LEARNING UNIT 1: DETERMINE IoT SYSTEM
HARDWARE PECIFICATION
LO 1.4. Selection of Power Supply Unit
A power supply unit (PSU) is an essential component that converts electrical energy
from a source into usable power for various parts within an electrical device. Its
primary function is to provide the accurate voltage, frequency, and current required
by the load (the device it powers). Power supplies can be standalone units or
integrated into the appliances they control.
1.4.1. Different types of Power Supply
a) DC power Supply
DC power Supply provides a constant voltage output. It is commonly used in
electronic circuits, microcontrollers, and digital devices. Examples include battery-
powered devices and regulated 5V DC supplies.
b) AC power supply
AC power supply generates alternating voltage. It is used for household appliances,
lighting, and motors. Alternating current changes direction periodically. Examples
include wall warts (plug-in adapters) and bench power supplies.
1.4.2. General Classification of Power supply
a) Functional Classification
Based on the purpose and functionality we have:
• Linear Regulated/Unregulated Supplies: Linear supplies maintain a
constant output voltage, while unregulated supplies do not.
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• Switched Mode Power Supplies (SMPS): These use switching regulators to
convert electrical power efficiently. Topologies include DC-DC converters,
AC-DC converters, flyback converters, and forward converters
b) Packaging Classification: How the power supply is physically packaged
• Wall Wart: External plug-in adapters.
• Bench Power Supplies: Used in labs and workshops.
• Battery Chargers: For recharging batteries.
• Isolation Transformers : Provide electrical isolation.
c) Power Conversion Method: How energy is converted
• DC-DC Converters: Transform DC voltage levels.
• Inverters: Convert DC to AC.
• Generators: Produce AC power.
• Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS): Ensure continuous power during
outages.
1.4.3. Characteristics that impact power-supply operation
a) Power Rating: The power rating of a supply indicates its maximum output power
capacity. It’s crucial to match the power supply’s rating with the load requirements
to ensure stable operation.
b) Undervoltage Lockout (UVLO): UVLO prevents the power supply from
operating when the input voltage falls below a specified threshold. This feature
safeguards against unreliable operation during low-voltage conditions.
c) Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC): EMC ensures that the power supply
doesn’t emit excessive electromagnetic interference (EMI) and is immune to external
EMI. Compliance with EMC standards is essential for reliable system performance.
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e) Dynamic Response: A power supply’s ability to respond quickly to load changes
impacts system stability. Fast dynamic response minimizes voltage fluctuations
during load transients.
f) Efficiency: Efficiency measures how effectively the power supply converts input
power to output power. Higher efficiency reduces wasted energy and heat
dissipation.
g) Holdup Time: Holdup time refers to the duration a power supply can maintain
output voltage during input power loss. Longer holdup time prevents system
shutdown during brief power interruptions.
h) Inrush Current: During startup, power supplies experience high inrush currents.
Proper design limits inrush to prevent damage to components and ensure stable
operation.
i) International Standards: Compliance with safety and performance standards
(such as UL, CE, or IEC) ensures reliable and safe power-supply operation across
different regions.
j) Isolation: Isolation protects sensitive components by electrically separating input
and output. It prevents voltage spikes and noise from affecting the load.
k) Load Regulation: Load regulation ensures that the output voltage remains stable
under varying load conditions. Tight load regulation is essential for sensitive
electronics.
l) Remote On/Off: Remote on/off control allows external devices (such as
microcontrollers) to enable or disable the power supply remotely.
m) Peak Current Periods: Some applications require short bursts of high current.
The power supply must handle these peak current demands without compromising
stability.
n) Peak Power: Peak power refers to the maximum power the supply can deliver
momentarily. It’s essential for handling transient loads.
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o) Overcurrent Protection: Overcurrent protection prevents damage due to
excessive load currents. It typically involves current-limiting circuits.
r) Overtemperature Protection: Overtemperature protection shuts down the supply
if it exceeds safe operating temperatures. It prevents thermal damage.
s) Overvoltage Protection: Overvoltage protection guards against voltage spikes
that could harm connected devices.
t) Soft Start: Soft start gradually ramps up the output voltage during startup,
reducing stress on components.
These characteristics collectively impact the reliability, safety, and performance of
power supplies in various applications. Always consider them during power-supply
selection and design.
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