The Challenge of Power-Supply Design (.PDF Download)

When do you get around to designing the power supply for your new product? Before, after, or during product development? Whatever your approach, you probably need an ac-dc supply, perhaps with some dc-dc converters, to provide some of the multiple dc voltages needed in a sophisticated design.

It used to be so easy. All it took was a step-down transformer, a rectifier, and a big filter capacitor followed up with an IC linear regulator. This is no longer possible as power-supply requirements have become tougher over the years. Today’s power supplies must be super-efficient, generate minimal EMI, meet stringent regulations, and affordable.