Almost everyone today uses a device such as a power adapter. But what is it and why is it needed? The article describes power supplies. We will consider the purpose of these devices, their characteristics and types.
Power adapter and its purpose
Let's try to define this device. An adapter, or power supply, is an electronic device designed to generate an output voltage of a given magnitude and power. Household adapters convert the alternating electric current of the network into direct, necessary for various types of equipment. In the CIS countries, the standard of electric networks is accepted: 220 V with a frequency of 50 Hz, however in other countries these parameters may be different. Accordingly, the power adapter released for such a country will differ in operating input voltage. And why are such blocks needed? Almost all electronic equipment has an operating voltage in the range of 3-36 volts (sometimes there may be exceptions). After all, the operating range of most semiconductor components is set exclusively at low voltage. This is due to the fact that such elements are characterized by small overall dimensions, emit a small amount of heat during operation and have a small energy consumption.
A power adapter is needed to provide this technique with operating voltage. It turns out to be much more economical for the equipment to manufacture a power supply than to develop a device that is powered directly from a 220 V network. For such devices, you need powerful, large-sized radiators. As a result, the size and price of such products will increase significantly.
Adapter classification
First of all, power supplies can be divided into two main groups: external and built-in. From the name it is easy to understand that the latter are in a single case with the main device. A good example of such an adapter is the power supply unit of a personal computer, in which the aforementioned device, although it is allocated in a separate unit, is located in a common housing. An external power supply is a constructive independent unit. For example, a charger for a mobile phone, laptop and more. Another of the characteristics that distinguish adapters is manufacturing technology. From this point of view, there are transformer and electronic (pulse) power supplies. The first are characterized by large size and weight, simplicity, reliability, low cost and easy repair. Pulse devices, on the contrary, have small overall parameters and low weight, but at the same time they are durable and stable in operation.
Types of Power Supplies
There are many private solutions for the execution of power supplies. They will differ in the output voltage, current , etc. The power adapter (universal) is also available, which is capable of outputting voltages of several different values. Such devices can power various equipment. Universal blocks have a mechanism for switching the rated output voltage on the case, and can also have interchangeable plugs of various types. Recently, a USB power adapter is very popular. A variety of devices that can be charged via a USB cable can be connected to such a unit.
Conclusion
Thanks to a high-quality adapter, the equipment receives the required supply voltage, and stability and the duration of its operation depend on this.