Board mount AC DC converters are electronic devices that convert alternating current (AC) from mains power to direct current (DC) at required voltage levels. These components are critical in modern electronics, enabling power supply to printed circuit boards (PCBs) across diverse applications. They ensure safe voltage transformation, electrical isolation, and stable power delivery in compact form factors.
| Type | Functional Characteristics | Application Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Isolated AC-DC Converters | Provide galvanic isolation between input and output circuits | Medical equipment, industrial controllers |
| Non-Isolated AC-DC Converters | Direct connection between input and output with shared ground | Consumer electronics, LED lighting |
| Modular AC-DC Converters | Standardized footprints with integrated EMI filtering | Telecom infrastructure, test equipment |
Typical construction includes: - Die-cast aluminum housing with heat dissipation fins - PCB assembly with bridge rectifier, PFC circuitry, and switching MOSFETs - Transformer for voltage conversion and isolation - Output capacitors and voltage regulation ICs - Safety-certified insulation barriers between primary/secondary sides
| Parameter | Description & Importance |
|---|---|
| Input Voltage Range | 90-264VAC (global compatibility) |
| Output Power | 3-500W (determines load capacity) |
| Efficiency | 85-94% (impacts thermal management) |
| Isolation Voltage | 1500-3000VAC (safety compliance) |
| Operating Temperature | -40 C to +85 C (environmental reliability) |
Key industries include: - Industrial automation (PLC systems, motor drives) - Medical devices (patient monitors, diagnostic equipment) - IT infrastructure (servers, data storage) - Smart home systems (HVAC controllers, security devices) - Renewable energy systems (solar inverters, battery storage)
| Manufacturer | Representative Product |
|---|---|
| TDK-Lambda | DRB-25-24 (25W medical-grade converter) |
| Mean Well | IRM-10-05 (10W industrial power supply) |
| CUI Inc | PBO-10-12 (10W open-frame converter) |
| RECOM Power | RAC05-05SK/277 (5W industrial converter) |
Key considerations: - Match input/output requirements with system specifications - Verify safety certifications (UL, CE, IEC60601) - Evaluate thermal management needs - Consider PCB layout constraints - Balance cost vs reliability requirements
Emerging developments: - Increased efficiency targets (>94%) through GaN/SiC technology - Miniaturization with planar magnetics integration - Smart converters with digital monitoring interfaces - Enhanced EMC performance for IoT applications - Energy harvesting compatibility in low-power designs