What is a DC DC converter and how exactly does it work? |
Posted: July 14, 2020 |
Before we get to the question of what is a DC-DC converter, we’re going to take a look at the term DC itself. To put it simply, DC means direct current, which is a flow of electric charge that moves in a constant direction, as opposed to alternating current, whose direction constantly shifts (this video explains it in detail). While AC is used in most of your everyday consumption of electricity, direct current is also significant, namely in larger power supplies for electronic systems, motors and any device that uses batteries. With this little introduction, let’s jump to the main question of this article…
What is DC-DC converter?Quite simply, it is a type of electronic device (or, more precisely, a circuit), which transforms the voltage from the DC source into another voltage. There are situations that demand increasing or decreasing voltage. Too much power could be harmful to a particular device while too little power won’t enable it to run properly. A good example of this is the use of car battery to power external devices (especially those that are not designed for multi-voltage). The 12V in the car battery might be too powerful or too weak to power a certain device, which is where the DC-DC converters come in. They will draw the power from the battery and then either reduce it or step it up, allowing the device to function without flaw.
How does the conversion work?The majority of DC-DC converters will come in the so-called switched version. The energy that enters these devices will be temporarily stored and then released at a different voltage. The whole process happens in the following way:
Another method of voltage conversion is the one using magnetic fields in the transformer or inductor. By setting the duty cycle (the on/off time ratios), the power can be controlled with ease. There are also the so-called linear DC to DC converters, which differ from the more widespread switching regulators. A linear component (typically a resistive load) acts as the output regulator. As a result, the voltage can only be reduced, not increased.
DC/DC converters are indispensable in many industriesRanging from space industry, land transport and military use all the way to thekitchen appliances, heating and cooking - there are myriads of uses for these devices. In fact, life would be much harder without them for a lot of us. These devices deserve some appreciation! Can you name some instances in which these units are used in everyday life?
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