Switch Mode Power Supply (SMPS) - definition
Switch Mode Power Supply (SMPS) - definition
Switch-mode power supplies (Switching Mode Power Supply. Switching Mode Power Supply, SMPS) is an electronic power supply, which converts electrical energy from one voltage level to another by rapidly switching semiconductor elements, such as Transistors, and energy storage elements - mainly Coils and Capacitors. It works on the principle of periodically switching the current flow on and off, which allows power conversion at a much higher efficiency than traditional linear power supplies.
The primary purpose of a switching power supply is to stabilise the output voltage despite variations in input voltage or load. In contrast to linear systems, which regulate the voltage by dissipating excess energy in the form of heat, a switching power supply controls the average voltage by means of pulse Width Modulation (PWM Pulse Width Modulation), which translates into lower energy losses and higher efficiency, often exceeding 85-90%.
Switch-mode Power Supplies come in a variety of topological configurations, such as buck (voltage reduction), boost (boosting voltage), buck-boost (both up- and down-voltage), as well as lowering voltage), or in more complex structures with galvanic isolation, such as topologies flyback, forward, half-bridge i full-bridge. Their choice depends on the power requirements, insulation, the voltage range and frequency of operation.
Power Supplies of this type are widely used in computer equipment, telecommunications, medical equipment, automation, lED lighting systems and the automotive industry. Their small size, low weight, their ability to operate over a wide range of input voltages and their high efficiency make them a standard in modern electronic designs. The design of SMPSs requires consideration to be given to issues relating to the emission of electromagnetic interference (EMI), stability of the control system and effective heat dissipation.
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