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Switched Mode Power Supplies (SMPS) rapidly switch between full power and no power to produce a desired voltage, regulating power input and output. There are four classifications of SMPS, each improving performance in different applications. SMPS can be built or purchased online or in retail outlets.
SMPS stands for Switched Mode Power Supply which is a power supply that produces a desired voltage by rapidly switching between full power and full power. The average of these two voltages produces the power needed for a device.
In many cases, these power supplies are used to convert from utility-supplied AC power to regulated DC power used by devices. The switching that occurs in a SMPS occurs at such a high frequency that power to the device is not completely lost.
For example, an automated motor may be connected to a switched-mode power supply and the motor will start when the SMPS is turned on. Then the SMPS will cut power and restore it almost immediately, allowing the engine to continue firing. While there will be some decrease in power delivered to the motor when power is cut off, this will simply slow the motor down during the starting process. When the SMPS turns back on, the engine will continue to crank.
This process may seem rather useless for stopping and starting power to a motor or any device, but it allows for better control and monitoring of electrical current than a power supply that is constantly running at the maximum desired voltage. Because power can fluctuate or increase, a power supply that is constantly running at the desired voltage can cause a burst with a power spike, while a SMPS will regulate the power flowing through it and cut power to the motor, reducing the likelihood of a blowout.
There are four classifications of switched-mode power supplies:
AC to DC – referred to as offline DC power supply
DC to DC – referred to as a voltage converter
DC to AC – referred to as a power inverter
AC to AC – referred to as an AC power source or frequency changer
Each of the different types of switched-mode power supplies can improve the performance of the applications in which they are used by better regulating power input and output. There are many engineering firms in business today that work with SMPS and power electronics, which helps them supply the correct devices for customers’ uses, and helps manufacturing and other facilities control power usage.
There are many sites available on the internet to assist in building switched mode power supplies for those who have custom applications or would like to try their hand at building a SMPS. They can also be purchased online or in retail outlets around the world.
