Summary of Offline Switchers Come in Tiny Packages
This article discusses the growing demand for compact offline AC/DC switchers in small form-factors for applications like USB adapters, LED drivers, and mobile chargers. It highlights solutions from CUI Inc., Phihong USA, RECOM Power, and XP Power, specifically detailing CUI's ultra-compact 5 W wall-plug adapter (EPSA050100U-I38-EJ) which features a tiny footprint, Level V efficiency, and robust safety protections.
Parts used in the Compact Offline Switcher Project:
- CUI EPSA050100U-I38-EJ 5 W wall-plug adapter
- Integrated USB connector
- AC input voltage range (90 to 264 VAC)
- Output rated at 5 VDC at 1 A
When engineers consider offline switchers for systems ranging from telecom and datacom equipment to PCs and industrial supplies, they mainly think of bulky AC/DC front-end solutions in a variety of forms such as bricks, modules, and open-frame. However, there are many applications where offline switchers powered by AC mains are needed in small packages or must occupy a small space on the motherboard. Some examples: USB adapters to power media players, e-readers, and GPS devices; and low-cost, offline LED drivers in lighting applications with high power factor to meet international requirements for total harmonic distortion (THD), EMC, and safety. Offline switchers are also used as standby power supplies in PCs and laptops, as well as in compact chargers for smartphones and other mobile devices. The point is that there are many applications where offline AC/DC switchers are needed in small form-factors.
This article will explore solutions from CUI Inc., Phihong USA, RECOM Power, and XP Power. Besides shedding some light on the properties of compact offline switchers, it will also identify key features and benefits of specific products available to engineers.
Compact external switchers
CUI, Inc., for instance, has readied an ultra-compact 5 W wall-plug adapter with integrated USB connector (Figure 1), the EPSA050100U-I38-EJ. With a footprint of just 1.61 x 1.18 in. (41 x 30 mm), the adapter is among the industry’s smallest AC/DC power supply to integrate USB connection, making it suitable for small mobile devices. In addition, it offers level V energy-efficiency compliance for green design requirements with a no-load power draw of less than 0.1 W. Rated for an output of 5 VDC at 1 A, the high-density EPSA050100U-I38-EJ operates at AC input voltages ranging from 90 to 264 VAC. Safety marks include UL/cUL, PSE, and LPS (limited power source). What is more, the external adapter also meets EN55022 Class B limits for conducted and radiated EMI and provides protection for overvoltage, overcurrent, and short-circuit conditions.
When engineers consider offline switchers for systems ranging from telecom and datacom equipment to PCs and industrial supplies, they mainly think of bulky AC/DC front-end solutions in a variety of forms such as bricks, modules, and open-frame. However, there are many applications where offline switchers powered by AC mains are needed in small packages or must occupy a small space on the motherboard. Some examples: USB adapters to power media players, e-readers, and GPS devices; and low-cost, offline LED drivers in lighting applications with high power factor to meet international requirements for total harmonic distortion (THD), EMC, and safety. Offline switchers are also used as standby power supplies in PCs and laptops, as well as in compact chargers for smartphones and other mobile devices. The point is that there are many applications where offline AC/DC switchers are needed in small form-factors.
This article will explore solutions from CUI Inc., Phihong USA, RECOM Power, and XP Power. Besides shedding some light on the properties of compact offline switchers, it will also identify key features and benefits of specific products available to engineers.
Compact external switchers
CUI, Inc., for instance, has readied an ultra-compact 5 W wall-plug adapter with integrated USB connector (Figure 1), the EPSA050100U-I38-EJ. With a footprint of just 1.61 x 1.18 in. (41 x 30 mm), the adapter is among the industry’s smallest AC/DC power supply to integrate USB connection, making it suitable for small mobile devices. In addition, it offers level V energy-efficiency compliance for green design requirements with a no-load power draw of less than 0.1 W. Rated for an output of 5 VDC at 1 A, the high-density EPSA050100U-I38-EJ operates at AC input voltages ranging from 90 to 264 VAC. Safety marks include UL/cUL, PSE, and LPS (limited power source). What is more, the external adapter also meets EN55022 Class B limits for conducted and radiated EMI and provides protection for overvoltage, overcurrent, and short-circuit conditions.
For more detail: Offline Switchers Come in Tiny Packages
- What are common applications for compact offline switchers?
Common applications include USB adapters for media players, low-cost offline LED drivers, standby power supplies for PCs, and compact chargers for smartphones. - Can the CUI EPSA050100U-I38-EJ operate on global AC voltages?
Yes, it operates at AC input voltages ranging from 90 to 264 VAC. - How small is the footprint of the CUI EPSA050100U-I38-EJ?
The adapter has a footprint of just 1.61 x 1.18 inches or 41 x 30 mm. - Does the CUI EPSA050100U-I38-EJ meet energy efficiency standards?
Yes, it offers Level V energy-efficiency compliance with a no-load power draw of less than 0.1 W. - What safety marks does the CUI EPSA050100U-I38-EJ possess?
Safety marks include UL/cUL, PSE, and LPS (limited power source). - Does the adapter provide protection against electrical faults?
Yes, it provides protection for overvoltage, overcurrent, and short-circuit conditions. - Which EMI limits does the external adapter meet?
The adapter meets EN55022 Class B limits for conducted and radiated EMI. - Who are the manufacturers featured in this article?
The article explores solutions from CUI Inc., Phihong USA, RECOM Power, and XP Power.
