AC/DC ICs

We Offer Solutions for Converting AC Into DC Voltages

However, if the end device is accessible to touch, or if there are further cables coming from it, there is no way of avoiding an isolated solution. In most cases, in such a situation, an isolating converter topology (flyback converter) is used. This topology needs a transformer for the energy coupling, as well as a feedback about the state of the secondary side, by way of an isolated element, such as an optocoupler, or by way of an additional primary winding of the transformer. In the latter case, the state of the secondary side can be determined by the return voltage of the transformer.

Something all the approaches of the AC-DC converter design have in common is the method of chopping the AC current (in most cases 50Hz), and transferring the energy at higher frequency (mostly 60-130 kHz). This makes it possible to work with a perceptibly smaller converter. Guidelines both worldwide and local aimed at energy efficiency have largely done away with both the old 50Hz converters as well as the capacitor power units with degrees of efficiency of 25%, replacing them with AC-DC converter designs with 70-90% efficiency.

CODICO offers solutions for converting an AC voltage into one or more DC voltages via a complete power supply, ready-to-use module or integrated ICs and provides the support needed to make the customers’ concepts into successful reality, from advice in choosing the right topology and the modules required, to proposals for circuit arrangements, and on to analyses of the customers’ circuits. Long years of experience and close co-operation with leading manufacturers and hugely experienced R&D at our laboratory in Munich mean we can help customers with fast and effective design.