In recent years, there has been a noticeable improvement in efficiency across computing and consumer electronics, particularly in AC/DC conversion. With standards like 80 PLUS, Climate Savers, and Energy Star 5, engineers are now recognizing that both AC/DC and DC/DC power systems require optimization. The average efficiency of AC/DC systems hovers around 65%, whereas DC/DC systems achieve an average efficiency of 80%. This discrepancy naturally leads to a focus on AC/DC systems; however, it's crucial to revisit DC/DC systems to identify innovative ways to boost efficiency further.
The role of DC/DC systems in computing, communication, and consumer electronics cannot be overstated. They are responsible for converting, managing, and distributing power to essential components like graphics cards, processor chips, and memory. As these components face increasing performance demands, the need for greater efficiency becomes paramount. Recent research has explored advancements in MOSFETs and cutting-edge thermal packaging techniques to enhance the efficiency of existing switching circuits and power transistor devices.
Selecting the right power components, especially on-board synchronous buck converters, can drastically improve power density, efficiency, and thermal performance in new platforms. For instance, if 500,000 servers were fully compliant with 80 PLUS energy regulations, the resulting energy savings would be enough to power more than 377,000 homes. This highlights the immense potential for energy conservation through technological innovation.
Circuit design and loss analysis are key areas where improvements can be made. The buck or synchronous buck circuit is a critical component in all low-voltage DC/DC power management systems. The primary power loss in these circuits stems from the switching and conduction losses of the MOSFET. A typical voltage regulator module (VRM) can be found in any desktop computer, providing over 25A of current at 1.2V under full load. In this setup, one MOSFET operates in the main or high-side position, while two parallel MOSFETs are placed in the flywheel or low-side position. With a 12V input stepped down to a 1.2V output, the duty cycle is 10%. This means the high-side MOSFET regulates to reduce switching losses, while the low-side MOSFET pair minimizes RDS(ON) to reduce conduction losses.
Figure 4 VR11.1 (Intel motherboard power supply specification) VCORE tube efficiency comparison
As shown in Figure 4, the efficiency graph was derived from a desktop power rectifier module phase column. These four curves represent the results of two different MOSFET devices tested at 300kHz and 550kHz. The graph illustrates efficiency across the entire load current range. Notice how the latest devices show a 1.5% efficiency improvement at full load (30A). Similarly, when the load is light (15A), an efficiency gain of 0.69% is observed. Integrating across the entire load range, using the latest MOSFET devices can reduce average power loss by 8% to 10% compared to today’s common solutions. Even at the higher switching frequency of 541kHz, system efficiency remains above 80% under partial load and exceeds 70% under full load. However, as the switching frequency increases further, switching losses rise dramatically.
The optimal operating frequency for most DC/DC converters is between 250kHz and 300kHz. At these frequencies, switching and conduction losses are manageable, and the ripple output to the load remains sufficiently low. While efficiency is higher below 250kHz, the voltage output might be too low to effectively power the Pentium chipset.
This same principle applies to laptop processor power supplies, gaming consoles, and even set-top boxes in consumer electronics. Although the currents involved are smaller, every milliwatt saved contributes to a global impact in addressing environmental concerns. Small improvements in numerous areas collectively yield significant benefits.
Thus, revisiting DC/DC systems presents a unique opportunity to push efficiency boundaries further. By leveraging advancements in MOSFET technology and thermal management, we can continue to drive progress in power management systems, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable future.
Electric pole, also known as a telephone pole or telegraph pole, is a tall structure used to support overhead power lines and other utilities, such as telephone and cable lines. These poles, typically made of wood, metal or concrete, are installed along roadsides, in residential and rural areas to deliver electricity and other services to homes and businesses. The height and design of poles can vary depending on the specific requirements of the utility company and the location of the poles.
Electric Pole,Distribution Steel Pole,Utility Pole,Electricity Pole
JIANGSU HONGGUANG STEEL POLE CO., LTD. , https://www.hgsteelpoles.com