Switch Frequency: Understand & Duty in SMPS

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Switching frequency in a switch-mode power supply (SMPS) refers to how often the power supply switches its output on and off, which can significantly affect the size and efficiency of transformers used. Higher switching frequencies, such as 500 kHz, allow for smaller transformers and reduce issues like power supply hum, compared to traditional 50/60 Hz mains power supplies. An efficient transformer typically operates at a 50% duty cycle, optimizing performance. Some SMPS designs may not even utilize a transformer, relying instead on high-frequency operation for stabilization without excessive heat. Understanding these concepts is crucial for grasping the functionality of modern power supplies.
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It is very basic and makes me angry because i did not understand exactly what does switching frequency means and why is the duty if this in SMPS?
Cany one explaine me clearly?
 
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I don't fully understand your question but I will reply. Generally the higher the frequency the physically smaller a transformer can be built. A tranformer operates most efficiently at 50% duty cycle. Of course the SMPS in question may not even use a transformer. Please elaborate.
 
Averagesupernova said:
I don't fully understand your question but I will reply. Generally the higher the frequency the physically smaller a transformer can be built. A tranformer operates most efficiently at 50% duty cycle. Of course the SMPS in question may not even use a transformer. Please elaborate.
What does switching frequency means and I saw some products which display in their manual like switching frequency is 500kHZ etc..what exactly it specifies. Please I am new this topics.
 
A mains power supply works at 50Hz (or 60Hz). This involves a great big transformer and many sweaty components. ASMPS produces a high frequency and then can use a small transformer (that's the way it is with magnetic components). In addition, a SMPS can give you stabilisation, also without getting hot. The switching frequency is the frequency that the power supply uses to do its 'transforming' (which may not actually involve a transformer at all) - but that's for a future discussion.

If you use 500kHz, you won't have problems like power supply hum!
 
Here is a very old unregulated (1960's) dc to dc converter (switching mode power supply) circuit using two 2N3055 transistors to generate about 300 volts from a 6 volt battery. This circuit uses a standard 60-Hz transformer, and the switching frequency (determined by the resistor and transformer inductance) is several hundred Hz.

http://www.wbnoble.com/WN_articles/CD-ignition-SK.pdf

This evolved into the Delta Mark Ten kit about 1968. The Delta kit had a pot core transformer instead of a standard 60-Hz transformer.

http://www.selectric.org/delta/index.html

Bob S
 
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