WE TRANSFORM POWER
Our glossary for DC/DC converters
Buck converter
A buck converter (step down converter) converts the input voltage Vin from a higher voltage level into a lower output voltage Vout.
Buck-boost converter/ step up and step down converter
These converters are able to convert an input voltage Vin to a higher or lower output voltage Vout (also well-known as step up and step down converter).
Output current
Typical maximum output current of the DC/DC converter under normal operating conditions
CC/CV Charging characteristics
Specifies the constant current to constant voltage characteristic of a converter. The voltage is controlled constantly in the nominal load range, however in the overload range the current is controlled constantly. This behavior is used in battery charging applications.
DC-Transformer = DC-Converter
Old name of Demke DC/DC converter and was renamed to DC-Converter. The DC-Converter simply converts one DC voltage into another and provides the variable current so that power can be transmitted. A DC converter includes all relevant components such as regulation, power switches and EMI filters to transmit power with maximum quality.
No load input current
The typical input current of the converter without connected load. Measured at the nominal input voltage.
Forward converter
All DC/DC converters of our 400-series are highly integrated and are on the highest technological level. These converters are single-phase forward converters with an active clamp reset. Hence, we are able to realize smallest dimensions with highest efficiency.
Generated AC-ripple on the supply (BW=20MHz)
AC component at switching frequency superimposed on the input voltage. Measuered in Millivolt (mV) Peak to Peak with a Bandwidth Limitation at 20 MHz.
MTTF
Statistical mean time to failure.
The probability of a failure is calculated as Px(t) = 1-e{-t/MTTF}
Switching frequency
Working frequency of the power supply. This switching frequency generates an alternating voltage across the internal inductors.
Softstart
The Output voltage is increased slowly. This lowers the Inrush currend and prevents unintentional tripping of input fuses.
Efficiency
The energy conversion efficiency describes the ratio of output power against input power. This value is given by physical constraints smaller than 1. The conversion efficiency specified by Demke Electronic is measured at the terminals of a converter.
Efficiency at medium loads
Ratio of the output power, compared to the input power at 50% of the nominal output current.
Efficiency at full loads
Ratio of the output power, compared to the input power at the nominal output current.
Efficiency at light loads
Ratio of the output power, compared to the input power at 10% of the nominal output current.
Short circuit proof
Short-circuit-proof converters adjust the output current to a safe short-circuit current in case of overload or short circuit.
Non-isolated
The positive input and output voltage are both referenced to the same potential.
Passive loads
Purely resistive load
Thermal shutdown
If the temperature inside the DC/DC converter exceeds the thermal shutdown threshold, the converter is deactivated. The converter is automatically switched on again as soon as the temperature has fallen below the hysteresis of the switch-off threshold.
Heatsinking (metal case)
During operation of the DC/DC converter, the generated heatloss is dissipated via the metal housing to the ambient.
