What is a switched-mode power supply (SMPS)?
1 Answer
A switched-mode power supply (SMPS) is a type of power supply that efficiently converts electrical power from one form to another by rapidly switching the input voltage on and off at high frequencies. It is also known as a switching power supply or switching regulator.
The basic principle behind an SMPS involves transforming the input voltage (typically AC) into a high-frequency, pulsed voltage. This pulsed voltage is then passed through an inductor and/or a transformer to step it down or up to the desired output voltage level. Finally, the output voltage is smoothed and regulated to provide a stable DC voltage suitable for powering electronic devices.
The main advantages of SMPS over traditional linear power supplies are efficiency and compactness. Linear power supplies dissipate excess energy as heat, which reduces their efficiency, especially when there is a significant voltage drop across the regulator. On the other hand, SMPS operates at high frequencies, allowing for higher efficiency and reduced heat dissipation, making them smaller and lighter.
SMPS is widely used in various electronic devices such as computers, televisions, smartphones, routers, and many other consumer electronics, as well as in industrial applications and power distribution systems. The efficiency and versatility of SMPS have made it a preferred choice for many modern power supply applications.
The basic principle behind an SMPS involves transforming the input voltage (typically AC) into a high-frequency, pulsed voltage. This pulsed voltage is then passed through an inductor and/or a transformer to step it down or up to the desired output voltage level. Finally, the output voltage is smoothed and regulated to provide a stable DC voltage suitable for powering electronic devices.
The main advantages of SMPS over traditional linear power supplies are efficiency and compactness. Linear power supplies dissipate excess energy as heat, which reduces their efficiency, especially when there is a significant voltage drop across the regulator. On the other hand, SMPS operates at high frequencies, allowing for higher efficiency and reduced heat dissipation, making them smaller and lighter.
SMPS is widely used in various electronic devices such as computers, televisions, smartphones, routers, and many other consumer electronics, as well as in industrial applications and power distribution systems. The efficiency and versatility of SMPS have made it a preferred choice for many modern power supply applications.