Glossary
Whether you are looking for technical terms, abbreviations or specialist terminology related to DC/DC converters – you’ll find the right definition here. We explain briefly and clearly what we mean.
Buck converter
A buck converter (or step-down converter) converts the input voltage Vin into a lower output voltage Vout.
Buck-boost converter
These converters can convert an input voltage Vin into either a higher or lower output voltage Vout.
Output current
The output current is the electrical current that the DC/DC converter provides at its output. It is measured in amperes (A).
CC/CV charging characteristic
Defines the constant-current to constant-voltage characteristic of a converter. In the normal load range, the voltage is regulated, while in the overload range, the current is regulated. This behaviour is used in battery charging applications.
DC-Transformer = DC-Converter
Former terminology for Demke DC/DC converters. The earlier designation “DC Transformer” was later replaced by “DC Converter”. A DC converter simply converts one DC voltage into another and provides the variable current required to transfer power. A DC converter includes all relevant components, such as control circuitry, power switches and an EMI filter, to transfer power with maximum efficiency and quality.
Single-phase forward converter
All DC/DC converters in our 400 series are highly integrated and feature state-of-the-art technology. These converters use a single-phase forward converter topology with active demagnetisation. This enables extremely compact designs with maximum efficiency.
Input ripple voltage (BW = 20 MHz)
Switching frequency superimposed on the input voltage. Measured in millivolts peak-to-peak with a 20 MHz bandwidth limit.
MTTF
Statistical mean time to failure of a device.
The probability of failure is calculated according to Px(t) = 1 − e…{-t/MTTF}
No-load input current
The typical input current of the converter with no load connected, measured at the nominal input voltage.
Switching frequency
The operating frequency of the power supply. At this switching frequency, an alternating voltage is generated across the internal inductors.
Soft start
Soft start refers to the controlled start-up of a DC/DC converter when it is switched on. The output voltage is gradually increased in a controlled manner to reduce high inrush currents and stress on the connected components.
Efficiency
Efficiency describes the ratio of output power to input power. Due to physical losses, this value is always less than 1. The efficiency specified by Demke Electronic is measured at the converter’s terminals.
Converter efficiency at partial load
Ratio of output power to input power at 50% of the nominal output current.
Converter efficiency at full load
Ratio of output power to input power at the nominal output current.
Converter efficiency at light load
Ratio of output power to input power at 10% of the nominal output current.
Short-circuit protected
Short-circuit-protected converters limit the output current to a safe level in the event of an overload or short circuit.
Non-isolated
The input and output circuits are electrically connected. The positive input and output voltages share the same reference potential.
Passive loads
Purely resistive load
Thermal shutdown
If the internal temperature of the DC/DC converter exceeds the thermal shutdown threshold, the converter is switched off. It automatically switches back on once the temperature has fallen below the shutdown threshold, taking the hysteresis into account.
Heat-dissipating metal housing
During operation of the DC/DC converter, heat losses are generated and dissipated directly into the surrounding environment through the metal housing.
Any questions?
Can’t find the term you’re looking for or still have a technical question? Get in touch with us – we’ll be happy to help.