Many people use DC to DC converters without knowing their true value or purpose. DC to DC converters are used to transform direct current (DC) voltage from one voltage level to another. The most common use for a DC to DC converter is to amplify or invert input DC voltages and then output them as negative voltages.

Not all devices run on alternating current (AC); there are many digital devices such as computers, hi-fi stereos, radios and televisions which rely on direct current. Also, these devices need multiple voltage levels such as 5V, 12V and 15V to function. It is not convenient to convert power from AC to DC all the time, as AC-DC conversion leads to a substantial power loss compared to DC-DC. So, the best strategy is to convert AC to DC once, and then use a DC to DC converter to convert the DC into different voltage levels for various needs.

DC to DC converters are used in various types of industries, such as telecommunications, automotive and manufacturing. DC to DC converters are key components in many mobile communication devices, and are also used in commercial and military systems. DC-DC converters are frequently used in computer systems and portable electronic systems such as laptop computers, digital cameras, and personal digital assistants (PDAs).

What makes DC to DC converters special is the fact that they are small, lightweight and highly efficient power supplies. The DC to DC converter is able to receive low input voltages, and consume low power and this makes them ideal for use in all types of electronic devices. There are many types of DC to DC converter products. Some of these include:

• ATCA Bus DC-DC Converters – these are designed for Advanced Telecommunications Computing Architecture, and are one of the smallest dual input converters.

• High Voltage DC-DC Converters – these are two series of high voltage converters, with modules for monitoring, protection and communication facilities. This converter is designed for use with power factor correction (PFC) modules.

• Industry Standard Isolated DC-DC Converters – this converter has a power rating from 3 watts to 700 watts and offers a wide choice of output voltage and current options. Mounting options include through-hole or surface mount termination.

• Low Power Isolated Industrial DC-DC Converters – these converters cover power outputs from 3 watts to 30 watts, and are aimed at applications with 12 V and 24 V input requirements. This converter offers different output voltage and current combinations.