Summary

In these articles concerning the basics of AC-DC conversion, we explained the following topics:

We would like the reader to understand the following points as basic items:

• There are transformer and switching systems for providing AC-DC conversion.
• In the AC-DC conversion process, AC is converted to DC by rectifying/smoothing.
• In the transformer system, the smoothed out DC output can be used as is; however, if accuracy and stability are of paramount importance, the output can be subjected to a DC-DC conversion to transform it to a desired DC voltage.
• The switching system, handling DC with a peak voltage value more or less equivalent to the AC voltage, requires high voltage tolerant parts.
• In the switching system, conversion to DC after rectification/smoothing, is the same as the regular switching DC-DC conversion, with the exception that the input voltage is high.
• The design of an AC-DC conversion circuit involves a transformer design process.
• In the on-board design, the use of an AC-DC power supply IC provides several advantages.
• Conversion circuits, subject to high voltages, require adequate protection and safety measures.

In the actual design process, the basic approach involves the question of how to select a power supply IC for AC-DC conversion and how to use it effectively. At the outset of the design process, it is important to have a firm grasp the ways in which AC-DC conversion differs from DC-DC conversion.