Have you ever thought how numerous components of a computer system receive power supply? The answer is power converter.

A power converter is a device that performs the three functions as given below:

1.AC to DC conversion

2.DC to DC conversion

3.Power supply

How a Power Converter Works

Knowing how a power converter works is important. A power converter assembly consists of numerous electronic components that enable power conversion. Computer components work on DC voltage, but electricity home supplies ranges from 100V to 120V in North America, some parts of South America, Japan and Taiwan. For the rest of the world, it spans between 200V to 220V. The power converter unit receives electricity supply from the main source and converts AC voltage into DC voltage of 12V and 5V, respectively. Most computer peripherals utilize this power range.

However, some small computer components require phantom power of 3.3V. To meet this requirement, power unit converts 5V DC to 3.3V DC. Once the specified voltage is generated, it is relayed to specific components through the power rails comprising varying volt capacity. It can be 12V rail or 5 V rails.

Power Converter and High Power Requirements

Power supply function has to mitigate any probability of overheating, particularly for 12V rails. The wattage for a rail is calculated through multiplying volts by amperes. The result of this equation should not exceed maximum resistance capacity for the rail. Most power units relay 18 amperes current on 12V rail. However, graphic cards and central processors have higher power requirements. To meet this requirement, while preventing overheating, multiple 12V rails are used for power relay simultaneously.

Switched-mode power supply (SMPS) method is extensively utilized in power converters to increase efficiency. This method allows high-speed electronic switching by eliminating the use of transformers.

Power Converter: Modular Power Supply (MPS)

While assembling a computer system’s power components, most hardware engineers face a tough time due to multiple power cables. Although cabling runs on color identification system, identifying the correct one is far from easy.

Further, modular power supply systems have evolved to customize the output supply from a power converter. A modular power supply unit has isolated output modules to:

1.match specific power requirements

2.prevent overheating

3.increase air flow

4.reduce fan obstructions due to multiple cables

CyPower is an authorized distributor of reputed power component manufacturers. For accurate and up-to-date information on power converters, visit www.cypower.com.