In almost all power supply market segments, manufacturers are working to increase efficiency, higher power density and cost reduction. Power supply efficiency is supported by legislation like the Ecodesign Directive 2009/125/EC and is a key criterion when selecting a power supply.
The EcoDesign Directive is currently targeted towards higher volume consumer related products but many manufacturers of professional electronic products voluntarily follow the same guidelines. OEMs seek to increase performance of their end equipment and need power supplies that dissipate less heat and take up less space.
Several methods to improve efficiency include developing new topologies, improved power devices, control ics and magnetic component designs entering the market, availability of new materials and the application of digital control loops.
Read more about the trends driving power supply developments.
