A wall transformer or power supply converts high-voltage AC power to safer, low-voltage DC power for devices. They are stand-alone, safety approved devices, designed for the end-user to safely connect directly to the AC mains. A wall plug-in switch-mode power supply (SMPS) transforms power from a source to an output device by using switching devices that turn off and on at high frequencies.
With a comprehensive standard product line, Triad Magnetics has the capabilities to design, build, and manufacture custom solutions for diverse commercial and industrial applications. Learn more about wall plug-in switch-mode power supplies, including their unique benefits, functionality, and the specific product types we offer.
What Is a Switch-Mode Power Supply?
A SMPS is an electronic circuit that uses a switching regulator to convert AC or DC electrical power to an output load. Unlike other linear power supplies, an SMPS utilizes a transistor to quickly switch the device on and off at high frequencies, regulating the voltage and minimizing energy waste. Capacitors, inductors, and other storage components supply power when the switching device is in a non-conduction state.
A switch-mode power supply is classified into the following major categories:
- DC/DC: Converts DC input to DC output.
- DC/AC: Converts DC input to AC output.
- AC/DC: Converts AC input to DC output.
ASMPS can power a diverse range of equipment, such as sensitive electronics, computers, battery-operated products, and other high-efficiency devices.
Advantages of SMPS
- Department of Energy (DOE) Level VI efficiency compliance
- Increased efficiency (from 68% to 90%)
- Regulated, reliable outputs despite variations in the input voltage
- Keep heat away from sensitive circuits
- Flexibility
- High power density
- Compact and lightweight
There are several different circuit configurations, which are known as topologies. Each configuration features unique modes of operation, characteristics, and advantages. Triad Magnetics integrates flyback topology into our switch-mode power supplies.
Flyback Topology
Flyback topology is a versatile energy storage solution for lower-power applications. This isolated SMPS topology utilizes a transformer to store energy in its magnetic field during the first part of the switching cycle. The energy gets released to the secondary winding connected to the output load during the other half of the cycle.
How Flyback Topology Works
A flyback converter stores energy from the input source into a transformer when the primary power switch is in the “on” position. When the switch gets turned off, the voltage of the transformer reverses, delivering energy to the output and forward-biasing the output catch diode.
Flyback transformers, also known as coupled inductors, feature gapped-core construction, which allows for high energy storage without core saturation. They can deliver a negative or positive output, defined by the polarity.
Basic Energy Transfer Modes of Operation
- Continuous Conduction Mode (CCM): Part of the energy stored in the flyback transformer remains inside the transformer until the next “on” cycle begins.
- Discontinuous Conduction Mode (DCM): All the energy stored within the transformer is transferred to the load when the unit is in the “off” position.
- Critical Conduction Mode (CRM): Also known as transition mode (TM), CRM falls between CCM and DCM, meaning that the stored energy reaches zero at the end of the switching period.
Advantages of Flyback Topology in Switch-Mode Power Supplies
A flyback converter is the most common type of isolated topology and is often chosen over other configurations because it does not require a separate storage inductor. Other advantages include:
- Basic circuitry
- Cost-effectiveness
- Ease of design and maintenance
Switch-Mode Power Supplies From Triad Magnetics
Triad Magnetics offers the following types of Wall Plug-in SMPS units:
- WSU Series have a built-in standard North American NEMA 1-15P input plug. They are available with output voltage from 4.5VDC to 24VDC with power levels from 6W to 40W
- WSX Series: Identical to the WSU Series, but features interchangeable input plugs including NEMA 1-15P; UK type G; EU type C; and Australian type I.
- WMX Series: Certified to UL60601for medical applications They are available with output voltage from 4.5VDC to 48VDC with power levels from 24W and 50W cases.
Our products are available with a wide range of output connectors as well as , reversed polarity (-R), and voltages. The output voltage remains regulated and does not vary with the load.
Eliminating the cooling device from the internal power supply effectively reduces the size, weight, and noise level of the finished product. Other features of SMPS products from Triad Magnetics include:
- Reliable design with five-year warranty coverage
- UL and global safety agency approval for faster time to market
- Design freedom to solve high-voltage issues for end products
Contact Triad Magnetics for Switch-Mode Power Supplies
For over 80 years, Triad Magnetics has provided innovative magnetic technology solutions for a broad range of industrial and commercial applications. We continually adapt to the evolving needs of our customers, able to customize any of the 1,000+ standard parts we stock. In addition to design and engineering support, we maintain extensive product availability through our vast distribution and inventory network.
Contact us or request a quote today to see how our switch-mode power supplies can meet your project requirements.