What is a DC power adapter?
A DC power supply is a common type of power supply that provides power to a device to either charge it, power it, or both. The energy is initially collected from the electrical network (AC) 100-240V alternating current and is transformed by this power source into direct current, at a much lower value, normally between 3V and 24V, although it could be somewhat higher.
There are also times when they are called transformers but this is a mistake. A transformer is a device that transforms an alternating current into another alternating current, reducing or increasing it, but does not change the frequency and therefore collects the alternating current and delivers it in alternating current, unlike direct current feeders that deliver it in alternating current. keep going.
What types of DC feeders exist?
Due to the way energy is converted, there are two types of feeders:
- DC Linear Power Supply: Linear power supplies regulate the output voltage by reducing the input voltage using electronic components such as transformers and voltage regulators. They are known for their stability and low electromagnetic interference (EMI), but their energy efficiency is lower. Summary:
- It supplies output voltage which is a linear function of the input voltage.
- It is simpler and has less noise, but may be less efficient than a switching power supply or feeder.
Within linear feeders there are two types:
Regulated linear power supply: Similar to a linear power supply, but with voltage regulators that maintain a constant output voltage even when the input voltage varies and/or the load consumption increases, within limits. This ensures a stable and controlled output.
Unregulated linear power supply: Provides an output voltage that varies depending on the input voltage and load. They are common in applications where a small variation in the output voltage can be tolerated.
- Switching power supply: These power supplies convert the DC input voltage to a DC output voltage by using switching electronic components, such as transistors and diodes, at high frequencies. They are known for their energy efficiency and compact size, making them suitable for applications where high efficiency and lower heat dissipation are required. Summary:
- Energy conversion is done by rapidly switching electronic components
- It is generally more compact and lighter in contrast to a linear feeder.
- It is currently used more frequently due to its lower cost.
Although there are other types of power supplies, whether switching or linear, that are used for more specific purposes, we call those simpler domestic power supplies purely feeders. A clear example of a power supply that we cannot consider a power supply are laboratory sources whose possibilities and functions are much more sophisticated. You can see them here: Adjustable Laboratory Power Supply
The power adapters, due to their format or design, can be of these two types:
Wall power supplies: The device is contained within a small box and connects directly to the mains socket. They are used when the amount of energy to be supplied is not very large, and the weight of the feeder does not represent a problem for hanging on the wall. Typical examples of this type of power supply are those that we usually use to charge mobile devices, power routers, etc.
Desktop power supply: When we need to provide higher currents, the weight of the power supply could not be supported by a plug or socket. In this case, the feeder is designed so that it is contained within a box from which a cable emerges that connects to the network base on the wall. In this way we can place the feeder on a table or desk. Typical of this type of power supply are those used for laptops, screens, etc.
Common DC Feeder Types
Different types of AC plug: They may vary in shape and size of the plug depending on the region or country, such as type A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I, J, K, L, M, N and more, depending on local standards.
There is also a wide variety of connectors used on the market depending on the device: DC connectors vary depending on the device and brand, and can be cylindrical, coaxial, mini USB, micro USB, USB-C, among others. There are power supplies with multi-pin connectors that allow them to be compatible with a large number of devices,
There is a wide variety of voltages and currents available, depending on the needs of each device, so universal power supplies are manufactured in different powers or intensities and that provide variable voltages that can be selected through a small switch. In practice, in universal feeders, not only is universality of voltage usually sought by providing the feeder with a multi-voltage system, but also a multi-plug system is added that allows a greater number of possible devices to be powered.
USB power supply: We also call it colloquially USB charger. These power supplies use a standard USB connector, such as USB-A, USB-B, micro USB, or USB-C, to connect to electronic devices. They are common for charging mobile devices, tablets, cameras, headphones and other devices that support charging via USB.
Wireless power supplies: This type of power supply uses wireless charging technology, such as induction charging, to power compatible devices without the need for physical cables or plugs.
DC to DC power supplies: Although their function is to power, we call this type of source a DC/DC converter and you can see this type of converter in its corresponding section:
DC-DC Converters - General Purpose
DC-DC Converters - Car
Outside of direct current feeders there are alternating current feeders. In reality, it is an electrical transformer contained in a box similar to that of a direct current feeder. Since these are not direct current feeders, since they only transform AC current into AC, we cannot include them in this section. They are called alternating current feederspower supplies or wall transformers and you can see them at this link AC Power Supplies
