Maybe, it´s worth to ask a question, whether it makes sense to use a switch-mode regulator for such a low current? For sure yes, at least because of two reasons. If we need to create 3.3V from for example 12V, then at a current of 0.5A a power loss of 4.35W appears at a classic linear regulator. That´s already a quite considerable power, able to heat up a device - especially at smaller enclosures and a dense population on a PCB.
Another reason is energy saving - especially at battery powered devices. Switch mode power supplies (SMPS) have a “genial” feature, that thanks to their high efficiency we use practically whole power drawn from a source, i.e. if we need say 5V/0.5A from a 15V source - we won´t take from it 0.5A but only approx. 0,17-0,18A.
Novelty of company Traco Electronic - series TSR 0.5 is by its function very similar to well known, proven DC/DC regulators TSR1 or TSRN1. The main difference is in a smaller allowed current and a feelingly lower price . That ´s why this series is very suitable for any application, where a current of 0.5A will be sufficient. A big advantage can be a wide operating temperatures range from -40 to +90°C (power derating 5%/K at temperature above 80°C). Maximum input voltage of 32V enables a usage even at power supplying from various alternative energy sources with a big input voltage fluctuations.
This novelty is so far available in a version with 5V output voltage (TSR 0.5-2450) and soon there will be another.
In case of interest even in non-stock types, please contact us at info@soselectronic.com.
- high efficiency up to 97%
- excellent regulation
- range of operating temperatures -40 to +90°C
- shortcut and over-temperature protection
- compact SIP3 package
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What´s the typical efficiency of type TSR 0.5-2450?
