Designing Efficient Power Supplies with LinkSwitch TNZ
Introducing LinkSwitch TNZ: Revolutionizing Power Supplies for Smart Homes and Home Appliances |
| As a Senior Marketing Manager at Power Integrations, I am excited to introduce the latest innovation in power supply technology - LinkSwitch TNZ. This highly efficient offline power supply switcher is designed to help engineers create compact and efficient power supplies for smart home and home appliance applications. |
Key Features of LinkSwitch TNZ |
| LinkSwitch TNZ is a highly integrated IC that combines the functions of a power supply switcher and a lossless zero-crossing detector. This allows engineers to design simple and efficient power supplies without the need for custom transformers. |
| The device features two high-voltage pins rated at 1000V, which enable direct interface with the AC line. This provides a logic signal that can be used by the microcontroller or other control circuits to make smart decisions based on the synchronization of the AC line. |
Design Flexibility and Topology Options |
| The LinkSwitch TNZ can be used in a variety of topologies, including non-isolated buck, buck-boost, and flyback applications up to 18 watts. This flexibility allows engineers to choose the best topology for their specific application. |
| For example, a non-isolated buck design can be used for low-power applications, while a flyback design can be used for higher-power applications up to 18 watts. |
Reducing Standby Consumption with Active X-Capacitor Discharge |
| The LinkSwitch TNZ also features active X-capacitor discharge, which can help reduce standby consumption in appliance applications. This is particularly useful for devices that require large X-capacitors at the input but must meet safety regulations. |
Design Tools and Resources |
| To support engineers in their design efforts, we offer a comprehensive set of design tools, including design example reports, reference design kits, and support in our PI Expert Suite of design tools. These resources cover a range of power levels from half a watt to 10 watts and include both non-isolated and isolated power supplies. |
Conclusion |
| The LinkSwitch TNZ is a game-changing device that enables engineers to create compact, efficient, and smart power supplies for smart home and home appliance applications. With its high level of integration, design flexibility, and topology options, this device is poised to revolutionize the world of power supplies. |
| Power Electronics |
Power electronics is a branch of electrical engineering that deals with the application of electronic devices and circuits to control and convert electrical energy. |
| Background |
The need for efficient and reliable power conversion and control systems has led to the development of power electronics. The field has evolved over the years, driven by advances in semiconductor technology, particularly the introduction of thyristors (such as silicon-controlled rectifiers) in the 1950s and power transistors in the 1960s. |
| Key Components |
Power electronic devices include power diodes, thyristors (such as SCRs and triacs), power MOSFETs, IGBTs, and power modules. These components are used to build a wide range of power electronic systems, including power supplies, motor drives, and renewable energy conversion systems. |
| Applications |
Power electronics has numerous applications in various fields, such as: |
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• Industrial automation and control systems |
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• Renewable energy conversion (solar, wind, etc.) |
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• Electric vehicles and hybrid electric vehicles |
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• Medical devices and equipment |
| Impact |
The increasing demand for energy efficiency, reliability, and flexibility has driven the growth of power electronics. The field continues to play a crucial role in enabling technological advancements in various industries, from consumer electronics to industrial automation. |
| Introduction |
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Power supplies are a crucial component in many electronic devices, and designing efficient power supplies is essential to ensure reliable operation, minimize energy waste, and reduce environmental impact. The LinkSwitch-TNZ (TNZ) family of ICs from Power Integrations offers a highly efficient and flexible solution for designing power supplies.
The TNZ family is a line of single-stage, AC-DC power conversion ICs that integrate a high-voltage power MOSFET with a controller in a single package. This integration enables designers to create compact, low-component-count designs while maintaining high efficiency and reliability.
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Key Features of LinkSwitch-TNZ:
- High-voltage power MOSFET integration (up to 725 V)
- Single-stage, AC-DC conversion
- Low component count
- High efficiency (up to 94% @ 230 VAC)
- Compact package options (e.g., eSIP-16C, eDIP-20B)
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| Designing with LinkSwitch-TNZ |
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When designing a power supply using the TNZ family, several key considerations must be taken into account. These include:
- Selecting the appropriate TNZ part number based on input voltage range, output current, and package type
- Designing the AC-DC conversion stage to optimize efficiency and thermal performance
- Implementing proper EMI mitigation techniques to ensure regulatory compliance
- Ensuring reliable start-up and fault handling mechanisms are in place
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To simplify the design process, Power Integrations offers a range of tools and resources, including:
- LinkSwitch-TNZ product selector guide
- Design software (e.g., PI Expert, PI Toolbox)
- Evaluation boards and demo kits
- Detailed application notes and technical documentation
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| Efficiency and Thermal Performance |
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The TNZ family is designed to deliver high efficiency across a wide range of operating conditions. By leveraging the integrated power MOSFET, designers can optimize the AC-DC conversion stage for maximum efficiency and minimum heat generation.
Key factors influencing thermal performance include:
- Input voltage range and output current
- MOSFET selection and gate drive configuration
- Heatsink design and thermal interface materials
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To further enhance efficiency and reliability, designers can implement various techniques, such as:
- Frequency jittering for reduced EMI
- Soft-start mechanisms for gentle output voltage ramp-up
- Dynamic thermal management to adjust operating frequency based on temperature
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| Conclusion |
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Designing efficient power supplies with LinkSwitch-TNZ ICs from Power Integrations requires careful consideration of several key factors, including part number selection, AC-DC conversion stage design, EMI mitigation, and thermal performance optimization.
