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The Eight Disadvantages of Switching Power Supplies You Don't Know

Article Source:Kinri Energy | Author:Kinri Energy | Issuing Time:2024.03.27
As an efficient, lightweight, and multifunctional power solution, switch mode power supplies are widely used in various electronic devices and systems. However, like any technology, switch mode power supplies are not flawless. In addition to their unique advantages, they also have some undeniable drawbacks. This article will focus on the challenges that switching power supplies may face in certain specific scenarios.



Electromagnetic interference (EMI):

The high-frequency switching operation of switching power supplies may cause electromagnetic radiation, which can affect surrounding electronic devices and communication systems. In some scenarios that are sensitive to electromagnetic interference, such as wireless communication systems or precision instruments, it can have certain impacts. There are also some switch power supplies that are not designed properly or have poor working conditions, which can lead to electromagnetic compatibility issues, making them more prone to interference and causing equipment failures and communication interruptions.

Output ripple:

The output of a switching power supply is usually accompanied by some ripples, namely fluctuations in the output voltage. Although modern design can minimize this ripple, in applications that require extremely high output voltage quality, such as some medical equipment, laboratory equipment, communication base stations, etc., these fluctuations may be considered unacceptable. Some data shows that the typical output ripple level of a switching power supply is several hundred millivolts.

Complexity:

Compared to linear power supplies, the design of switch mode power supplies is more complex and requires more electronic components and control circuits. This increases the cost of manufacturing and maintenance. Some high-performance switching power supplies may contain dozens of electronic components, which increases the difficulty of maintenance for non professionals and also increases the cost of use.

Cost:

The high efficiency and advanced technology of switch mode power supplies often come with higher manufacturing costs. Compared to some low-power, low demand applications, the price of switching power supplies may significantly increase. In some market research, the price of switching power supplies may be two to three times that of linear power supplies.

Temperature sensitivity:

The performance of switch mode power supplies may be affected by environmental temperature. In high-temperature environments, they require additional cooling equipment to ensure system stability and longevity. In low-temperature environments, heating devices may be added to certain critical components, such as electrolytic capacitors or semiconductor devices, to maintain appropriate operating temperatures. This can prevent the freezing of electrolytic capacitors and the performance degradation of semiconductor devices.

Reliability issues:

Some key components in switching power supplies, such as electrolytic capacitors and switching devices, may have lifespan limitations. The data shows that the lifespan of these components typically ranges from several thousand to tens of thousands of hours, which requires regular maintenance and replacement.

Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC):

Due to electromagnetic interference issues, switch mode power supplies require additional design and testing to ensure compliance with electromagnetic compatibility standards. This increases the development time and cost of the product.

Maintenance complexity:

Due to its high complexity, fault diagnosis and maintenance of switch mode power supplies may require professional knowledge and equipment. This increases the difficulty of troubleshooting and repairing.

Overall, the widespread application and undeniable advantages of switch mode power supplies make them an indispensable part of modern electronic systems. However, while we admire it to the fullest, it is equally crucial to approach its limitations rationally. By gaining a deeper understanding of the characteristics and potential drawbacks of switch mode power supplies, we can better select and design power solutions to ensure optimal performance and reliability in different applications. I hope that the discussion in this article can provide you with a clearer perspective and help you make wise decisions in practical use.