Description

DC-DC converters accept DC input and provide regulated and/or isolated DC output in various applications including computer flash memory, telecommunications equipment, and process control systems. DC-DC converters are frequently used on vehicle-mounted systems computer flash memory, telecommunication equipment and process control systems.

Performance Specifications

DC Output

DC output is the most important parameter to consider when searching for DC-DC converters.  Common outputs converted include:

• 3.3V
• 5V
• 12V
• 15V
• 24V
• 48V

DC Input

Choices for nominal DC input for DC-DC converters include:

• 12 VDC
• 24 VDC
• 48 VDC
• 110 VDC
• 280 VDC

• 360 VDC

Other

Other performance specifications to consider include:

• Output power is measured by the wattage rating, which is the total nominal power output of a converter.
• Line regulation is the percent change in output voltage when VDC input is varied from lowest value to highest value.
• Load regulation is the maximum steady state amount that the output voltage changes as a result of a specified change in load.
• Minimum load is specified for the primary output for converter to meet performance specifications.
• Operating temperature

Features

Common features for DC-DC converters include:

• Constant current supply (CC) designed to provide an output current that stays constant with changes in load impedance.
• Overvoltage protection is internal circuitry that limits or shuts down the voltage output in an overvoltage condition. When present, it is most usually found on the primary output.
• Overcurrent protection is internal circuitry that limits or shuts down the current output in an overcurrent condition.
• Short circuit protection employs techniques to protect the converter in the event of a short circuit on the load may include electronic current limiting and thermal resets with automatic recovery.
• Remote on and off converters have the option to turn the devices on or off remotely.
• Application software included for control or monitoring

Design Options

Mounting

Common mounting options include:

• PCB mount
• PC board
• Internal or open frame mount power supplieshave exposed circuitry and components. They aresimply circuit boards to which all of the circuitry and components attach on one side.
• Rack mount come with hardware such as rail guides, flanges, or tabs. Some rack-mounted devices fit in a standard 19" telecommunications rack.

• DIN railare standard DIN rail mount. DIN is an acronym for Deutsches Institut für Normung (DIN), a German national organization for standardization.

User Interface

User interface options include:

• Analog front panel
• Digital front panel
• Computer interface
• Parallel interface
• Serial interface

Display

Display options include:

• Analog meter or indicators
• Digital readouts

• Video displays

Standards

SMD 5962-03241

SMD 5962-03242

SMD 5962-03243

SMD 5962-03244

References

Image Credit:

Cooper Bussmann, Inc.