Whether you need standard, off-the-shelf power supplies or a custom-designed unit for a specialty application, there are some key pieces of information you will want to consider as you make your switching power supply choice. At CET Technology, we offer both standard and custom power supplies and are happy to help you find the one that is right for your needs. Here are 5 things we’d recommend you consider.
Power Requirements
How much power do you need to deliver to the load? Standard models range from 3W to 150W. Higher or customer power levels are available if needed. In some cases, whatever you are powering does not present a fixed load. CET has developed power supplies that can handle momentary loads of several times their average load rating.
Operating (Output) Voltage or Current
The maximum output power is determined by output voltage x output current. Most power supplies provide a fixed output voltage at the desired level, and the load draws whatever current is needed for its normal operation. However, CET also produces constant current power supplies for applications such as LED drivers. These units provide a fixed output current at the desired level, and the load voltage varies as needed for the application.
Regulated Vs. Unregulated
A regulated power supply produces a fixed output voltage regardless of the load applied. Unregulated power supply has increased output voltage when connected to a lighter load. Almost all CET power supplies are regulated, but occasionally there is a need for unregulated power supplies (such as in a battery charging application.)
Linear or Switching
Thanks to new electrical efficiency regulations imposed by governments around the world, the linear power supply is becoming an endangered species. Linear power supplies use a power transformer to convert the AC line voltage to the desired output voltage. They also tend to be unregulated. In order to meet efficiency requirements, linear supplies are typically larger and more expensive than an equivalent switching power supply. Almost all CET power supplies use a switching architecture. Switching power supplies use high-speed switches and ferrite magnetic components to convert the AC line voltage to the desired DC output voltage. The control circuitry also provides a high degree of regulation.
Output Plug/Socket Matching
Power supplies have to be connected to the load. Most often, CET power supplies are provided with a barrel connector. This is a tubular connector where the center of the tube is positive polarity, and the outer surface is negative polarity. Barrel connectors are usually identified by IDxODxLength, for example, a 2.1×5.5×9.5 barrel has a 2.1mm ID; a 5.5mm OD; and a 9.5mm length. While barrel connectors are most common, CET can manufacture power supplies with practically any output connector, or even just stripped and tinned wires.
At CET Technology, our manufacturing process follows the highest standards and we pride ourselves on our product quality. Let us assist you in identifying the right power supply for your situation.
