Power Integrations Introduces New MinE-CAP IC to Reduce AC-DC Converters by Up to 40%

     Power Integrations has released the MinE-CAP IC for high power density, universal input AC-DC converters. The new IC can halve the size of the high-voltage bulk electrolytic capacitors required for offline power supplies, enabling up to 40% smaller adapters. MinE-CAP devices also greatly reduce inrush current, which helps eliminate NTC thermistors, improves system efficiency, and reduces heat dissipation.

     "The MinE-CAP will be a game-changer for compact chargers and adapters," said Chris Lee, Director of Product Marketing at Power Integrations. Electrolytic capacitors are bulky, take up a large portion of the internal volume, and often limit the form factor options for adapter designs. Especially the minimum thickness. MinE-CAP IC allows designers to use mainly low voltage rated capacitors in a large portion of the energy storage, which allows the size of these components to shrink linearly with voltage. USB PD technology provides the market for the widespread adoption of small 65W chargers With a huge push, many companies are trying to reduce the size of flyback transformers by increasing the switching frequency. The MinE-CAP offers greater volume savings than doubling the switching frequency, while also effectively improving system efficiency. "

     MinE-CAP devices utilize the small size and low RDSon of PowiGaN™ GaN transistors to actively and automatically connect and disconnect various parts of the bulk capacitor network based on AC input voltage conditions. Designers using the MinE-CAP can choose to use the minimum high voltage rated bulk capacitors required for high AC input voltages and distribute most of the energy storage to low voltage capacitors, which are protected by the MinE-CAP until low AC input voltages. until needed. This approach dramatically reduces the size of the input bulk capacitors without affecting output ripple, operating efficiency, or requiring a transformer redesign.

     Traditional power conversion solutions use smaller transformers by increasing the switching frequency, thereby reducing power supply size. The innovative MinE-CAP IC not only dramatically reduces the overall size of the power supply, but also reduces component count, reduces EMI, and avoids the challenges of increased transformer/clamping losses associated with high-frequency designs. Its applications include smartphone chargers, home appliances, power tools, lighting and automobiles.

     Bhaskar Thiagaragan, Sales Director, Power Integrations India, said: "MinE-CAP ICs support a wide range of input voltages and are suitable for use in almost all regions. In India, our designs are typically designed for input voltages ranging from 90VAC to 350VAC, and based on that Set up adequate surge derating. Engineers here often complain about the need to use various expensive high-voltage capacitors. MinE-CAP drastically reduces the number of high-voltage energy storage components and insulates the low-voltage capacitors from large fluctuations in grid voltage, thereby Greatly enhances durability while reducing system maintenance and product rework.”

     Housed in a tiny MinSOP-16A package, the new devices work seamlessly with Power Integrations' InnoSwitch™ family of power ICs and require minimal external components. The MinE-CAP MIN1072M IC is available now and can be ordered at any time from PI offices and authorized distributors for $1.75 in 10,000-unit quantities. At the same time, two new Design Example Reports (DERs) were introduced, both featuring MinE-CAP ICs and Power Integrations' InnoSwitch3-Pro family of PowiGaN ICs (model INN3370C-H302). DER-626 is a 65W USB PD 3.0 power supply with 3.3V - 21V PPS output for mobile phone/laptop chargers. DER-822 is a 60W USB PD 3.0 power supply for USB PD/PPS power adapter designed using INN3379C-H302.