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By leveraging the tools, resources, and expertise provided by Power Integrations, designers can create compact, reliable, and efficient power supplies that meet the demands of modern electronic devices.
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| Q1: What is LinkSwitch TNZ? |
LinkSwitch-TNZ is a family of power supply ICs from Power Integrations that provides a simple and efficient way to design offline power supplies. |
| Q2: What are the benefits of using LinkSwitch TNZ? |
The benefits of using LinkSwitch-TNZ include high efficiency, low component count, small size, and ease of design. It also provides a cost-effective solution for designing power supplies. |
| Q3: What types of applications can use LinkSwitch TNZ? |
LinkSwitch-TNZ is suitable for a wide range of offline power supply applications, including chargers, adapters, and open-frame power supplies, as well as industrial and commercial power supplies. |
| Q4: What is the typical efficiency of LinkSwitch TNZ-based designs? |
The typical efficiency of LinkSwitch-TNZ-based designs can be up to 90% or higher, depending on the specific design and application. |
| Q5: How does LinkSwitch TNZ achieve high efficiency? |
LinkSwitch-TNZ achieves high efficiency through a combination of features, including hysteretic control, which reduces switching losses, and a high-voltage process that minimizes conduction losses. |
| Q6: What are the key components required to design a power supply with LinkSwitch TNZ? |
The key components required to design a power supply with LinkSwitch-TNZ include the IC itself, an inductor, a capacitor, and a few resistors. |
| Q7: Can LinkSwitch TNZ be used for both AC-DC and DC-DC conversion? |
No, LinkSwitch-TNZ is primarily designed for offline AC-DC conversion. For DC-DC conversion, other ICs from Power Integrations may be more suitable. |
| Q8: How does the hysteretic control in LinkSwitch TNZ work? |
The hysteretic control in LinkSwitch-TNZ works by switching on and off at a fixed frequency, with a small hysteresis window to minimize switching losses. |
| Q9: What is the maximum output power that can be achieved with LinkSwitch TNZ? |
The maximum output power that can be achieved with LinkSwitch-TNZ depends on the specific IC and design, but it can range from a few watts to several tens of watts. |
| Q10: Are there any specific safety considerations when designing with LinkSwitch TNZ? |
Yes, as with any power supply design, proper safety considerations such as isolation, creepage distance, and overvoltage protection must be taken into account when designing with LinkSwitch-TNZ. |
| Rank |
Pioneer/Company |
Contribution |
Description |
| 1 |
Power Integrations |
Inventor of LinkSwitch TNZ |
Developed the first highly integrated, high-voltage power conversion IC. |
| 2 |
Balogh Lajos (Texas Instruments) |
Improved Switch-Mode Power Supply Efficiency |
Developed a new control technique that significantly increased the efficiency of switch-mode power supplies. |
| 3 |
Analog Devices (Linear Technology) |
High-Efficiency Power Conversion ICs |
Produced high-efficiency power conversion ICs that enable compact, reliable, and efficient power supplies. |
| 4 |
Infineon Technologies |
High-Voltage Power Conversion ICs |
Developed high-voltage power conversion ICs that provide reliable, efficient, and cost-effective solutions for a wide range of applications. |
| 5 |
NXP Semiconductors |
Smart Power Management |
Developed smart power management ICs that enable efficient, reliable, and compact power supplies for various applications. |
| 6 |
STMicroelectronics |
High-Efficiency Power Conversion |
Produced high-efficiency power conversion ICs that provide reliable, efficient, and cost-effective solutions for a wide range of applications. |
| 7 |
Toshiba Corporation |
High-Voltage Power Conversion ICs |
Developed high-voltage power conversion ICs that provide reliable, efficient, and cost-effective solutions for various applications. |
| 8 |
ON Semiconductor |
Power Management Solutions |
Offers a wide range of power management solutions, including high-efficiency power conversion ICs and smart power management devices. |
| 9 |
CUI Inc. |
High-Efficiency DC-DC Converters |
Developed high-efficiency DC-DC converters that provide reliable, efficient, and cost-effective solutions for various applications. |
| 10 |
Ericsson Power Modules |
High-Efficiency Power Conversion ICs |
Produced high-efficiency power conversion ICs that provide reliable, efficient, and cost-effective solutions for a wide range of applications. |
| Introduction |
The LinkSwitch-TNZ is a high-performance, highly integrated power conversion IC designed for use in energy-efficient, low-standby-power applications. This article provides detailed technical information on designing efficient power supplies with the LinkSwitch-TNZ. |
| Key Features |
- High efficiency: up to 90% at full load
- Low standby power: less than 10mW
- Highly integrated: includes controller, driver, and protection circuits
- Wide input voltage range: 85-265VAC
- Flexible output options: buck, boost, flyback, and forward topologies
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| Block Diagram |
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| Pin Description |
| Pin Name |
Description |
| VIN |
Input voltage (85-265VAC) |
| DRAIN |
Power MOSFET drain connection |
| CS |
Current sense input |
| FB |
Feedback input (optional) |
| CTRL |
Control input (optional) |
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| Application Circuit Examples |
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| Design Considerations |
- Input filter design: to minimize EMI and ensure reliable operation
- Output filter design: to meet output voltage ripple and noise requirements
- Thermal management: to ensure reliable operation and prevent overheating
- EMI reduction techniques: to minimize electromagnetic interference
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| Design Tools and Resources |
- LinkSwitch-TNZ datasheet and user manual
- Application notes and design guides
- Simulation models (e.g. SPICE, PLECS)
- PCB layout guidelines and examples
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