Fifth generation of IC family for high-efficiency power supplies launched

Power Integrations has announced TinySwitch-5, extending the output power of the most popular family of integrated off-line switcher ICs to 175W. The new device achieves up to 92% efficiency using basic diode rectification and optocoupler feedback.

With over six billion units sold, TinySwitch ICs are widely employed in bias and auxiliary supplies in appliance, computing, communications, industrial and medical applications. Designers have long appreciated the products' simplicity and high efficiency, particularly at light load. These ICs were the first to feature the company's EcoSmart technology, which has saved an estimated 200 terawatt-hours of electricity since 1998 by slashing standby power waste.

TinySwitch-5 switcher ICs feature an advanced control engine which seamlessly handles switching frequency and power delivery to maximise efficiency, even at light loads. This allows power supplies that easily meet the light-load power consumption limit of 300mW, set by the European Commission Energy-related Products (ErP) Directive 2009/125/EC, while delivering up to 220mW output power for display, controls and communications functions. An improved thermal package means that these ICs can deliver up to 75W without a heatsink, and line under and over-voltage protection ensures robustness for use in countries with unstable mains power.

Silvestro Fimiani, director of product marketing at Power Integrations said: "TinySwitch has become the gold standard for small power supplies because of its efficiency and ease of use. With TinySwitch-5, designers can scale up to 175W at maximum power, while easily achieving 220 mW of output and meeting the needs of appliance manufacturers subject to the European Union ErP-mandated 300mW standby power rule."