Switched-Mode Power Supply (SMPS) is a power supply device that converts electrical energy through high-frequency switching technology. It is widely used in various electronic devices and industrial systems. Different application scenarios have different voltage requirements for SMPS, so it is important to understand the voltage range of SMPS and choose the appropriate voltage specifications. This article will explore the voltage issues of SMPS from multiple aspects to help you better understand and apply this power supply device.

What is a switching power supply (SMPS) and what is its operating voltage range?

Why is choosing the right voltage so important for SMPS?

How to choose a suitable SMPS voltage?

Future development and application trends of SMPS

What is a switching power supply (SMPS) and what is its operating voltage range?

The main function of a switching power supply is to convert input voltage (usually AC or DC) into a stable output voltage. SMPS has the advantages of high efficiency, small size, and low heat loss. It is widely used in various devices that require power conversion, such as computers, televisions, industrial control systems, etc.

Input voltage range of SMPS

The input voltage range of SMPS varies depending on the model and application, and is mainly divided into the following categories:

AC input voltage: SMPS can usually accept a wide range of AC input voltage. The common input voltage range is 100V to 240V (AC). This wide voltage range allows SMPS to adapt to the power standards of different countries and regions around the world.
DC input voltage: Some special SMPS also support DC input voltage. The common DC input voltage range is 12V, 24V, 48V, etc. DC input SMPS is mostly used in devices or systems that require DC power supply, such as communication equipment and certain industrial applications.
For example, 24V power supplies are often used in communication equipment, industrial control, and some large electronic equipment. Especially in applications involving automation equipment, robotic systems, and solar-powered equipment, 24V voltage supply can provide stable and reliable power support.

SMPS output voltage range

The output voltage of SMPS depends on the type of equipment it serves. Common output voltage specifications are:

5V: used for small electronic devices, such as mobile phone chargers, routers, etc.

12V: commonly used in desktop computers, LED light strips and other devices.

24V: commonly used in industrial control, 3D printers, watering machines and other high-power devices. For example, in an automation control system, a 24vdc power supply can provide stable power support for sensors, actuators, and motors to ensure efficient operation of the system.
48V: Applicable to scenarios with high voltage requirements such as communication base stations and power equipment.
In general, the input and output voltage ranges of SMPS are very flexible, and users can choose the appropriate model according to the voltage requirements of the device.

Why is choosing the right voltage so important for SMPS?

Selecting an SMPS with the right voltage specification is not only related to the normal operation of the device, but also directly affects the safety and efficiency of the system. Incorrect voltage selection may cause the device to not work properly, or even damage the device or cause a safety accident.

Risk of voltage mismatch

If the voltage required by the device does not match the output voltage of the SMPS, the following problems will occur:
Voltage is too high: If the output voltage of the SMPS is higher than the rated voltage of the device, the device may overheat, burn, or even cause a fire. For example, connecting a 5V device to a 12V power supply may cause the device to be damaged instantly.
Voltage is too low: If the output voltage is lower than the device requirement, the device will not work properly, and may have problems such as difficulty in starting and unstable performance. For example, a 12V desktop computer power supply will not start when connected to a 5V power supply.
Therefore, it is crucial to choose the right voltage, especially in precision equipment that requires stable voltage output.

Practical application scenarios of voltage selection

Taking some typical application scenarios as an example, choosing the correct SMPS voltage specification is particularly important:

School network laptop charging cabinet: 24V SMPS is usually used because multiple laptops need to be charged at the same time, and a higher voltage can provide stable power output.
Embroidery machine: The drive system of the embroidery machine has high requirements for voltage stability. 24V SMPS is often used in its motor drive part to ensure that the equipment does not experience voltage fluctuations when running at high speed.
3D printer: The heating bed and print head of the 3D printer usually require a higher voltage, and 24V is a common choice to ensure the rapidity and stability of heating.
Watering machine: In the automatic watering system, 24V SMPS is also widely used to drive pumps and solenoid valves to ensure the continuity and reliability of automatic watering.

How to choose a suitable SMPS voltage?

In order to ensure the safe and efficient operation of the equipment, choosing the appropriate SMPS voltage specification is a very critical step. So in practical applications, how to choose the right voltage according to the needs?

Determine the voltage requirements of the device

First, the user needs to clarify the voltage requirements of the device used. Most electronic devices will indicate the required operating voltage on their instructions or device labels. According to the power and current requirements of the device, select an SMPS that can provide the corresponding voltage and power.

For example:

If the rated voltage of the device is 12V, then choosing an SMPS with an output of 12V is the best solution.
For higher-power devices, such as 3D printers or industrial equipment, it is usually recommended to use a 24V or 48V SMPS to provide more powerful power support.

Consider current requirements

After selecting the appropriate voltage, you also need to consider the current requirements of the device. Even if the voltage matches, if the SMPS cannot provide enough current, the device will still not work properly. The formula for calculating current demand is:

Current = Power / Voltage
For example, a device with a power of 100W, running at a voltage of 12V, requires a current of:

Current = 100W/12V = 8.33A
Therefore, it is necessary to select a 12V SMPS with a current that can meet 8.33A.

For higher power devices, a 24V SMPS may be a more suitable choice because it can provide higher voltage while reducing current demand, thereby reducing cable losses and heating.

Select brand and quality

There are many SMPS brands and models available on the market, and the reliability and quality of the brand should be considered when choosing. Brands like NVVV provide high-quality and stable SMPS products, which are widely used in various industrial and commercial scenarios to ensure the long-term stable operation of the equipment.

Future development and application trends of SMPS

With the continuous advancement of technology, the design and application of SMPS are also evolving. The future SMPS will be more efficient, energy-saving, and play an important role in a wider range of fields.

High-efficiency and energy-saving design

In the future, switch mode power supply will further improve its energy conversion efficiency by adopting more advanced switching technology and control chips to reduce energy loss and improve power utilization. For example, modern and efficient MPPT (maximum power point tracking) technology has been applied to SMPS in solar power generation systems to achieve higher energy utilization.

Wider application areas

With the rapid development of industrial automation, smart home, Internet of Things and other fields, the application of SMPS will be more extensive. For example, in smart home systems, 24V SMPS can be used to drive automatic curtains, smart lighting systems and other devices. In industrial automation, 48V SMPS is widely used in power drive and control systems of large equipment.

Conclusion

The switching mode power supply (SMPS) is a highly flexible and efficient power supply device with a wide range of input and output voltages, suitable for a variety of application scenarios. From 5V small electronic devices to 24V and 48V industrial applications, SMPS plays a vital role in modern electronic and power systems. When choosing a suitable SMPS voltage, users need to select the appropriate input and output voltage specifications according to the specific needs of the equipment, while considering the current and power requirements to ensure efficient operation and safety of the system.

By choosing the right brand and high-quality products, users can ensure the stability and long life of the SMPS during use. For example, NVVV brand SMPS products are widely praised in the market for their high reliability and wide application, and are a trustworthy choice.