the input. We can represent input as being equal to power output plus the losses. Most converters today have an efficiency of around 80-85%, while some also offer 90% efficiency. The energy losses are a result of energy used up by the components and circuitry during the conversion process.

DC/DC Power Converter: Types

While there are different types of DC/DC power converter, here are the two basic types:

1. Linear converter: The output voltage is lower than the input; hence, they are inefficient, especially in case of high current and large voltage drop. This leads to wastage in the form of heat. To eliminate this, larger and more costly components are required.

2. Switching mode: These are small, lightweight devices that convert direct current from one voltage to another. They are also more energy efficient, as they store energy only temporarily to release the output at a different voltage. They are also used in portable devices (those that work on batteries), as they work efficiently at low input voltages. These are used in cell phones, laptops, and GPS-receivers.

The DC/DC power converter is also used at places that require regulated voltages or protection from short circuits.

Since these devices differ in terms of their output and input voltages, you must purchase them based on their application and use. While some applications demand step-up converters, others demand step-down ones. There are still others that demand only those with full dielectric isolation between input and output circuits.
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